Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Virginia

Sterile processing technicians in Virginia are in high demand, and this impressive growth rate is expected to continue, according to projections from relevant parties such as the BLS. Professionals in the field are also very well rewarded, and those who would like to enter the profession have a straightforward process with minimal stress.

Below, we break down everything candidates need to know, including how to adequately prepare for training and which training programs to choose for the best results. We also analyze the licensing and certification routes for professional development and career growth.

Finally, readers will leave the guide with a clear understanding of what to expect from annual average salaries in the field.

How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Virginia

The following is a step-by-step guide to starting a career as a sterile processing technician in Virginia.

Basic Requirements

The basic requirements for prospective sterile processing technicians are usually set by employers and training institutions, not the government. Currently, being at least 18 years old and having a high school diploma or GED are the most common admission requirements for both training programs and employers.

Proper Training from a Prominent Program

Sterile Processing Technician schools in Virginia prepare candidates for professional careers by helping them develop the skills needed for employment. However, the best programs don’t just focus on theoretical concepts; they also provide candidates with opportunities to practice with actual tools and equipment.

Additionally, some programs offer other benefits, including certification preparation, job placement assistance, networking opportunities, and more. One of the following sections discusses the best programs to consider for all of these benefits.

Employment & Career Opportunities

Anyone who has completed formal training and is confident in their abilities can start securing employment as sterile processing technicians. These professionals can work in clinics, hospitals, surgical centers, and more.

Candidates can also facilitate career opportunities through networking and certification. We take a look at the considerations in these areas below.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Steps to become a medical biller and coder in Virginia

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Certification is absolutely crucial to the success of sterile processing technicians, just as it is in virtually all allied healthcare professions. Even though it is not legally required, anyone with a respected credential will have an edge over their counterparts who don’t.

Employers love working with certified professionals, which may lead to better employment opportunities and higher pay. Of course, to become certified, candidates must follow the proper process, which includes selecting a certifying organization, passing a credentialing exam, and maintaining the credential through ethical practices and continuing education.

The Certified Registered Central Sterile Technician (CRSCT) credential from the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) is the most popular among sterile processing technicians in Virginia.

Top Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Virginia

The following schools offer excellent programs for prospective sterile processing technicians in Virginia.

Explore Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Virginia by city:

• Sterile processing technician schools in Chesapeake

Salary & Career Outlook

The following are the top places to work as a sterile processing technician in Virginia (by annual average salary).

• Roanoke, with an annual average salary of $91,457;
• Reston, with an annual average salary of $73,956;
• Richmond, with an annual average salary of $73,884; and
• Arlington, with an annual average salary of $73,598.

The data were provided by a survey of professionals in the field conducted on Indeed.com. This data also revealed the general classifications without focusing on any singular criteria.

In this case, the distribution is as follows:

• The top 10% manage an annual average salary of $84,672;
• The bottom 10% manage an annual average salary of $59,804; and
• The median earners manage an annual average salary of $71,160 according to Indeed.

As for the factors that influence these categories, we have Experience, location, and professional credentials, among others.