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The healthcare industry offers an excellent work environment known for its stability compared to other occupations.
One career path worth considering is becoming a sterile processing technician.
If you’re interested in pursuing this profession, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the requirements.
In the following sections, we will guide you through the process of becoming a sterile processing technician in New Jersey.
Article Table of Contents
Job Responsibilities and Skills of a Sterile Processing Technician in New Jersey
In New Jersey, obtaining a license is mandatory for securing your initial position.
While you don’t need to get certified right away, you need to do so within 3 years of employment.
The certification will not only allow you to practice but also give you the experience you need for the job.
As a sterile processing technician, your daily tasks will include:
- Conducting inventory checks
- Managing and monitoring the prevention of illness and infection
- Cleaning, sterilizing, packaging, and storing medical instruments
- Maintaining and repairing medical equipment
In addition to these tasks, it is beneficial to acquire additional skills such as:
- Strong organizational skills
- Problem-solving abilities related to the role
- Knowledge of medical terminology
- A solid understanding of aseptic techniques
It’s important to note that specific job responsibilities and required skills may vary depending on the employer.
Becoming a Sterile Processing Technician in New Jersey
Now let’s explore the process of obtaining certification as a sterile processing technician in New Jersey.
There are several manners in which you can reach this goal.
The simplest approach involves taking and successfully passing the three-hour national certification exam.
Various organizations offer certification exams in New Jersey, including the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA).
While the HSPA offers five levels of licensing, you only need to obtain the entry-level certification.
Subsequently, you will need to pass the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) certification exam.
Another option is obtaining certification through the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD).
To obtain the license, you must not only pass the exam but also possess one year of work experience.
Additional requirements include:
- Completing approximately 400 hours of lab experience
- Submitting the required fee
- Obtaining a high school diploma or GED
- Passing a background check and drug tests
- Successfully completing the licensing exam
Keep in mind that your sterile processing technician certification requires annual renewal.
Additionally, attending extra classes and workshops can help you stay updated on industry changes.
Training Programs for Sterile Processing Technicians in New Jersey
Enrolling in a school that offers a sterile processing technician program is the best way to achieve optimal results.
Such a program will provide you with the necessary knowledge and experience to obtain certification.
In New Jersey, there are several schools offering sterile processing technician programs.
To learn more about these programs, please refer to the information provided below.
Berkley College 
Berkley College provides a full-time, 12-month program for sterile processing technicians.
Not only that, but it has three NJ campuses, so you can pick the one closest to you.
During the program, you will get:
- In-depth knowledge of decontamination theory & techniques
- Clinical skills in a surgical processing environment
- Comprehensive knowledge of anatomy & physiology
- An understanding of legal & ethical health science practices
To get into the program, you have to meet the requirements below:
- Have a high school diploma
- Take a criminal background check
- Pass a physical evaluation
- Pass drug screening
- Hold up-to-date immunizations
Furthermore, the credits you get in this CRCST course can be added towards obtaining a Health Sciences associate degree.
Medical Career Institute and Marie’s Allied Health and Technical Institute 
The Medical Career Insitute (MCI) and Marie’s Allied Health & Technical Institute (MAHTI) provide reliable in-person sterile processing assistant programs.
The first school’s program lasts for 32 weeks.
Classes take place 4 times a week.
You can choose when to go to class, during the day or night as both types are offered
MAHTI has a program with a duration of 52 weeks.
You will need to attend class twice a week during the evening.
The main topics that are covered include:
- Anatomy & physiology
- Microbiology & infection prevention
- Decontamination and sterilization procedures
- Identification and proper handling of complex surgical instruments
The Americation Career and Training School 
The Americation Career and Training School provides an online program that lasts for 2 months,
The flexible schedule can be helpful if you are already employed.
During class, you will learn about:
- Microbiology
- Infection control
- Packaging and storage of medical instruments
- Inventory control and distribution
- Anatomy
- Physiology terminology
- Decontamination & sterilization of surgical instruments
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Berkeley College | 44 Rifle Camp Rd, Woodland Park, NJ 07424 |
| Medical Career Institute and Marie’s Allied Health and Technical Institute | 1543 NJ-27 Suite 14, Somerset, NJ 08873 |
| The Americation Career and Training School | 24 Commerce St #401, Newark, NJ 07102 |
Sterile Processing Technician Salaries in New Jersey
Once you have obtained your license, your goal will likely be to secure employment as soon as possible.
Fortunately, this should not be difficult, given that you are certified and possess ample experience.
If you are wondering about the potential earnings as a sterile processing technician, salaries in New Jersey average around $50,522 per year.
However, it’s important to note that several factors contribute to the actual salary, with your experience in the field being a significant factor.
As you gain more experience, you can expect higher pay.
Moreover, the medical field offers ample opportunities for career advancement, allowing you to progress in your professional journey easily.
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Jersey City | $53,922 |
| Union City | $53,922 |
| Hoboken | $53,922 |
| West New York | $53,922 |
| Paramus | $52,959 |
| Paterson | $52,913 |
| Clifton | $52,913 |
| Passaic | $52,913 |
| Bloomfield | $52,913 |
| Wayne | $52,912 |
Regional Salary in New Jersey
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlantic City-Hammonton, NJ | 70 | $46,790 | $22.5 | $60,360 | $35,970 |
| Trenton, NJ | 100 | $50,770 | $24.41 | $68,060 | $37,540 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where will I work in New Jersey as a sterile processing technician?
There are various healthcare facilities in New Jersey that hire sterile processing technicians, including:
- Hospitals
- Laboratories
- Doctors’ offices
- Clinics
- Dentist practices
How is the income for sterile processing techs in New Jersey compared to the salary at the national level?
In New Jersey, salaries are generally higher than those at the national level.
This is true for sterile processing technicians as well where the median annual paycheck is way above the annual median income.
Can I attend only online classes?
Yes!
Because the majority of the states don’t have strict requirements when it comes to certification.
However, you’ll have to figure out a way to complete the practice hour on your own.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician
Sterile Processing Technician by State