Job Description
Job DescriptionDescription:
The Sterile Processing Team Lead is responsible for overseeing daily operations in the sterile processing department, ensuring the effective and compliant decontamination, inspection, assembly, sterilization, and distribution of instruments and equipment. The Team Lead provides guidance to sterile processing technicians, maintains high standards of quality and safety, and supports the department manager in training, audits, and process improvement.
Requirements:
Duties and responsibilities
1. Instrument and Equipment Processing
a. Receive, inspect, and clean used instruments, supplies, and equipment.
b. Decontaminate instruments, supplies and equipment by following established procedures (e.g., manual or automated cleaning) to remove biological materials and contaminants.
c. Assemble and package instruments and supplies according to established guidelines, ensuring correct labeling and sterilization techniques.
2. Sterilization
a. Perform sterilization procedures using various methods such as steam and/or gas sterilization (autoclaves, VHP, etc.).
b. Monitor sterilization cycles, ensuring accurate parameters (time, temperature, pressure) and documentation of cycle parameters.
c. Conduct routine maintenance on sterilization equipment to ensure optimal performance.
3. Inspection and Quality Control
a. Inspect all instruments, supplies and equipment for signs of damage or wear, ensuring functionality before they are returned to use.
b. Ensure that instruments and equipment meet established cleanliness and sterilization standards.
4. Inventory Management
a. Maintain an inventory of sterile supplies and report any shortages or damaged items to the team leader or supervisor.
b. Restock sterile processing and supply areas with necessary items for daily operations.
5. Safety
a. Adhere to infection control policies and procedures, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe handling of hazardous materials.
6. Documentation and Record-Keeping
a. Document all sterilization processes accurately, including dates, times, and equipment used, to ensure compliance with Vivex procedures.
b. Record equipment routine maintenance and repair logs.
7. Operations & Workflow Oversight
a. Coordinate and monitor the daily workflow of sterile processing staff.
b. Ensure timely processing and delivery of surgical trays, instruments, and equipment.
c. Monitor inventory levels and initiate restocking or ordering as needed.
d. Address and troubleshoot issues related to equipment, workflow, or instrument availability.
e. Leadership & Staff Support
f. Serve as a resource and mentor for sterile processing technicians.
g. Assist in onboarding, training, and cross-training staff.
h. Provide real-time coaching and informal performance feedback.
i. Communicate scheduling needs and staff assignments to management.
8. Quality & Compliance
a. Ensure adherence to Vivex policies and procedures, infection control standards, and regulatory guidelines (e.g., FDA, AATB).
b. Participate in internal audits and quality assurance processes.
c. Identify process gaps and collaborate on continuous improvement initiatives.
d. Maintain accurate documentation and records (e.g., sterilization logs, biological indicators).
e. Communication & Coordination
f. Liaise between processing rooms, equipment and facilities, materials management and sterile processing for urgent requests or equipment issues.
g. Escalate concerns and updates to the Sterile Processing Supervisor or Manager.
h. Attend team huddles and departmental meetings.
9. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and
responsibilities to this job at any time.
Education:
High School diploma or equivalent
Sterile Processing Certification preferred, but not required
Experience:
2-5 years of experience in Sterile Processing, Sterilization, Tisue Bank or Hospital environment.
Skills and Abilities
Knowledge of infection control principles, sterilization techniques, and proper use of sterilizing equipment.
Strong attention to detail and ability to perform repetitive tasks.
Ability to lift, carry, and move heavy equipment and supplies.
Strong organizational and time-management skills.
Effective communication skills and ability to work individually and as part of a team.
Working Conditions
Majority of the work is performed standing.
The use of heavy machinery in enclosed areas can lead to a loud working environment.
Exposure to chemicals and biohazardous materials.
Technicians will be required to work in cleanroom environments, wearing appropriate protective equipment.
Weekend work will be scheduled as needed.
Physical requirements
Ability to stand for extended periods of time.
Ability to lift equipment and/or instrument trays up to, but not limited to, 50 lbs.
Manual dexterity and the ability to handle small instruments and delicate equipment.
Direct reports
No direct reports.
Vivex Biologics is an equal opportunity employer (EEO) and expressly prohibits any form of workplace discrimination and/or harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, transfers, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
Vivex Biologics complies with the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) which prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals with disabilities who, with or without reasonable accommodation, can perform the essential functions of a job.