How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in New York (Certification Programs & Salary Guide)

Sterile processing technicians play a critical role in the medical field.

They are primarily responsible for cleaning, decontaminating, sterilizing medical equipment, and more that is used during surgical procedures.

The sterilization of medical equipment helps stop the spread of germs and bacteria.

If you reside in New York and have dreams of being a sterile processing technician, this guide is for you.

Continue reading to learn about the steps it takes to become a sterile processing technician and various schools in the state that offer programs.

Steps to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in New York

Here are several steps to take to become a sterile processing tech in New York:

Step 1: Enroll and Complete a Training Program

There are a variety of training programs all over New York to choose from.

Students can conveniently choose one that best suits their needs and fits within their budgets, all while helping them to meet their career goals.

So the first step would be to find and complete a training program in the state.

Before applying to a program, be sure to contact the school to discuss budget, scheduling, and career goals.

It’s also advised to do your research on schools before graduating from high school.

Step 2: Complete an Externship or Internship

All programs do not require you to complete an internship or externship.

But, it’s highly recommended as you’ll appear more valuable to employers.

Employers are more likely to consider candidates who have experience in the field compared to those who do not.

In addition, many interns are hired directly once they finish a program, which is also a huge plus.

Step 3: Receive a Certificate

Certification isn’t required, but many employers do tend to require newly hired technicians to be certified by the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materials Management or by the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution.

Every certifying body has its own set of exam requirements which will serve as confirmation that the candidate has learned proper material during their training.

Step 4: Apply for Jobs

Finally, you can begin your job search for sterile processing tech jobs in New York.

Certification can be completed in as little as two years or less for recent grads.

It’s highly advised that graduates certify soon after graduating.

Licensing Requirements to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in New York

New York does not require sterile processing technicians to be licensed.

In addition, there isn’t a statewide oversight for this profession.

But, it’s still mandatory for sterile processing technicians to meet certain specifications that are put forth by various regulatory bodies.

Certain education and legal requirements must be met in New York to work as a sterile processing technician.

For instance, technicians must at least have a high school diploma or GED.

It’s not unusual for employers to prefer candidates with certification or post-secondary education.

New York also has legal requirements for sterile processing techs that choose to be certified.

Certification must come from a professional organization that is recognized.

It can come from the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management or the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution.

Sterile Processing Technician Programs in New York

Here are some schools in New York that offer sterile processing technician programs:

Buffalo Educational Opportunity Center

555 Elliot St l Buffalo, NY 14203 l 716-645-9555

Buffalo Educational Opportunity Center is worth considering if you don’t have any medical experience and are interested in enrolling in a program to become a sterile processing technician.

Upon completion, graduates will receive a certificate allowing them to take the certification exam.

During this program, students will be taught the proper techniques to prepare them for work in the field.

The program takes 15 weeks to complete.

Capital Region BOCES

900 Watervliet-Shaker Rd l Albany, NY 12205 l 518-862-4900

The sterile processing technician program offered by Capital Region BOCES is ideal for those considering a career in the field.

It helps ensure that students are well-prepared to work on the front line tackling germs and keeping the environment safe for patients.

There is a $30 application fee.

Tuition costs a total of $3,940 and books cost around $110.

This program is part-time and runs from September through April.

They also offer clinical experience at several medical centers, including St. Peter’s Hospital, Ellis Hospital, and Albany Medical Center.

Rochester Education Opportunity

161 Chestnut St l Rochester, NY 14604 l 585-232-2730

Rochester Education Opportunity is another school that offers students the opportunity to learn all there is to know about becoming a sterile processing technician.

This program teaches the proper cleaning, sterilization, decontamination, and equipment practices of medical instruments and equipment.

Students entering into this program must have a high school diploma, undergo a physical, and be up-to-date on vaccinations.

They must also meet the age requirement, which is 18 years of age.

The program lasts three months, which is about 15 weeks.

Onondaga Cortland Madison BOCES

PO Box 4754 l Syracuse, NY 13221 l 315-433-2600

The central processing tech program offered at Onondaga Cortland Madison is a half internship and a half lecture, located at a medical center.

Students who enroll in and complete this program will be more than prepared to take the certification exam.

The total cost of this program is $7,750 and is a total of 678 clock hours.

The program has a 79% graduation rate and 72% job placement rate.

Salary

As of October 2024, the average annual salary for sterile processing technicians in New York is $46,300, although it can be as high as $57,546 or as low as $36,944.

Typically, most sterile processing technicians in the state earn between $41,403 and $52,186 per year, depending on certification, experience, and additional skills.

Regional Salary