The Supervisor, Sterile Services oversees the daily operations of sterile processing to ensure the availability of high-quality, sterile instruments and supplies for all surgical and procedural areas. This role manages workflows for decontamination, sterilization, assembly, and distribution while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. The Supervisor leads a team of sterile processing staff, focusing on quality assurance, staff development, and process optimization to support patient safety and operational efficiency.
Supervises all stages of sterile processing, including decontamination, assembly, sterilization, and storage of medical instruments and supplies. Ensures compliance with regulatory and organizational standards for sterilization processes, including steam and hydrogen peroxide sterilizers. Monitors inventory management, ensuring cost-effective stock levels and timely availability of instruments and supplies.
Oversees the maintenance and stocking of unit supply carts, patient care equipment, and other critical items. Implements and monitors quality assurance programs to evaluate sterilizer performance and ensure adherence to infection control protocols. Leads departmental orientation and ongoing education for staff, ensuring competency in sterile processing procedures.
Evaluates employee performance, providing timely feedback, performance appraisals, and opportunities for professional development. Develops and implements departmental quality assessment and risk management plans, addressing any identified deficiencies promptly. Collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to address complaints, variances, and risk management concerns in a timely and professional manner.
Performs other duties as assigned. Maintains regular and reliable attendance. Complies with all policies and standards.
Leadership Responsibilities Supervision and Staff Management Supervises, trains and oversees departmental staff. Schedules employees to ensure effective use of resources. Consults with Manager or Director on staffing issues.
Assists with and contributes to performance evaluations and goal setting. Strategic Planning and Financial Oversight Assists in managing departmental budget ensuring cost-effective operations while maintain high quality service. Monitors expenditures, ensuring cost-effective delivery of services.
May contribute to evaluation and implementation of new technologies to enhance operational efficiency. May contribute to development of departmental policies, procedures and protocols. Quality Assurance and Regulatory Compliance Ensures compliance with all relevant regulatory bodies.
May participate in audits, inspections and accreditation processes as applicable. Follows established quality control practices to ensure accuracy, consistency and safety. Collaboration and Communication Works closely with leadership teams to coordinate and improve service delivery.
Stays up-to-date with industry advancements, new technologies, and regulatory changes. Staff Responsibilities May work in a staff role, when required. Ensures that duties and responsibilities are fulfilled while meeting all competencies established for that job.
Qualifications Associate Degree or higher preferred 1-2 years of related experience in the profession required 1-2 years of previous leadership experience preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills. Ability to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and manage cross-functional relationships. Foster a positive work environment that promotes teamwork, professionalism, and continuous improvement.
Communicate effectively with leadership, team members, and stakeholders. Ability to work effectively with others, delegate responsibilities, and independently manage tasks while meeting established deadlines. Problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
In depth knowledge of industry best practices and regulatory compliance (if applicable). Strong organizational and time management skills. Proficiency with Google and Microsoft platforms, healthcare software systems, and data analysis tools.
Licenses and Certifications CRCST - Certified and Registered Central Service Technician required or CSPDT - Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Tech required or Certified Endoscope Reprocessor (CER) required or CIS - Certified Instrument Specialist required CHL - Certified Healthcare Leader if hired in the role on or after July 1, 2026 required