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Director, Sterile Processing Department SPD - Job Opportunity at Centra Health

Lynchburg, US
Full-time
Executive
Posted: June 17, 2025
On-site
USD 95,000 - 125,000 per year

Benefits

Competitive 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions to support long-term financial security
Comprehensive dental insurance coverage providing preventive and restorative care benefits
Full health insurance coverage offering medical protection and wellness programs
Generous paid time off package enabling work-life balance and personal well-being
Vision insurance benefits covering eye care and corrective lens expenses

Key Responsibilities

Lead comprehensive sterile processing operations across two major hospital facilities, directly impacting patient safety and surgical outcomes for the entire health system
Drive strategic budget management and financial oversight for departmental operations, optimizing resource allocation and operational efficiency
Provide executive leadership and professional development for supervisory and management teams, building organizational capability and succession planning
Ensure regulatory compliance excellence through implementation of AAMI, AORN, and IAHCSMM standards, maintaining accreditation and patient safety protocols
Spearhead operational improvements and quality initiatives that enhance department performance and support hospital-wide strategic objectives

Requirements

Education

Bachelors Degree in Healthcare Management or a related field

Experience

Minimum of five (5) years of Sterile Processing experience

Required Skills

Proficient in MS Office, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint Demonstrated knowledge of Project Management Six Sigma Organizational Behavior Change Management

Certifications

IAHCSMM CRCST Certification within one (1) year of hire
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

The sterile processing industry is experiencing significant transformation driven by increasing regulatory scrutiny and patient safety requirements, with hospitals investing heavily in advanced sterilization technologies and quality management systems to meet evolving standards. Healthcare systems are consolidating sterile processing operations across multiple facilities to achieve economies of scale and standardize processes, creating demand for senior leaders who can manage complex, multi-site operations. Infection prevention and control has become a critical focus area following the COVID-19 pandemic, elevating the strategic importance of sterile processing departments and requiring leaders with strong regulatory compliance expertise and change management capabilities. The integration of digital technologies, including tracking systems and automated sterilization equipment, is reshaping departmental operations and requiring leaders with project management and technology implementation experience. Healthcare labor shortages are particularly acute in sterile processing, with competition for experienced technicians and supervisors intensifying across the industry. This has led to increased emphasis on leadership development, retention strategies, and operational efficiency improvements to maintain service levels with constrained staffing resources.

Role Significance

Typically manages 40-80 staff members across multiple facilities, including supervisors, managers, and technical staff, with responsibility for organizational development and succession planning within the department.
Senior executive position with significant operational responsibility across multiple hospital facilities, requiring strategic leadership capabilities and comprehensive healthcare operations expertise. This role represents a critical leadership position within the health system's operational structure, with direct impact on patient safety outcomes and regulatory compliance across the organization.

Key Projects

Implementation of advanced sterilization technology systems and equipment upgrades across multiple facilities Development and execution of regulatory compliance programs to meet evolving AAMI, AORN, and IAHCSMM standards Leading operational efficiency initiatives using Six Sigma methodologies to improve throughput and reduce costs Managing departmental consolidation and standardization projects across hospital facilities Developing and implementing staff training and certification programs to address workforce challenges

Success Factors

Strong regulatory compliance expertise and ability to navigate complex healthcare standards while maintaining operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness Exceptional leadership and change management capabilities to guide teams through operational transformations and technology implementations Financial management acumen to optimize departmental budgets while investing in necessary equipment, technology, and staff development Deep understanding of sterile processing workflows and industry best practices to drive continuous improvement initiatives Collaborative relationship-building skills to work effectively with surgical teams, infection control committees, and hospital administration

Market Demand

High demand due to healthcare system consolidation trends and critical patient safety requirements

Important Skills

Critical Skills

IAHCSMM CRCST Certification represents the foundational credential for sterile processing leadership, demonstrating technical competency and commitment to industry standards that is essential for regulatory compliance and staff credibility Project Management expertise is crucial for leading technology implementations, process improvements, and facility consolidation initiatives that are common in modern healthcare operations Change Management capabilities are essential for navigating the rapidly evolving healthcare regulatory environment and implementing operational improvements while maintaining staff engagement and productivity Six Sigma methodology knowledge provides the analytical framework necessary for driving operational efficiency improvements and cost reduction initiatives that are critical for healthcare system sustainability

Beneficial Skills

CIS (Certified Instrument Specialist) and CHL (Certified Healthcare Leader) certifications would enhance technical credibility and leadership recognition within the healthcare industry Six Sigma Black Belt certification would provide advanced process improvement capabilities and project leadership credentials Advanced degree in Healthcare Management would strengthen strategic planning and healthcare operations expertise Experience with healthcare information systems and digital workflow management would support technology integration initiatives

Unique Aspects

Multi-facility leadership responsibility spanning two major hospitals creates exceptional operational complexity and strategic impact
Integration with advanced simulation and virtual learning center suggests access to cutting-edge training resources and professional development opportunities
Regional healthcare system leadership role in Central Virginia provides significant market influence and community impact
Comprehensive regulatory compliance responsibility across multiple standards organizations demonstrates the critical nature of the position
Direct budget management authority combined with staff leadership responsibilities creates substantial operational and financial accountability

Career Growth

3-5 years with demonstrated success in multi-site operations management and strategic leadership

Potential Next Roles

Chief Operating Officer or Vice President of Operations for healthcare systems Director of Perioperative Services overseeing surgical services, sterile processing, and related departments Regional Director of Operations managing multiple hospital facilities Healthcare consulting roles specializing in operational efficiency and regulatory compliance

Company Overview

Centra Health

Centra Health operates as a significant regional healthcare system in Central Virginia, serving a substantial population base with four hospitals and an extensive network of medical centers and specialty practices. The organization demonstrates commitment to advanced medical education and training through its Central Virginia Center for Simulation and Virtual Learning, indicating investment in cutting-edge healthcare delivery methods and staff development.

Well-established regional healthcare leader with strong market presence in Central Virginia, positioned as a major employer and healthcare provider in the Blue Ridge region with comprehensive service offerings and modern facilities.
Dominant healthcare system in the Central Virginia market with significant influence on regional healthcare delivery standards and employment opportunities, offering stability and growth potential for healthcare professionals in the region.
Nonprofit healthcare organization emphasizing patient care excellence, evidence-based practice, and diversity and inclusion, with strong focus on employee development and career partnership, suggesting a supportive and professionally-oriented work environment.
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