Career outlook for
Figures and forecasts for roles at the same level, which require similar skills and qualifications.
Average UK salary
Currently employed in Scotland
Jobs forecast
This information is supplied by LMI For All, where data is currently available for Scotland.
What's it like?
You would make sure that medical equipment is kept clean and safe for use with patients. You might look after items used in hospital wards, clinics or operating theatres.
You would:
- Collect items from wards, clinics and operating theatres
- Take apart items for cleaning
- Clean and sterilise all items
- Put pieces back together
- Check that all items work and are clean
- Deliver sterile items by trolley, to wards and departments
- Restock supplies of items such as dressings and syringes
- Operate a steam sterilising machine
You would use specialised equipment to clean large items.
It would be important to follow health and safety rules at all times.
Youcan see more about this role on the Decontamination and sterile services page on the NHS Careers website.
Working conditions
Hours
Environment
UK employment status
Full-time
Part-time
Self employed
Create a qualification route
We’ve found some examples of the qualifications that could help you get this job.
Discover my routeTop skills
Here are some of the skills that people in this job would be most likely to have:
- Communicating with people
- Working as part of a team
- Following instructions
- Working on your own
- Accuracy
- Being physically fit
- Paying attention to detail
Build your skills
Your skills can help you choose the career that’s right for you. You can build your skills through work, study or activities you do in your spare time.
To understand more, have a look at what are my skills?
Keep track of your skills in your account and find the jobs, opportunities and courses that suit you.
Click here to view / add your skillsGetting in
Entry requirements for courses can change. Always contact the college, university or training provider to check exactly what you’ll need.
Foundation Apprenticeships
Choosing a Foundation Apprenticeship as one of your subjects in S5 and S6 can help you get a head start with this type of job.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification (the same level as a Higher) plus valuable work placement experience and skills you can't learn in a classroom.
Interested? Find out what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
Qualifications
There are no formal qualifications required to enter this role but most employers value a good general education. Some employers may ask for qualifications at SCQF level 4/5.
Useful subjects
- English
- Maths
- Science
- Administration
- ICT
You will also need
- Clear handwriting for labelling the packs
- Basic IT skills
- Good eyesight for close work
- No skin problems
- To be physically fit and strong
Helpful to have
Qualifications that show understanding of the sector and of the requirements for sterile conditions such as Skills for Work Health Sector (SCQF level 4/5) or Laboratory Science (SCQF level 5).
A driving licence.
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