Description
Join St. Francis–Emory Healthcare, a 376-bed community-connected hospital in Columbus, GA, that blends cutting-edge care with hometown purpose. As part of the ScionHealth network, St. Francis has been recognized and awarded multiple high-performing honors by U.S. News & World Report, and received multiple disease-specific certifications from the Joint Commission, and was a rated Top Large Hospital in Georgia. St.Francis also delivers advanced heart,orthopedic, and women’s care services. At St. Francis, you will experience a culture of excellence where your work directly shapes the health of our community.
Job Summary
The Lead Sterile Processing Technician oversees daily operations of the sterile processing department to ensure the safe, timely, and efficient decontamination, sterilization, and distribution of surgical instruments and medical equipment. This role serves as the primary technical resource and liaison between sterile processing and other clinical departments, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and providing leadership to a team of certified and uncertified technicians.
Essential Functions
- Supervise and assign daily duties to sterile processing staff
- Ensure all processes meet regulatory standards (AAMI, AORN, TJC, OSHA)
- Perform quality checks and oversee documentation for biological and chemical indicators
- Act as the primary contact for resolving technical issues and coordinating with surgical services
- Provide training, mentoring, and performance feedback to team members
- Develop and maintain staff schedules, ensuring adequate coverage
- Monitor supply inventory and coordinate equipment maintenance
- Lead department participation in safety and performance improvement initiatives
- Facilitate onboarding and competency validation for new employees
- Serve as a role model for adherence to infection control and departmental procedures
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations
- Advanced knowledge of sterile processing standards and practices
- Skilled in team leadership, time management, and workflow coordination
- Strong communication skills with ability to interface across departments
- Proficient in tracking systems and technical equipment operation
- Demonstrated commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement
- Ability to handle stressful situations and maintain composure under pressure
Qualifications
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Completion of an accredited central sterile processing program preferred
Licenses/Certifications
- Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) or Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CBSPD) required
Experience
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in sterile processing or surgical services required
- Previous experience in a lead or supervisory role preferred