Instrument Sterilization Technician -Trainee

Job Summary:

The University of Colorado, School of Dental Medicine (SDM) is looking for a full-time Sterilization Technician Trainee. Under the direction of the Clinical Support Services department leadership, our Sterilization Technicians support clinical operations for the entire School of Dental Medicine (SDM). These positions are integral to dental education clinical operations, focusing on sterilization and sterile processing with the opportunity for training and career growth in a healthcare industry.

Key Responsibilities:

Instrument and Equipment Sterilization – 85% (Essential Function)

• Perform cleaning and decontamination of all instruments and equipment according to established procedures and techniques.

• Ensure proper cleaning of sanitizing machines and related equipment.

• Sterilize instruments and maintain adequate levels of sterilized items for distribution.

• Inventory cassettes and instruments for precise disbursement to operatories and clinical units.

• Monitor the sterilization cycle to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.

• Conduct routine checks to ensure all equipment is functioning properly.

• Report and document malfunctions or needed repairs to maintain operational standards.

• Perform minor repairs or adjustments to sanitizing machines as required.

• Oversee the collection of used instruments and equipment to initiate the sterilization process.

• Maintain accurate records of collected items to support tracking and compliance.

• Coordinate with staff to ensure timely and efficient collection practices.

Instrument Distribution – 15% (Essential Function)

• Prepare specialized instrument set-ups for use by undergraduate students, residents, and faculty.

• Collaborate with academic and clinical staff to identify specific set-up needs.

• Ensure that specialized instruments are sterilized and ready for patient treatment sessions.

• Issue sterile reusable instruments to operatories and clinical units.

• Collect and resterilize used instruments.

Work Location:

Onsite – this role is expected to work onsite and is located in Aurora, CO.

Why Join Us:

Why work for the University?

We have AMAZING benefits and offer exceptional amounts of holiday, vacation and sick leave! The University of Colorado offers an excellent benefits package including:

• Medical\: Multiple plan options

• Dental\: Multiple plan options

• Additional Insurance\: Disability, Life, Vision

• Retirement 401(a) Plan\: Employer contributes 10% of your gross pay

• Paid Time Off\: Accruals over the year

• Vacation Days\: 22/year (maximum accrual 352 hours)

• Sick Days\: 15/year (unlimited maximum accrual)

• Holiday Days\: 10/year

• Tuition Benefit\: Employees have access to this benefit on all CU campuses

• ECO Pass\: Reduced rate RTD Bus and light rail service

There are many additional perks & programs with the CU Advantage.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

• None

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with dental instrument terminology. 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Excellent interpersonal skills 

• Excellent communication (written and verbal); ability to interact with sterilization staff and supervisor on a daily basis to meet the demands of clinical and educational operations. 

• In-depth understanding and demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities in proper decontamination, sterilization, and instrument preparation. 

How to Apply:

For full consideration, please submit the following document(s):

1. A letter of interest describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position

2. Curriculum vitae / Resume

3. Three to five professional references, including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address

Questions should be directed to\: Jordan Burt, [email protected]

Screening of Applications Begins:

Immediately and continues until position is filled. For best consideration, apply by 6/15/26

Anticipated Pay Range:

The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as $39,520- $45,886 annually

The above salary range (or hiring range) represents the University’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. This position may be eligible for overtime compensation, depending on the level.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Total Compensation Calculator

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

ADA Statement:

The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at [email protected]​.

Background Check Statement:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background investigations for all prospective employees.

Vaccination Statement:

CU Anschutz strongly encourages vaccination against the COVID-19 virus and other vaccine preventable diseases. If you work, visit, or volunteer in healthcare facilities or clinics operated by our affiliated hospital or clinical partners or by CU Anschutz, you will be required to comply with the vaccination and medical surveillance policies of the facilities or clinics where you work, visit, or volunteer, respectively. In addition, if you work in certain research areas or perform certain safety sensitive job duties, you must enroll in the occupational health medical surveillance program.