How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in North Dakota

If you are considering a career as a Sterile Processing Technician in North Dakota, this excellent state offers a very promising pathway.

There is a growing demand for healthcare professionals in North Dakota which makes it the ideal place to begin your journey in Sterile Processing.

This, combined with supportive communities and the opportunity for quality education makes it an excellent career choice for anyone considering a career in healthcare.

Navigating the Path to Becoming a Sterile Processing Technician in North Dakota

Becoming a Sterile Processing Technician in North Dakota does involve some specific steps.

Check out this specific step-by-step guide to kick off your career.

What You Will Need

In order to enter into most healthcare programs, you will need to have obtained a high school diploma or GED.

These are both standard requirements.

You will also need to pass a drug test and background check.

Know What You’re Getting Into

Doing a lot of research will ensure a much smoother transition into this career.

You should research the role, what it entails, and all other details before committing.

Find the Right Program

The next step is to invest in a quality education to ensure longevity and success in this career.

There are plenty of Sterile Processing Technician programs in North Dakota via vocational schools, local community colleges, and online educational institutions.

Complete Your Training and Coursework to Obtain Certification

Complete all of your training and coursework with your chosen educational institute.

Put Yourself Out There

Find a clinical internship or externship to gain on-the-job experience.

You will need to undergo 400 hours of lab experience.

Utilize Study Materials and Sit Your Exam

Utilize all of your study materials and practice exams to prepare for your certification exams.

Verify your passing requirements and details via the CBSPD website.

Many organizations offer certification exams such as the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association, HSPA.

Find a Job

Search for Sterile Processing Technician jobs on hospital websites, job websites, and professional networks such as LinkedIn.

Network

Networking in your chosen industry is an invaluable tool.

Develop your skills and connect with other healthcare professionals to secure and keep your position.

Continue Your Education

Consider taking any opportunity to continue your education via professional organizations, exposure, and educational institutions.

Sterile Processing Technician Schools in North Dakota

Before you’re able to complete any formal training, you will need a high school diploma or GED.

Currently, there aren’t any on-campus sterile processing technician programs on offer in North Dakota.

The closest thing is a Surgical Technology degree offered by Western Dakota Tech.

Luckily, you also have access to some fantastic online options like the ones below.

Western Dakota Tech

Western Dakota Tech over in Rapid City offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Surgical Technology.

While it isn’t exactly Sterile Processing, it can be a great educational option as it will provide you with a lot of interesting information.

You will learn how to provide assistance in an operating room on top of sterile processing techniques.

• Location: 800 Mickelson Dr, Rapid City SD 57703
• Program: Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology
• Course Length: 18 months
• Cost: $255 per credit for on-campus classes and $305 for online classes.

Additional charges will apply for books, tools, uniforms, certifications, and program-specific expenses.

Penn Foster

Penn Foster offers a great program that will kick off your career in the right way.

To complete the Sterile Processing Technician Training, you will need to pass 12 sterile processing-related courses.

Most graduates who are successful will need around two months to finish this course. Graduates can then sit the HSPA exam.

• Location: Online
• Program: Sterile Processing Technician Training
• Course Length: 2 months
• Cost: $1,199

MedCerts

MedCerts offers a 14-week Sterile Processing Technician course in order to prepare you for the CRCST exam.

The program will also help you find a local site for your clinical experience.

Financial aid is available for this program.

• Location: Online
• Program: Sterile Processing Technician
• Course Length: 14 weeks
• Cost: $4,000

Sterile Processing Technician Salary in North Dakota

In North Dakota, Sterile Processing Technicians make roughly $37,170 annually, or $17.87 per hour according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The most experienced, highest-earning technicians make roughly $50,310 per year.

Between 2018 and 2028, there is expected to be a 13.3 percent increase in the number of Sterile Processing Technician jobs available.

Annual Salary Range: Annual Salary by Location:

Location	Avg. Annual Salary
Fargo	$42,521
Bismarck	$44,243
Grand Forks	$40,704
Minot	$43,563
Mandan	$44,243
Dickinson	$43,563
Jamestown	$42,702
West Fargo	$42,521
Williston	$43,563
Wahpeton	$41,841

Regional Salary in North Dakota

* Salary information based on the May 2022 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Medical Equipment Preparers, OCC Code 31-9093, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the demand for Sterile Processing Technicians in North Dakota?

There is a strong demand for Sterile Processing Technicians in North Dakota.

This is a direct result of the state’s amazing healthcare facilities and the need for sterile equipment and instruments.

There are plenty of job prospects.

Are there opportunities for clinical experience or internships in North Dakota?

Yes!

Many educational programs provide students with hands-on experience and clinical internships.

Can I work without certification in North Dakota?

Certification may not always be required, but it is most certainly recommended if you want to improve your job prospects.

Many employers will prefer certified candidates.

How can I stay updated with the industry trends and best practices in North Dakota?

You can choose to join national or local organizations that are related to sterile processing, participate in continuing education, and attend workshops in order to stay updated.

Are there opportunities for career advancement in North Dakota?

Yes!

You can always advance your career by pursuing advanced certificates, gaining experience, and seeking better positions.

Sterile Processing Technician Info by State