Assistant nurse, sterile center

What does a nursing assistant at a sterilization center do – tasks and work environment

A nursing assistant at a sterilization center works to ensure that instruments and medical equipment are properly cleaned, sterilized, and ready for use. Tasks include receiving used instruments, thorough cleaning, functional checks and assembly, packing, and sterilization according to established routines and quality standards. The work is often carried out in dedicated sterilization units at hospitals or larger healthcare facilities, where high demands for hygiene, precision, and responsibility are maintained. Collaboration with other healthcare staff is central, as is the ability to work methodically with a strong focus on patient safety.

Salary development over time

The salary for a nursing assistant at a sterilization center has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,300 SEK, which increased to 32 700 SEK in 2023 and further to 34 000 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 8.6% over the period, which is a relatively strong salary growth for the profession. The increase is partly due to rising demand for qualified sterilization technicians and a growing focus on hygiene and infection control in healthcare. Gender differences are small, with women earning slightly more on average than men, which is uncommon in many healthcare professions. The trend indicates continued positive salary development, especially as tasks become more specialized and technological content increases.

Complete overview of salary for nursing assistants at sterilization centers

• Average salary: 34 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,400 SEK/month (female, public sector, postgraduate education)
• Highest salary: 36,200 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, research degree)
• Hourly wage: 204 SEK/hour
• Women earn: 101% of what men do (women: 34 000 SEK, men: 33 800 SEK)
• Regional differences: Small, but slightly higher salaries in metropolitan areas and where demand for sterilization expertise is high.

Education and qualifications

To work as a nursing assistant at a sterilization center, a basic nursing assistant education is required, often with specialization in sterilization techniques or surgical services. The education is often supplemented with specific courses on sterilization management, hygiene routines, and medical technical equipment. Practical experience in healthcare environments is advantageous and sometimes required, and some employers also require certification in sterilization techniques.

• Formal education: Nursing assistant training (high school level or adult education, approx. 1.5 years)
• Specialized courses: Sterilization techniques, hygiene, and instrument care
• Practical training: On-the-job training at sterilization units or surgical departments
• Certification: Certification options in sterilization techniques through vocational colleges or employers
• Prerequisites: Experience in healthcare or medical technology is advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Nursing assistants at sterilization centers are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, shift bonuses for evenings and weekends, wellness allowances, and opportunities for skills development and further education. Some employers also provide subsidized lunches, staff discounts, and extra vacation days depending on employment type and sector.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a nursing assistant at a sterilization center is assessed as moderate, with a balance between supply and demand according to the Swedish Employment Service’s forecast. However, increasing specialization in the field requires higher technical competence and precision, which can make it more difficult for less experienced individuals to establish themselves quickly. The work environment is often physically demanding, with monotonous tasks and high hygiene requirements, posing psychological and physical challenges. Ongoing training and adaptation to new routines are necessary to meet evolving healthcare needs.

Tips for those who want to become a nursing assistant at a sterilization center

To succeed as a nursing assistant at a sterilization center, it’s good to combine meticulousness with a genuine interest in technology and hygiene. Being organized helps manage many different instruments and documentation, while stress tolerance is crucial during busy periods when many departments need quick deliveries. Good teamwork skills facilitate contact with surgical staff and other healthcare personnel, and a solution-oriented mindset helps quickly handle unexpected situations. Showing flexibility and openness to further education often provides opportunities for career advancement. A strong sense of responsibility and patient safety are central qualities, as are patience and perseverance with repetitive and monotonous tasks.

Key facts about nursing assistants at sterilization centers

• Education level: Nursing assistant training with specialization in sterilization techniques
• Work environment: Hospitals or larger healthcare facilities, high hygiene standards
• Typical work pattern: Shift work, often evenings and weekends
• Demand: Moderate with increasing needs over 5 years
• Special knowledge: Sterilization techniques and medical technical equipment

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, there are opportunities to develop into sterilization technicians, supervisors at sterilization units, or further training as surgical assistants. Some choose to specialize in medical technology or instrument care, while others move into administrative roles within healthcare. According to the Swedish Employment Service’s forecast, job opportunities are currently moderate but are expected to increase over the next five years. The job market is balanced, but technical skills and specialization can be advantageous during recruitment. Currently, there are 375 job openings nationwide in this profession.

Common questions about nursing assistants at sterilization centers

• What does a nursing assistant at a sterilization center earn?
  - The average salary is 34 000 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 204 SEK.
• Are there differences in salaries between women and men?
  - Women earn on average 34 000 SEK and men 33 800 SEK; women earn approximately 101% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to work at a sterilization center?
  - Nursing assistant training with additional courses in sterilization techniques and hygiene is recommended.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Demand is expected to increase over the next five years, and the job market is balanced.
• What tasks are included in the role?
  - Cleaning, inspection, sterilization, and packing of medical instruments, as well as quality control.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Meticulousness, stress tolerance, teamwork skills, and technical interest are central qualities.
• Are there opportunities for further education?
  - Yes, there are courses and certifications in sterilization techniques and opportunities for career development.