Medical Supply Technician (Sterile Processing)

Basic Requirements: GS-07, Medical Supply Technician (Sterile Processing) - Trainer

Experience. One year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.

In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following:

Knowledge of SPS and Infection Prevention regulations.

Knowledge of procedures and/or operations in training developed for, and operations of SPS functions for both new and existing staff.

Ability to manage integrated training programs as it relates to sterile processing procedures.

Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel or other software programs in order to complete reports and develop skills.

Ability to communicate effectively with staff and management officials in regards to sterile processing procedures.


The MST Trainer is responsible for developing formal and informal written plans for the SPS training program, in compliance with accreditation organizations and VHA-specific requirements as well as medical center policies and procedures for SPS and related staff. Facilitates training of SPS staff through educational programs and job specific instruction. Improves SPS processes by facilitating the application for new technology of reusable medical devices by training all new and existing staff. Develops, monitors, and revises SPS educational programs for both new and existing staff. Documents and assesses staff's training, to identify areas of strength and need. Develops an education plan (literature review, continuing education, in-services, certification and/or formal education) to maintain and improve knowledge in specialized areas of processing reusable medical devices. Participates in tracking, trending and analyzing education data. Identifies opportunities for improvement, makes recommendations and/or prepares reports based on findings. Develops and conducts the annual review of the SPS preceptor program.

Physical Requirement: This work is performed in various settings: decontamination, preparation, clean sterile supply (preparation) and in other services and departments throughout the medical facility/campus. May be required to work in areas that are hot, cold, drafty and poorly lighted. Is subject to the possibility of falls, scrapes, cuts, bruises, and other injuries from material handling equipment. The work requires standing and walking during the entire workday and frequent bending and lifting of packages (occasionally weighing as much as 50 pounds). The work requires dexterity and visual acuity for manipulating, disassembly and assembly of instrumentation.

On a regular and recurring basis, alternates between a contaminated environment and a carefully controlled clean environment. Wears special clothing, hair covers, personal protective equipment and shoe covers that can be uncomfortably warm. Uses insulated gloves to remove carts from sterilizers. Is subject to burns from accidentally touching hot items. The hazards of working around minute quantities of sterilizing gasses are unknown. Often works around body fluids, mucous, excretions and bits of tissue, some of which may be foul smelling. Strong, unpleasant odors are encountered while decontaminating bloody or grossly contaminated instrumentation or reusable medical equipment. The work area is noisy due to the clatter of metal instruments, rumbling of carts and operation of pre- sterilizing equipment.

Requires visual acuity, keen hearing, clear distinctive speech, and manual dexterity. Requires potentially long periods of continued walking, standing, stooping, sitting, bending, pulling, and pushing. Transferring patients and objects may be required. Mechanical inpatient lifts are provided. May be exposed to infected patients and contaminated materials and may be required to don protective clothing in isolation situations, operative/invasive procedures, or home settings. May occasionally be exposed to patients who are combative secondary to delirium, dementia, or psychiatric disorders. Must be a mature, flexible, sensible individual capable of working effectively in stressful situations, able to shift priorities based on patient needs. Must complete annual Employee Health requirements, such as annual TB screening or testing, as a condition of employment.