Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Texas

Sterile processing technicians in Texas are professionals who are trained to work with surgical equipment and tools, ensuring that they are properly sterilized and fit for use in any surgical procedure. Typically, individuals enter this profession after completing a training program.

Of course, candidates also have other educational options available to them, which we analyze in detail below. We also examine other key parts of launching a successful career in the state, analyzing licensing and certification procedures, career growth opportunities, and specific programs.

We conclude the page with a breakdown of how much sterile processing technicians in Texas can earn at various career stages and the factors that influence these numbers.

How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Texas

The following is a general outline of how to begin a career as a sterile processing technician in Texas.

Basic Requirements

In Texas, as in most places across the country, the basic requirement to become a sterile processing technician is completing high school. Those who don’t have a high school diploma can often utilize a GED equivalent to secure admission into their preferred training institutions.

Fundamental Attributes

Attention to detail, communication, collaboration, and basic healthcare skills are all fundamental attributes that a prospective sterile processing technician should possess. Individuals should also work on their problem-solving skills, as they may find themselves in a position to make quick decisions in a surgical environment.

Comprehensive Education

For their sterile process technology education, individuals may choose from a variety of options, including formal programs offered at community colleges or training schools, campus-only programs, online programs, or hybrid programs.

The majority of sterile processing technician training programs can be completed within two weeks to a year. Some may last for two years and lead to an associate’s degree.

Finishing an Internship

Finally, after enrolling in and completing a program, candidates are typically encouraged to undertake an internship to apply their theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. From here, all that remains is certification, which we examine in detail in the next section.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a pharmacy technician in Texas

Licensure & Certification Requirements

The Certifying Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) and the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) are the two primary certifying organizations for sterile processing technicians in Texas and throughout the United States. Candidates are not necessarily expected to pursue a license, but it is a great way to facilitate easy employment and career opportunities.

The board requires candidates to have some form of job experience before they can qualify for the certification examination.

After passing the exam, candidates will become officially certified. However, they will also be expected to participate in ongoing continuing education in order to renew their professional credentials.

Top Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Texas

Aspiring sterile processing technicians in Texas may attend any of the programs below for high-quality education.

Explore Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Texas by city:

• Sterile processing technician schools in Dallas

Salary & Career Outlook

As noted earlier, the amount that a sterile processing technician will take home at the end of each year will depend on their career stage. Those who are further along can expect to earn more than those who are just starting.

According to a survey of professionals carried out on the Indeed.com platform, sterile processing technicians in Texas earn an annual average salary of $35,959 in the bottom 10% category and $67,464 in the top 10% category. They manage an annual average salary of $49,254 in the median category, which is where the majority of professionals fall.

Location and work environment are two factors that can also help candidates improve their yearly returns. The following are the most rewarding places for these professionals to work in the state:

• El Paso, with an annual average salary of $69,708;
• Edinburg, with an annual average salary of $68,220;
• Longview, with an annual average salary of $67,499 and
• Austin, with an annual average salary of $56,327.