Sterile Processing Technician Hourly Pay in Durham, NC: $21.28 (2026)

For those contemplating life as a sterile processing technician, understanding part-time earning potential and multiple employment arrangements becomes vital. A technician working a typical 24-hour week could take home about $25,000 annually if they maintain a part-time status. On the flip side, per diem sterile processing technician pay in Durham often ranges from $22 to $32 per hour, with additionally credentialed endoscope reprocessors potentially garnering even higher rates of $28 to $40 per hour. The rise of travel contracts, sometimes yielding $1,000 to $1,500 per week, has gained traction in recent years as staffing shortages become more common. However, the hourly rate varies significantly depending on the employer type, such as hospitals, specialty surgical centers, and third-party processing services. Those who opt for positions providing benefits may find themselves earning less per hour but securing job stability, while others might pursue higher hourly rates without benefits. For negotiating in Durham’s job market, approaching organizations that allow for flexible schedules and offering a solid foundation of certifications can be advantageous in achieving optimal pay.