OR Supply Chain & SPD Supervisor

PURPOSE STATEMENT  

The OR Supply Chain & Sterile Processing (SPD) Supervisor is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of sterile processing and operating room supply chain functions. This role ensures the efficient reprocessing of surgical instruments and the effective management of inventory, supplies, and case cart systems to support safe, timely surgical procedures. The Supervisor serves as a key liaison between Sterile Processing, Operating Room staff, and Materials Management.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 

Sterile Processing Oversight

• Supervise daily operations of the Sterile Processing Department (SPD), including decontamination, assembly, sterilization, and distribution of surgical instruments 
• Ensure compliance with regulatory standards (AAMI, Joint Commission, OSHA) 
• Monitor quality assurance processes, including biological indicators, sterilization records, and instrument tracking systems 
• Provide staff training, competency validation, and performance management 
• Maintain equipment functionality and coordinate preventative maintenance 

Supply Chain & Inventory Management

• Oversee inventory control for operating room supplies, instruments, implants, and specialty items 
• Maintain optimal par levels to ensure case readiness while minimizing waste and excess cost 
• Coordinate procurement, vendor relations, and product evaluations 
• Analyze usage trends, cost data, and supply utilization to improve efficiency 
• Lead supply standardization initiatives and cost-containment strategies 

Case Cart & OR Coordination

• Supervise case cart assembly and delivery to ensure accurate, complete, and timely preparation for surgical procedures 
• Collaborate with OR scheduling and clinical teams to anticipate supply and instrument needs 
• Resolve supply or instrumentation issues in real time to avoid surgical delays 
• Support preference card accuracy and optimization 

Leadership & Collaboration

• Supervise and support SPD technicians
• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement 
• Serve as a liaison between OR staff, surgeons, vendors, and support departments 
• Participate in committees related to infection prevention, patient safety, and operational efficiency as warranted 

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILL 

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, or related field preferred 

Experience

• 3–5 years of experience in sterile processing, operating room support, or healthcare supply chain 
• Prior leadership or supervisory experience preferred 

Certifications (preferred)

• CRCST (Certified Registered Central Service Technician) 
• CIS (Certified Instrument Specialist) or CHL (Certified Healthcare Leader) 
• Supply chain certifications (e.g., healthcare materials management) are a plus 

Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of sterile processing standards and surgical workflows 
• Inventory management and supply chain optimization expertise 
• Leadership, staff development, and conflict resolution skills 
• Data analysis and cost control mindset 
• Excellent  communication and organizational abilities 
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment