Sterile Processing Technician - Veterinary Medicine

Job Description

Job Description

Sirius Veterinary Orthopedic Center (Sirius Vet) is the first of its kind in the Omaha, Lincoln, and Council Bluffs metro area. We are a cutting-edge veterinary practice committed to delivering outstanding care to beloved pets. As a referral-only clinic, we specialize in orthopedic procedures designed to restore comfort, mobility, and overall health for small animals.

Position Summary:

The Sterile Processing Technician plays a critical role in the success of the surgical team by ensuring all surgical instruments, equipment, and implants are sterilized, maintained, and ready for use. This position supports the surgical workflow by proactively managing surgical packs, troubleshooting equipment issues, and ensuring a high standard of cleanliness and organization within the sterile processing area. Working closely with the Sterile Processing Lead and surgical team, the Sterile Processing Technician ensures efficient turnover of equipment and seamless support for all surgical procedures.

Key Responsibilities:Daily Operations & Surgical Support

• Participating in surgical rounds with surgeons and leads to proactively plan for the day's procedures and anticipate potential obstacles such as short staffing, complex cases, or equipment needs.
• Pull and prepare surgical packs, instruments, and carts-preferably in advance of each surgical day.
• Communicate equipment or scheduling concerns to the Surgery Services Manager or Surgical Leads.
• Support in other areas of the hospital when appropriately trained and as time permits.
• Perform end-of-day duties to maintain surgical suite readiness.

Sterilization & Equipment Management

• Set up and organize surgical tools and implants within all surgical packs according to procedure-specific needs.
• Ensure timely turnover of equipment between cases, including cleaning, inspection, re-packaging, and sterilization.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues such as compromised sterility, wet packs, or malfunctioning equipment.
• Identify and send out equipment for repair when necessary; perform or schedule routine maintenance as assigned.
• Maintain accurate documentation for sterilization cycles, repairs, and maintenance.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient sterile processing workspace.

Operating Room Support

• Demonstrate familiarity with surgical instrumentation, including names and uses.
• Identify and respond quickly to compromised surgical packs or OR supply issues.
• Assist with OR turnover and cleaning between procedures as needed.
• Communicate clearly with scrub techs and circulating team members to ensure timely availability of necessary instruments.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Solid understanding of veterinary clinical operations, surgical instrumentation, and sterilization processes.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage workflow, and stay calm in a high-pressure environment.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and time management.
• Capable of independently managing the sterilization and pack room while also functioning as a collaborative team member.
• Technically proficient with computer systems and office equipment.
• Professional demeanor with effective communication skills (verbal and written).
• Physically able to stand for long periods and manage repetitive tasks.
• Empathetic, adaptable, and resourceful, with a focus on quality care and teamwork.

Work Environment:

This role functions within a fast-paced surgical setting where consistent attention to detail, cleanliness, and proactive planning are essential. The Sterile Processing Technician is a crucial part of the surgical team's success and ensures safe, sterile conditions for every procedure.

Reporting Structure:

The Sterile Processing Technician reports to the Surgical Services Manager and works closely with the Sterile Processing Lead, Surgical Scrub Technicians, and Surgical Floor Leads.

Commitment to Excellence:

This position is instrumental in upholding safety, efficiency, and excellence in the operating room. Through precision, organization, and communication, the Sterile Processing Technician directly supports high-quality surgical care.