Deputy Chief- Sterile Processing Service (SPS)

The Deputy Chief of Sterile Processing Service (SPS) is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the sterile processing department, ensuring the effective decontamination, sterilization, and distribution of medical instruments and equipment. This role involves managing a team of sterile processing technicians, coordinating with surgical and clinical staff to meet instrument needs, and maintaining compliance with infection control standards and regulatory requirements. Key responsibilities include developing and implementing policies and procedures for instrument processing, monitoring quality assurance programs, managing inventory and supply levels, and leading performance improvement initiatives. The Deputy Chief also provides training and education to staff on proper sterilization techniques, safety protocols, and equipment maintenance. Additionally, this position collaborates with nursing leadership to optimize workflow, troubleshoot equipment issues, and ensure the timely availability of sterile supplies for patient care. The role requires strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills to support a high-functioning sterile processing service within a healthcare setting.

Candidates must be a graduate of a school of professional nursing approved by the appropriate accrediting agency (e.g., ACEN or CCNE) and hold a current, full, active, and unrestricted registration as a graduate professional nurse in a state, territory, or commonwealth of the United States, or the District of Columbia. English language proficiency is required. For foreign nursing education, a formal degree equivalency validation from a recognized evaluation service is required for degrees beyond associate level. Minimum qualifications include a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) with at least two years of professional nursing experience equivalent to Nurse I, Level 3; or a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with one year of specialized nursing experience equivalent to Nurse I, Level 3; or a Master's degree in a related field with a BSN and one year of specialized nursing experience equivalent to Nurse I, Level 3; or a Doctoral degree in nursing with no professional nursing experience; or a Doctoral degree in a related field with a BSN and no additional professional nursing experience. For Nurse III level, an MSN and two years of specialized nursing experience, one year equivalent to Nurse II, is required. Physical requirements include the ability to perform duties in a healthcare environment.

VA Maine Healthcare System provides healthcare services to veterans, operating the Togus VA Medical Center in Augusta, Maine.