Sterile Processing Supervisor

• Coordinates and oversees daily operations between the Operating Room (OR) and Central Sterile Services Department (CSS) to support efficient surgical case flow.

• Assists with projects and process improvement initiatives in alignment with organizational policies, goals, and expectations.

• Promotes customer service and satisfaction by addressing and resolving staff and physician concerns.

• Maintains knowledge of cleaning, assembling, packaging, and sterilizing surgical instruments and equipment in accordance with industry standards.

Standards and Compliance

• Follows current standards and guidelines from:

  • Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD)

  • Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI)

  • International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management (IAHCSMM)

• Demonstrates awareness of personal and workplace safety at all times.

• Uses evidence-based practices (EBP) while performing duties.

• Complies with facility safety policies, including those related to bloodborne pathogens and communicable diseases.

• Maintains knowledge of aseptic techniques and basic microbiology to understand disease transmission and the importance of sterile supplies in patient care.

• Attends training related to new sterilization practices and microbiology developments affecting sterile supply operations.

Operational Coordination

• Acts as a liaison between the Sterile Processing Department (SPD) and the Operating Room (OR) to maintain workflow.

• Develops and maintains positive working relationships with clinical nurse leaders and surgeons.

• Collaborates with Clinical Team Leaders, SPD staff, and surgical resources coordinators to resolve operational issues.

• Identifies and recommends instrument purchases to prevent workflow conflicts.

• Works with the SPD Educator to develop and deliver in-service training programs.

Instrument and Supply Management

• Assesses required supplies for standard surgical procedures and prepares case carts.

• Maintains inventory and performs the following for instruments and patient care equipment:

  • Collection

  • Disassembly

  • Inspection

  • Cleaning

  • Disinfection

  • Reassembly

• Communicates with CSS staff prior to surgical cases to confirm instrument and supply needs.

• Ensures required supplies are available or provides alternatives when necessary.

• Makes recommendations regarding maintenance and updates of physician preference cards.

Customer Service and Communication

• Communicates effectively using strong interpersonal and professional communication skills.

• Serves, manages, and supports internal and external customers, including physicians, staff, and patients.

Professional Development

• Demonstrates commitment to ongoing professional development through education and training.

• Participates in educational programs and skill-building initiatives.

• Contributes to improvements in clinical care and workplace health.

Team Leadership and Mentorship

• Assists with orientation and training of new personnel.

• Serves as a mentor and preceptor for sterile processing technician students.

• Supports the development of new preceptors and team members.

• Encourages continuous learning and knowledge sharing across the healthcare team.

• Builds positive relationships across departments and disciplines.

Performance Improvement and Quality Initiatives

• Demonstrates knowledge of performance improvement tools and methodologies.

• Supports the integration of research and best practices into daily operations.

• Shares improvements and best practices with other units or across the healthcare system.

• Participates in task forces, committees, and departmental initiatives.

Operational Leadership

• Evaluates staff schedules and adjusts assignments based on departmental needs.

• Directs department workflow during off-shifts, weekends, or in the absence of leadership.

• Reports errors in real time to the SPD Manager, SPD Educator, and OR Surgical Technicians.

• Maintains a working knowledge of decontamination and sterilization equipment and can troubleshoot issues effectively.

• Models team-oriented behaviors and supports frontline employees.

• Serves as a resource for employees and internal/external customers.

Additional Responsibilities

• Performs other related duties as required.

• This job description represents a general overview of responsibilities and may not include all duties performed in the role.

MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: High School Diploma or GED.

• Experience: Minimum of 2 years of sterile processing experience.

• Certification: Sterile Processing Technician Certification (CBSPD or CRCST).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong oral and written communication skills.

• Proficiency with computer systems and technology.

• Ability to read, comprehend, and follow detailed instructions.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: Some college coursework or an Associate Degree.

• Experience:

  • 1–2 years of supervisory experience.

  • Experience as a Surgical Technologist.

• Certifications:

  • Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS)

  • Certified Healthcare Leader (CHL)

• Knowledge/Skills: Familiarity with instrument tracking systems such as SPM.