Sterile Processing Technician Hourly Pay in Nashville, TN: $23.69 (2026)

In Nashville, the sterile processing technician hourly pay is projected to reach $23.69 in 2026, positioning it slightly above the national hourly median of $22.94. This competitive rate indicates a viable income for both full-time and part-time positions in various healthcare settings, such as hospital sterile processing departments, ambulatory surgery centers, and dental specialty practices. With the hourly pay ranging from $17.93 for entry-level technicians to as much as $29.77 for highly experienced professionals, there are ample opportunities for advancement within this field. For those considering part-time work at three days a week, the flexibility may suit their lifestyle while still providing a substantial hourly income that exceeds many other roles requiring similar levels of training.

When exploring part-time earnings, a sterile processing technician working 24 hours per week could take home approximately $28,005 annually, significantly less than the full-time average. Per diem opportunities can shift this dynamic, as these technicians often earn between $22 and $32 per hour; those certified in endoscope reprocessing can command up to $40 hourly on a contract basis. Nashville's job market also includes diverse employer types, where hourly wages can vary widely, depending on whether the technician is employed at a hospital, surgery center, or a third-party provider. This variation often leads technicians to weigh the benefits of lower-paying jobs that provide health insurance against higher hourly rates with fewer benefits. For those entering the field, gaining certifications like CRCST and CIS may provide leverage in salary negotiations, helping to secure a role that meets both their financial and professional needs in the evolving sterile processing landscape in TN.