Sterile Processing Technician Schools in North Carolina

Sterile processing technology as a profession includes mastering the methodologies employed to achieve the desired level of sterility in the medical industry. Thanks to sterile processing technicians, doctors and patients alike can have complete confidence in the safety of the tools and equipment used during surgery and other medical procedures.

For aspiring sterile processing technicians in North Carolina, the guide below should provide more than enough information to help them start on a path to achieving their career goals. Here, they will find everything they need to consider, from preparation and training to certification and career advancement.

How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in North Carolina

Sterile processing technicians in North Carolina typically begin successful careers by following the steps below.

Complete a Top Training Program

Students seeking top training programs in sterile processing technology may consider the educational arrangements offered by community colleges and technical schools in the state. While some programs require a candidate’s presence throughout the entire program, others allow students to study online from the convenience of their own homes.

Another thing to consider when choosing a training program is the award in sight. Some programs, particularly the shorter ones, can be completed in a few months and may result in a certificate of completion.

Others who take a couple of years to complete may be awarded an associate degree.

Internship & Practical Experience

Having a strong academic foundation enables candidates to build upon their knowledge and gain real-world confidence in a professional work environment. This can be done through an internship.

Some medical establishments also offer apprenticeship opportunities for interested individuals.

Certification Preparation

Completing a training program and gaining practical experience in an actual work environment are typically the two primary qualifying factors for certification as a sterile processing technician. Candidates must also strive to select the appropriate certifying organization.

We explore the best options and the general process in the upcoming section.

Job Placement & Advanced Responsibilities

With the right level of training and possibly certification, anyone in North Carolina can secure gainful employment as a sterile processing technician. After mastering entry-level and mid-level roles, professionals in the field can ultimately work as sterile processing supervisors, surgical technicians and technologists, and licensed practical nurses.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a medical biller and coder in North Carolina

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Sterile processing technicians in North Carolina are not required by law to obtain a license. However, it has become very important for candidates to pursue certification to make themselves as employable as possible.

Certification also signifies credibility and can lead to benefits such as continuing education and professional networking opportunities. Currently, the two major organizations that offer respected credentials to sterile processing technicians in North Carolina and nationwide are the Certifying Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution and the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA).

Both organizations offer credentials to candidates who have formal education and work experience.

Top Sterile Processing Technician Schools in North Carolina

All of the entries below offer amazing training programs for aspiring sterile processing technicians in North Carolina.

Explore Sterile Processing Technician Schools in North Carolina by city:

• Sterile processing technician schools in Charlotte

Salary & Career Outlook

Charlotte, with an average annual salary of $80,250, is the most favorable destination for working in North Carolina as a sterile processing technician based solely on the average annual income. Rocky Mount, with an annual average salary of $77,738, and Concord, with an annual average salary of $70,240, are also among the top three.

Those who work in Asheville earn an annual average salary of $68,992.

Location is not the only factor determining yearly income in the field, as criteria like experience, work environment, and professional credentials can all be equally influential.

On a general level, sterile processing technicians in North Carolina manage an annual average salary of $114,056 in the top category, $46,719 in the lower category, and $72,997 in the middle category.