Sterile Processing Technician Hourly Pay in Waterloo, IA: $19.02 (2026)

Part-time sterile processing technicians can expect varying earnings based on their schedules. Working three days a week, a tech earning the median hourly rate might take home around $29,738 annually, significantly less than their full-time counterparts. In contrast, many per diem sterile processing technicians clock in bills between $22 and $32 per hour, reflecting the increasing demand for flexible staffing solutions. In specialty areas like endoscope reprocessing, which is experiencing rapid growth due to heightened infection control measures, certified technicians might command rates as high as $28 to $40 in agency settings. Moreover, the compensation may differ across various employers in Waterloo, with hospitals typically offering lower base rates compared to specialty practices or third-party services, where higher hourly wages might attract applicants seeking better benefits. This trade-off is common, as some technicians may prefer the stability of a position with health benefits over a higher hourly wage devoid of perks. Negotiating a favorable hourly rate can also be key; professionals should consider articulating their credentials, especially if they hold multiple certifications from organizations like HSPA, to improve their market position in this growing field.