How to Become a Sterile Processing Technician in Montana

In medical centers, it’s crucial that any tools and equipment are properly cleaned for infection control and to ensure a sterile environment.

Without sterile processing technicians, the healthcare industry would struggle.

It’s an honorable and high-demand job.

Whether you’re looking to start an entry-level job as a sterile processing technician or looking for a career change, our in-depth guide will walk you through the process of becoming a sterile processing technician in Montana.

Becoming a Sterile Processing Technician in Montana: A Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you’ve been thinking about becoming a sterile processing technician as the next step out of high school or thinking of a career change later in life—let us help.

Our guide will list the path to becoming a sterile processing technician in Montana step by step.

High School

If you’ve decided as early as high school that you want to become a sterile processing technician, taking classes that provide the proper foundation to build upon is important.

Taking classes in science or math is essential, particularly biology and chemistry.

If you can, also look for volunteer work at nearby healthcare organizations, whether at a medical center, clinic, or aged care home.

Post-Secondary Study

While it is possible to learn on the job and break into the sterile processing industry without a formal qualification, employers rarely hire someone without it.

In Montana, many employers would prefer candidates with the required skills and knowledge.

Do You Need to Register to Work as a Sterile Processing Technician?

It’s uncommon for sterile processing technicians to have to register or certify, with only four states—Connecticut, New Jersey, Tennessee, and New York requiring it.

There’s no mandatory registration or certification needed to work as a sterile processing technician in Montana, however, it is recommended to get a certification.

Obtaining Certification

If you want to become a sterile processing technician, the most widely recognized credential is the Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST).

It is issued by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association, which is nationwide.

You’ll need to undergo a rigorous examination and complete hundreds of hours of training to obtain the certification.

On the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association website, there is a list of application resources and in-depth information about the process.

There are also two types of CRCST certifications available.

• Full CRCST Certification (Recommended)—Provide 400 hours of hands-on experience in the industry during the past five years preceding the application.
• Provisional Certification—Provide 400 hours of hands-on experience within six months of passing the certification exam.

As mentioned earlier, it’s common for sterile processing training or surgical technology programs to lead to obtaining your CRCST.

Sterile Processing Technician Schools in Montana

University of Montana

• The University of Montana offers a Surgical Technology Associate Degree, which is perfect for teaching you the practical skills and knowledge to enter the sterile processing industry.
• As part of the program, students will also undertake the National Certification Exam prior to graduation.
• Completion of this program and examination results in the credential of Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) and it is awarded by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
• The Surgical Technology program at UoM is accredited by the Committee on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.

Montana State University

• Thanks to the OneMSU Network, Montana State University now offers an AAS degree program to learn surgical technology.
• This program includes surgical technology classes in person or optionally online.
• Students will also get hands-on clinical training at either Bozeman, Billings, or Great Falls healthcare facilities.
• This two-year degree will also prepare you to sit a national examination to become a Certified Surgical Technologist.
• This Surgical Technology Program is accredited by the Accreditation Review Committee on Education in Surgical Technology & Surgical Assisting.

Ashworth College

• Ashworth College is a fully online learning institution available to students across the US.
• If you’re looking for more flexibility with your learning, Ashworth College’s online courses are a great opportunity.
• Students will also still get the chance for hands-on training and experience as they assist students with finding placements and work experience.
• Unlike some other sterile processing technician schools, financial aid is also available.
• Ashworth College will also prepare students to undergo the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association examination to obtain the Certified Registered Central Service Technician certification.

The New York Institute of Career Development

• Similarly to Ashworth College, this institution is open to students everywhere in the US and prepares them for the CRCST exam.
• Their program also has a well-developed network of job placements, which is invaluable for graduates.
• If in-person learning institutions aren’t feasible for you, it’s worth looking into The New York Institute of Career Development.
• The New York Institute of Career Development also has benefits, including nationwide industry certification, flexible studying, one-on-one support, and training/career tips from industry professionals.

Sterile Processing Technician Salary in Montana

Individually submitted data from Salary.com report that the average base pay for a certified sterile processing technician in Montana is around $32,613 a year.

This might seem low, but other websites, such as Indeed, list the “low” average pay at $62,658 and was last updated on November 2nd, 2023.

Salary will also depend on the years of experience of the sterile processing technician, as well as any certification and further studies.

Annual Salary Range: Annual Salary by Location:

Location	Avg. Annual Salary
Billings	$43,600
Missoula	$38,274
Great Falls	$39,915
Butte	$38,274
Bozeman	$38,274
Helena	$38,954
Kalispell	$40,588
Havre	$39,235
Anaconda	$38,274
Miles City	$42,920

Regional Salary in Montana

* 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

Are there any screening or background checks for studying sterile processing or surgical technology?

Yes.

Like other healthcare professions, you must undergo drug screening and background checks during study and employment.

Do you need to be vaccinated and immunized to work as a sterile processing technician?

Yes.

While you may not be in a front-facing role with patients, it’s still mandatory to have up-to-date vaccinations and immunizations.

While your employer might not check (but they usually do), it is required as part of the study process when you undergo formal qualifications.

Where can I expect to work as a sterile processing technician in Montana?

Great question!

The entire healthcare industry is your oyster if you want to work as a sterile processing technician.

You can work across all healthcare industry sectors, from helping surgeons in hospitals and medical centers to aged care and dental.

Sterile Processing Technician Info by State