Dental Sterilization Technician

The Dental Sterilization Technician II will work under general supervision; is responsible for the cleaning and sterilizing of equipment, supplies, and instruments used by the student clinics. Supervises the assembly of instruments and supply packs; acts as principal operator of the sterilizing equipment and performs other duties as assigned. Work flexible hour in support of the mission and task assigned.

Essential Functions (Principal Duties and Job Responsibilities):

• Supervises the cleaning and the sterilization of equipment, supplies, and instruments:  sterilizes instruments, equipment, supplies such as surgical packs, treatment trays, and syringes, using steam or chemical sterilizing agents; places articles in sterilizer and processes according to the manufacturer’s instructions; operates both semiautomatic and automatic sterilization equipment.
• Supervises the assembly of instruments and supplies on trays; the preparation of packs of supplies and instruments, and treatment trays according to prescribed procedures; wrapping, labeling and sealing of packs; prepares list of contents and affixes list to package or groups of packages; checks operation of sterilizers and cleaning equipment; checks functioning of autoclave valves; prepares test packs to determine effectiveness of sterilization process; reviews test graphs and checks functioning of autoclave valves; prepares test packs to determine effectiveness of sterilization process; reviews test graphs and checks functioning of autoclaves for airlocks, thoroughness of spray and noting duration of sterilization process, temperature level, etc.
• Provides assistance to other technicians by answering questions regarding use of sterilization equipment, preparation of solutions and general operating procedures; assists other technicians with the preparation of special treatment trays and surgical packs; assists with the orientation and training of new employees.
• Supervises Dental Sterilization Tech I and Dental Sterilization Transporter I.
• Performs related and occasionally other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

• Ability to assemble treatment and trays for sterilization.
• Ability to follow rules and procedures for cleaning, assembling supplies and equipment for sterilization.
• Has working knowledge of sterilization techniques and procedures as well as OSHA guidelines.
• Ability to operate semiautomatic and automatic sterilizing equipment.
• Ability to supervise the work of others.
• Ability to work with others to establish and maintain an effective working relationship.
• Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely orally and in writing.
• Usual office and lab environment
• Able to sit, stand or walk for extended periods of time

Education and Experience Required:

• High School Diploma, or GED and one (1) to two (2) years of college preferred or three years related work, CNT preferred.

Salary Range: $15.44 - $19.58

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Meharry Medical College complies with Title IX and is an affirmative action employer. Candidates will be considered for employment without discrimination for an non-merit reason such as race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, handicap or veteran status.