Medical Equipment Preparers
Prepare, sterilize, install, or clean laboratory or healthcare equipment. May perform routine laboratory tasks and operate or inspect equipment.
SOC: 31-9093.00
Common Job Titles
- Central Service Technician (CST)
- Central Sterile Supply Technician (CSS Technician)
- Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST)
- Sterile Processing Technician (Sterile Processing Tech)
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeEvaluate sterilization processes and equipment performance against established healthcare standards in laboratory and healthcare settings, following regulatory requirements and infection control protocols.Proficient
- KnowledgeOrganize workflow and prioritize instrument processing schedules to meet surgical department demands and maintain optimal inventory levels.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate sterilization equipment including autoclaves, gas sterilizers, and ultrasonic cleaners following manufacturer specifications and safety protocols to ensure proper decontamination.Developing
- Hands-onPerform inspection and quality control testing of sterilized instruments and equipment using chemical indicators, spore strips, and temperature monitors to verify sterility.Developing
- KnowledgeAnalyze equipment failures and sterilization process deviations to identify root causes and implement corrective actions under supervision.Developing
- Hands-onExecute cleaning, decontamination, and preparation protocols for surgical instruments and medical devices in central sterile processing departments, adhering to infection prevention standards.Developing
- KnowledgeApply biological and chemical knowledge to sterilization and disinfection procedures when selecting appropriate methods for different equipment types and contamination levels.Developing
- Hands-onCalibrate sterilization monitoring equipment and maintain accurate documentation systems using inventory tracking software and bar code scanners for regulatory compliance.Developing
- MindsetRespect safety protocols and infection control standards when handling contaminated materials and working with hazardous sterilization agents.Developing
- MindsetSupport interdisciplinary healthcare teams by ensuring timely availability of sterile equipment through effective communication and service-oriented practices.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Medical Equipment Preparers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
72,760
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $35,400. 25th percentile: U.S. $38,910. 50th percentile: U.S. $46,490. 75th percentile: U.S. $56,160. 90th percentile: U.S. $67,070. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $35,400 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $67,070 |
| Workers on average earn | $48,990 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Customer and Personal Service4.5/5
- English Language3.9/5
- Biology3.4/5
- Production and Processing3.2/5
- Public Safety and Security3.1/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Kronos Workforce Timekeeper
- MEDITECH software
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Microsoft Word
- eClinicalWorks EHR software
Technology Skills
- Calendar software
- Database software
- Email software
- Inventory tracking software
- MEDITECH Supply Chain Management
- McKesson ANSOS One-Staff
- Microsoft SharePoint Server
- Pyxis MedStation software
Tools & Equipment
- Aerators
- Automatic dryers
- Bar code scanners
- Bowie Dick test packs
- Chemical sterilization indicators
- Cleaning or sterilizing scrubbing brushes
- Computerized scope washers
- Desktop computers