Medical Equipment Preparers

People in this career spend their days preparing, sterilizing, installing, and cleaning medical and laboratory equipment. They operate specialized machinery to disinfect tools and inspect items to ensure they meet strict safety and cleanliness standards. Documenting information, handling physical objects, and monitoring processes are key parts of the daily routine. These workers must communicate closely with supervisors and peers to keep operations running smoothly and safely.

This role is a strong fit for individuals with realistic interests who enjoy practical, hands-on tasks. Success in this field requires strong skills in critical thinking, quality control analysis, and active listening. Workers must understand biology, chemistry, public safety, and customer service. Because patient safety depends on their work, these professionals must show high attention to detail, dependability, and cautiousness. They also need to maintain self-control and tolerate stress in fast-paced healthcare environments.

To enter this field, candidates typically need a high school diploma. This occupation is classified as requiring some preparation, meaning most workers receive on-the-job training or have previous work experience to learn the necessary procedures. Students interested in this pathway often study college majors related to clinical or medical laboratory science, research, and allied professions.

While not always mandatory, obtaining professional credentials can help candidates stand out. Several certifications are available through industry organizations. The Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution offers credentials such as the Certified Ambulatory Surgery Technician, the Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician, and the Certified Surgical Instrument Specialist. Additionally, the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association offers the Certified Instrumentation Specialist and the Certified Registered Central Service Technician designations.

In 2025, the median annual pay for these workers was $47,700. This means half of the workers in this field earned more than this amount, while the other half earned less. The lowest 10% of earners made less than $36,410, and the highest 10% earned more than $69,950.

There were 77,420 people employed in this occupation. Between 2025 and 2035, employment is projected to grow by 10.8%, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth, combined with workers leaving the field or retiring, is expected to create 10,700 job openings each year.