How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Missouri

Missouri, where the rivers run!

Sterile conditions and tools are the backbone of America’s medical facilities, which is no different for Missouri.

A sterile processing technician is a great career path if you’re looking for a rewarding and high-demand job in the state.

Sterile processing is needed across various health sectors, including surgical, medical, and dental facilities—which would not be able to run safely without a sterile processing technician.

How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Missouri: A Step-by-Step Guide

So, you’re interested in becoming a sterile processing technician in Missouri—but where do you start?

In that case, our guide is perfect for learning more about any formal qualifications, requirements, and opportunities for Missouri residents.

Compared to other states around America, there aren’t as many educational institutions offering study options.

While the job title is a sterile processing technician, the program for a formal qualification is referred to as surgical technology in most cases.

Although you don’t need any kind of formal qualification or certification to work as an SPT, however, without this landing a job becomes very difficult as most employers prefer candidates who’ve formal training and certification.

So, it’s highly recommended that you enroll in a formal training program and get certified to boost your chances of getting employed.

We’ve got all the information you need to know about formal training programs and certification requirements below!

Are there any prerequisites for studying to become a sterile processing technician in Missouri? Or can anyone apply?

There are a few prerequisites and requirements to start studying a surgical technology program in Missouri.

This includes being at least 18 and obtaining your high school diploma or equivalent.

The different colleges and universities will also have prerequisite courses that need to be completed before beginning the program, as well as general education courses.

* General education courses can also be taken concurrent with the program but preferred to be completed prior.

 For example, North Central Missouri College requires completing the following courses with a “C” or above grade.

• BI240 Anatomy
• BI242 Physiology
• AH160 Basic Medical Terminology
• BI243 Microbiology

As well as the following General Education Courses:

• SP175 Speech OR SP220 Interpersonal Communications
• EN101 English I
• AH106 Math-Allied Health (or higher level)
• HI103 American History to 1877 OR HI104 American History Since 1877 OR PL216 National Government

If you’re looking to apply to a surgical technology program, and you’re not sure about the prerequisites or need help—it’s a great idea to reach out to the specific educational institution you’re looking to apply to.

Do you need to be certified or registered as a sterile processing technician in Missouri?

Unlike other healthcare professions, there is no need to register with the state or meet a state-mandated education standard or requirement.

Obtaining a certificate is also optional—what’s most important is getting your foot in the door with a formal qualification.

Once you obtain your surgical technology qualification, you can apply for jobs as a sterile processing technician.

While certification isn’t necessary, it might help build your resume and make it look more appealing to potential employers.

Once you finish your formal qualifications and study to become a sterile processing technician, there are various certification boards you can look at.

The Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) offers certification for sterile processing professionals, which is accredited by both the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) and the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).

To obtain a CRCST status from the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association, you must pass their certification exam, as well as provide 400 hours of hands-on experience within six months of passing the exam.

A certification from HSPA is a great way to show employers that you have the knowledge and skills to work in the sterile processing field.

Another option for certification is through the Sterile Processing & Distribution Technician Certification Exam (CSPDT).

Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Missouri

University of Central Missouri

Location: 1101 NW Innovation Parkway, Lee’s Summit, MO 64086

Program: Sterile Processing Technician Certificate Program

Cost: $2,895 (including books, fees, and exam costs)

The University of Central Missouri is one of the best options if you’re looking to start a career as a sterile processing technician.

Their program is 150 hours long, including classroom training and homework, plus 400 hours of clinical experience.

At the end of it, you can also expect to get your UCM Certificate of Completion and be a Certified Registered Central Services Technician from HSPA.

St. Louis Community College

Location: 5600 Oakland Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110

Program: Surgical Technology (Associate in Applied Science)

Cost: Information on the cost can be found on the course page

The St. Louis Community College is an excellent option if you’re also looking for flexibility and advanced learning options.

The community college offers two tiers of sterile processing technician training and the opportunity to study online and in person.

North Central Missouri College

Location: Savannah Campus (601 N US Hwy 71, Savannah, MO 64485)

Program: Associate In Applied Science: Surgical Technology

Cost: Information available on the college website

North Central Missouri College offers a surgical technology program at their Savannah Campus Location.

It’s an 11-month program that will prepare you to work as a sterile processing technician in a surgical environment.

Average Salary of a Sterile Processing Technician in Missouri

While sterile processing is a high-demand job and will always be needed, Missouri isn’t the best-paid location for them.

The average income of a sterile processing technician in Missouri is about $33,200 a year, which is about $6,000 below the typical salary for the role compared to the rest of the country, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

However, don’t let this discourage you.

The role of a sterile processing technician in Missouri is also dependent on experience and seniority.

Sterile processing technicians can work in a variety of healthcare fields, from surgical rooms to dental facilities.

The job is also behind-the-scenes, so if you love the idea of working in healthcare, but a client-facing role seems scary or could be anxiety-inducing, a sterile processing technician is a great opportunity!

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the role of medical equipment preparers (which include sterile processing technicians) is projected to grow at least 6% from 2021 to 2031.

The healthcare industry is one that will always be in need of professionals, whether it’s behind the scenes or in a front-facing role.

Annual Salary Range: Annual Salary by Location:

Location	Avg. Annual Salary
Kansas City	$44,447
St. Louis	$44,624
Springfield	$42,367
Independence	$44,399
Columbia	$44,110
St. Joseph	$44,018
Lee's Summit	$44,278
St. Charles	$44,382
St. Peters	$44,286
Florissant	$44,551

Regional Salary in Missouri

* Salary information based on the May 2023 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Medical Equipment Preparers, OCC Code 31-9093, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get financial aid for surgical technology programs in Missouri?

The schools in Missouri that offer programs to study surgical technology/sterile processing don’t typically qualify for financial aid.

However, it might still be worth asking about or looking into alternative financing options.

If I’ve earned my certification or studied in another state, can I still work as a sterile processing technician in Missouri?

Yes!

Compared to other healthcare professions, the rules, and regulations around working as a sterile processing technician aren’t as strict—especially in Missouri.

Are you required to be vaccinated to study or work as a sterile processing technician in Missouri?

Vaccinations and immunization history are typically required throughout your study, training, placements, and when you’re working.

At some schools, refusal to comply with vaccination requirements may limit placement and your study progress.

Sterile Processing Technician Info by State