Sterile Processing Technician

At the Veterinary Referral Center of Central Oregon (VRCCO) you will become a vital member of a dynamic team dedicated to providing exceptional veterinary care. Our approach combines a commitment to compassionate individualized care with evidence-based practices ensuring strong connections between our staff and the patient-guests and pet parents we serve. Here you will discover a culture founded on teamwork compassion and going beyond expectationsleading to a fulfilling and impactful career in veterinary medicine.

Why Choose VRCCO

VRCCO is recognized as a leader in advanced pet care offering a diverse range of specialty and emergency services designed to meet the needs of our community. We currently provide dermatology internal medicine medical oncology surgery ophthalmology neurology physical rehabilitation urgent care and emergency services. To improve the experience for our patients and help support our amazing team we have created a purpose-built veterinary hospital campus with a 26000 sq. ft. facility to serve our community. As we work together to prioritize the well-being of our patient guests we are equally dedicated to our heroes (employees). We invest in competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits to support your health and well-being both now and in the future.

We are the only organization with Vet Cadets Childcare located at our flagship location and only a short drive from our Urgent Care facility. VRCCO has been Great Place To Work Certified since 2021. Come see the difference for yourself and be a part of our team. With abundant opportunities for continuing education and career advancement you can develop a long and successful career with us.

Position Overview:

As a Sterile Processor you will play a crucial role in maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and infection control in our facility. Your responsibilities will include sterilizing instruments and equipment preparing surgical packs conducting equipment and instrument maintenance writing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and training other employees to ensure the safe and effective operation of our hospital.

Essential Functions:

• Instrument Sterilization: Operate autoclaves ultrasonic cleaners and other sterilization equipment to clean and disinfect surgical instruments equipment and supplies according to established protocols.
• Surgical Pack Preparation: Assemble and prepare surgical packs with sterilized instruments and supplies ensuring accurate labeling and organization for easy accessibility.
• SOP Development: Draft review and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) related to instrument sterilization equipment maintenance and infection control. Collaborate with the medical team to ensure SOPs align with best practices and industry standards.
• Quality Control: Monitor the effectiveness of sterilization processes by performing routine quality checks biological and chemical indicator tests and maintaining accurate sterilization records.
• Equipment Maintenance: Regularly inspect clean and maintain sterilization equipment and machinery to ensure proper functioning and compliance with safety standards. Coordinate repairs or maintenance with relevant technicians as needed.
• Instrument Maintenance: Collaborate with veterinary technicians and medical staff to identify damaged or malfunctioning surgical instruments. Facilitate repairs replacements or maintenance to ensure instruments are in optimal condition for procedures.
• Inventory Management: Maintain an organized inventory of sterile supplies monitor stock levels and reorder as necessary to ensure availability of required items at all times.
• Training: Train new and existing staff members on proper sterilization techniques infection control practices instrument handling and equipment maintenance. Provide ongoing education to ensure adherence to protocols and safety measures.
• Collaboration: Collaborate closely with veterinarians veterinary technicians and other medical staff to meet the hospitals infection control and patient safety goals.
• Compliance: Stay updated on industry standards regulations and guidelines related to sterilization equipment and instrument maintenance. Ensure the hospitals practices align with these standards.
• Operating room transition: Assist with removal of surgical instrumentation from operating room. Help facilitate transition of operating room for subsequent patients.
• Emergency Support: Assist in emergency situations by providing sterile supplies and equipment as needed to support the medical team.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent; certification in sterile processing or related field is preferred.
• Previous experience in a veterinary hospital or healthcare setting is advantageous.
• Strong understanding of infection control principles and practices.
• Familiarity with various sterilization techniques equipment and chemical disinfectants.
• Basic knowledge of equipment and instrument maintenance.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for training and collaboration.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in documenting procedures and maintaining accurate records.
• Physical ability to lift and move heavy objects stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks.