Key Points

• A Sterile Processing Technician is a critical healthcare support professional responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, and preparing all surgical instruments and medical equipment.
• How much is the average/range of tuition cost of sterile processing programs in Sacramento? Certificate programs at local community colleges are very affordable, typically ranging from $1,500 to $3,000, while private colleges may cost more.
• Length of training for a Sterile Processing Technician: Training programs are fast and can often be completed in one to two semesters, or about 4-9 months.
• Certification required for most jobs: While not a state law, virtually all Sacramento employers require national certification, such as the CRCST from HSPA.
• Ave. salary in Sacramento according to the latest US BLS data 2024: The median salary for a Sterile Processing Technician in the Sacramento metro area is approximately $76,570 per year.

What is a Sterile Processing Technician?

A sterile processing technician (sometimes called a sterile processing tech or Central Sterile Supply Technician) is responsible for making sure all surgical tools and medical equipment are thoroughly cleaned, sterilized, and ready for use.

What Does a Sterile Processing Technician Do?

• Decontaminating and cleaning used surgical instruments and medical devices.
• Operating complex sterilization equipment like autoclaves.
• Inspecting instruments for damage and ensuring they function correctly.
• Assembling instrument trays and surgical kits for specific procedures.
• Meticulously documenting all sterilization processes and maintaining inventory records.

Requirements to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Sacramento

To get hired at a top hospital in Sacramento, you'll need to meet the industry standards for this highly detailed profession.

• Education: You must have a high school diploma or a GED.
• Formal Training: Completion of a certificate program in sterile processing from an accredited school is expected by all major employers.
• Hands-On Experience: California law effectively requires 400 hours of hands-on experience in a clinical setting to qualify for certification, which is a key part of your training program.
• National Certification: While not a state license, holding a professional certification like the CRCST is a mandatory requirement for nearly every job in the field.
• Background Check: You must be able to pass a criminal background check and drug screening.

What's the Fastest Someone Can Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Sacramento?

The fastest way to become a Sterile Processing Technician in Sacramento is to enroll in a full-time certificate program at a local community college or vocational school. These focused programs are designed to be completed quickly, often within one or two semesters (4-9 months). This includes all the classroom instruction and the 400 hours of required hands-on clinical experience to prepare you for your certification exam and first job.

Sterile Processing Technician Classes in Sacramento

Explore these top sterile processing technician programs in Sacramento:

Sacramento City College

• Length: 2 semesters (approx. 9 months)
• Cost: Approximately $2,500 for the entire program (for California residents).
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED
• Overview: Similar to ARC, Sac City College offers a robust certificate program that combines classroom theory with the mandatory 400 hours of hands-on clinical training. The program is well-connected with major local employers like UC Davis Health and Sutter Health.

Carrington College

• Length: Approximately 9 months
• Cost: Contact the college for current tuition (typically higher than community colleges).
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED
• Overview: Carrington College offers a diploma program that provides in-depth, career-focused training. It's a good option for students looking for a private college environment with structured support and career placement services included.

American River College

• Length: 2 semesters (approx. 9 months)
• Cost: Approximately $1,500 for the entire program (for California residents).
• Requirements: High school diploma/GED, completion of specific prerequisite courses (e.g., Medical Terminology).
• Overview: ARC's program is highly respected in the region and provides a comprehensive certificate that includes 400 hours of clinical experience at local hospitals. The curriculum is designed to prepare students directly for the HSPA (CRCST) certification exam.

Online Sterile Processing Technician Classes in Sacramento

Due to the mandatory 400 hours of hands-on clinical experience required for certification in California, you cannot become a Sterile Processing Technician through a fully online program. Some schools may offer a hybrid format where you can complete the classroom lectures online, but you must attend in-person labs and your extensive clinical internship at a Sacramento-area hospital or surgical center.

Free and Low-Cost Sterile Processing Technician Classes in Sacramento

The most affordable path to this career is through Sacramento's community colleges like American River College, where tuition is exceptionally low. Additionally, you can find financial support through:

• Sacramento Works / SETA: These local workforce development agencies may offer grants (like WIOA) to cover tuition costs for in-demand careers for eligible residents.
• Cal Grants & FAFSA: Applying for state and federal financial aid can significantly reduce or eliminate the cost of attending a community college program.
• Employer Sponsorship: Some hospitals may offer to pay for training for internal candidates moving from other departments.

Sterile Processing Technician Certification Process

National certification is the key to employment in Sacramento. The two main credentials are:

• CRCST (Certified Registered Central Service Technician) from HSPA.
• CSPDT (Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician) from CBSPD.

The process to get certified is clear:

• Complete Training: Graduate from a Sterile Processing Technician certificate program.
• Complete Clinical Hours: You must complete your 400 hours of hands-on experience in a sterile processing department.
• Pass the Exam: Pass the national certification exam, which tests your knowledge of decontamination, sterilization, and infection control.
• Maintain Certification: You must complete continuing education credits annually to keep your certification active.

Job Environment: Where Do Sterile Processing Technicians Work?

Sterile Processing Technicians work behind the scenes in the heart of medical facilities. In Sacramento, the biggest employers are:

• Hospitals: Every hospital with a surgical department has a large sterile processing department. This includes UC Davis Health, Sutter Health, Kaiser Permanente, and Dignity Health.
• Outpatient Surgical Centers: Sometimes called "surgicenters," these facilities handle same-day surgeries.
• Dental Offices: Larger dental and oral surgery practices often have their own sterile processing staff.
• Specialty Clinics: Any clinic that performs invasive procedures requires sterile instruments.

FAQs

Is certification required for Sterile Processing Technicians in California?

While the state of California does not issue its own license, it does have a law that effectively requires technicians to be certified by a national organization to work in the field, as it is a prerequisite for the mandatory 400 hours of hands-on experience.

Is Sterile Processing a good career in Sacramento?

Yes, it's an excellent career with a high median salary for the required level of training, strong local demand from major hospital systems, and a quick path from school to employment.

Final Thoughts

Sterile processing technician training in Sacramento can lead to a high-demand career in just a few months. With average pay nearing $70,000 and strong job growth, now’s a great time to start.
Dreambound can help you compare local sterile processing technician schools, find financial aid, and choose the best sterile processing technician program for your goals.

Ready for your healthcare career? Explore and apply for sterile processing technician classes with Dreambound today.

Looking for other medical careers? Check out:

• Surgical Technician Training in Sacramento
• CNA Training in Sacramento