While it is actually very enjoyable and straightforward to start a career as a sterile processing technician in Hawaii, individuals who understand the entire process from the outset will have an edge in securing direct employment and career opportunities. Furthermore, they will be able to optimize their careers for competitive earnings and advanced education.
To help readers achieve this objective, we have carefully curated the detailed guide below. The guide contains the preparatory step, educational requirements, licensing and certification considerations, and top schools.
It also explores the annual average salary categories professionals can fall into and how to continue improving their yearly numbers.
How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Hawaii
All of the steps below are necessary to become a successful sterile processing technician in Hawaii.
Step 1: Preparatory Considerations
The best way to prepare for a career as a sterile processing technician as early as possible is to have a solid understanding of high school biology and chemistry, along with a high school diploma or GED.
These make it easy for individuals to secure enrollment in a training program and pursue certification along the way.
Step 2: Formal Education
Individuals must choose a training program that will teach them what they need to become successful sterile processing technicians. Candidates may speak to an adviser to understand the most suitable choices for them.
Usually, those who want some flexibility can choose online programs, while those who prefer interactive education can choose campus-based programs. These programs teach microbiology, infection control, and other important topics.
Step 3: Real-World Education
After learning the topics they will need, candidates must be able to practice them in a work environment. This is why schools allow sterile processing students to complete an internship either during the final stages of their education or upon program completion.
Step 4: Career Growth
Career growth as a sterile processing technician can include participating in continuing education and building experience. This will help professionals qualify for advanced positions, including sterile processing technologist and sterile processing supervisor roles.
They can also leverage further education to work in a different but related field. This includes working as surgical technologists, surgical technicians, licensed practical nurses, and registered nurses.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
The requirements for certification as a sterile processing technician in Hawaii vary by credentialing body. Currently, the two most respected organizations are the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association and the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution.
Both organizations allow candidates to pursue certification after completing a training program with a satisfactory score. They also allow candidates with 400 hours of work experience or at least 6 months.
Those who meet the requirements will be able to register for the certification exam. Those who pass the exam will officially become credentialed.
Top Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Hawaii
Hawaii residents may attend any of the following institutions for the best possible education in the field.
Hawaii Community College
Online, HI Online Only
Hawaii Community College remains one of the best post-secondary institutions in the state. The school offers an online sterile processing technician program that can be completed self-guided.
Tuition
$2,995 - $3,290 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
Academy for Healthcare Innovation
Aiea, HI Campus + Online
Another wonderful training program for prospective sterile processing technicians in Hawaii is offered by the Academy for Healthcare Innovation. The institution is responsible for several healthcare programs, including a sterile processing program with qualified instructors.
Tuition
$275 per CreditContact
(808) 458-1437
info@ahihawaii.org
Explore Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Hawaii by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
As a sterile processing technician in Hawaii just starting a career, you can expect to earn an average annual salary of $91,849, according to Indeed. It is also possible to earn an annual average salary of around $112,003 or more.
Those in the first category are median earners, and those in the second are among the top 10%. The median figure for Hawaii is 28% above the national average.
However, it is also possible to start a little lower in the bottom-earning category. In this case, candidates will still manage an annual average salary of $75,322.
The locations with the highest averages are ‘Aeia with an annual average salary of $99,347; Honolulu with an annual average salary of $94,875; Kailua with an annual average salary of $85,032.




