Unlocking a Lucrative Career in Healthcare: The Rise of Surgical Equipment Sterilization
A relatively unknown opportunity in the medical profession is gaining attention, particularly among Gen Z individuals seeking low-investment career options. Surgical equipment sterilizers, a role that requires no college degree, are in high demand and can earn upwards of $70,000 annually. This career path presents a straight shot to the middle class without the burden of costly educational investments.
According to a report, medical equipment preparer roles are expected to increase by 6% from 2021 to 2031, surpassing the national growth average for all domestic occupations. The need for this role is clear: hospitals require properly disinfected equipment to prevent disease transmission between patients. As reported by Yahoo Lifestyle, an entry-level role in the profession can earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, with less training required compared to other medical professions.
Fatima el Idrissi, a 38-year-old who completed her surgical equipment sterilization training, shared her experience with The Wall Street Journal, saying, "I had never heard of this job. Now I’ve got a first step in a hospital, so I can go on to other medical fields if I want." This role serves as a gateway to better-paying jobs in the industry, including surgical or radiology technicians, who can earn salaries of $100,000 and $400,000, respectively.
A Match Made in Heaven: Healthcare and Gen Z
Despite over 4 million Gen Z individuals facing challenges in their careers, there are numerous opportunities for this generation to tap into lesser-known jobs. In 2024, approximately 6.2 million new job openings did not require a bachelor’s or associate’s degree, with 72% residing in understaffed industries like healthcare, according to a study from the Burning Glass Institute. As Yahoo Lifestyle reports, a significant part of this issue can be attributed to people being unaware of these jobs, with their sights set on more well-known roles like physicians, nurses, and physical therapists.
About 18% of the class of 2025, Gen Z’s newest working cohort, plans to pursue a career in the healthcare industry, according to a 2025 report from Monster. This presents a perfect opportunity for the generation to carve a pathway for a long-term career, particularly in a field that aligns with their values and provides a sense of fulfillment. As noted by Yahoo Lifestyle, the healthcare industry is the second most sought-after professional field for graduates, trailing slightly behind business.
What it Takes to Get into Surgical Equipment Sterilization
Unlike other medical professions, surgical equipment sterilizers do not require multiple advanced degrees. El Idrissi, like many others in her profession, took a relatively short course to jump-start her work. She attended LaGuardia Community College, which offers a central service technician certificate that can be completed in under a year and costs a fraction of the price of a 4-year degree, at just $1,500. The only qualifications required are a high school diploma or equivalency and English-language proficiency.
Students who complete the course must also complete a 400-hour internship after training and can receive job placement support. As Yahoo Lifestyle highlights, this career path provides a unique opportunity for Gen Z individuals to enter the healthcare industry with minimal investment and maximize their earning potential.
By exploring alternative career paths like surgical equipment sterilization, Gen Z individuals can unlock a lucrative and in-demand profession in the healthcare industry. With its relatively low barriers to entry and potential for career advancement, this role presents an attractive option for those seeking a stable and fulfilling career.
