Simulation Operations Specialist

Under the direction of the Administrative Director for the Clinical Simulation and Education Center, the Simulation Operation Specialist will serve an essential role in simulation programs at the Interprofessional Health Sciences Campus. This in-person role provides hands-on expertise to facilitate and support simulation experiences.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the smooth operation of simulation experiences, including developing technology infrastructure as required based on the objectives of the events.
• Serve as simulator operator by programming, testing, running, and video capturing scenarios, ensuring the facility and equipment are set up for teaching and assessment sessions.
• Program and maintain manikin-based simulation software and equipment for all simulation sessions.
• Act as a technology resource for standardized patients, students, and faculty during simulation experiences.
• Liaise with faculty for accessing recording systems and archived simulation recordings.
• Procure materials and consumable supplies to support simulation experiences as needed (40% of time).
• Prepare spaces, equipment, and simulators for enhanced realism, including set-up with medical equipment, moulage, and case materials.
• Participate in shared tasks related to preparation of task trainers, maintenance of simulation equipment, organization of equipment, inventory control, and laundry management.
• Train faculty and other Simulation Center staff in the operational aspects and equipment of simulation (25% of time).
• Facilitate and conduct routine maintenance, install software and hardware upgrades, and maintain functionality of manikin components as directed by manufacturer support.
• Troubleshoot equipment as needed and participate in technical training to stay current with simulation technology (10% of time).
• Create innovative ideas, evaluate new equipment, and identify opportunities for technological improvement and integration into healthcare education.
• Communicate professionally with faculty instructors, students, and stakeholders of the Simulation Center.
• Serve as a liaison between IT and the Hackensack Meridian Health School of Medicine.
• Assist with special projects, open house events, and other initiatives as needed (10% of time).
• Establish and maintain vital records and statistics pertaining to simulation, ensuring data security according to university and center policies.
• Assist in ensuring HIPAA and FERPA compliance (5% of time).
• Support simulation programming for research-related activities, including evenings or weekends with advanced notice.
• Maintain certification in Healthcare Simulation to comply with off-hour requirements (10% of time).

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a health profession, education, simulation, or related area of study, or an Associate’s degree in a relevant area with a minimum of 5 years of professional work experience in a health-related setting.
• CPR certification.
• Ability to work under pressure in high-impact environments.
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and leadership experience.

Desired Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a related field.
• Certification from the Society for Simulation in Healthcare.
• Previous healthcare simulation experience.
• Technical certifications.
• Previous experience as a healthcare clinician or employment in a healthcare setting.

Skills

• Specialized knowledge or training: Understanding of simulator technologies, including anatomic models, task trainers, screen-based simulations, full-body patient simulators, and virtual reality surgical simulators. Proficiency in existing and emerging technologies, including basic theory, design, and implementation. Knowledge of medical terminology, human anatomy/physiology, and healthcare documentation systems.
• Analytical: Ability to assess, troubleshoot, and fix equipment failures in a timely manner. Strong problem-solving skills with creativity and flexibility in designing innovative solutions.
• Project/process management: Ability to work with limited supervision, strong organizational and multitasking skills, and dedicated attention to detail. Ability to maintain confidentiality and use sound independent judgment.
• Computer/technical: Proficiency with simulation equipment, hardware, and software. Working knowledge of computer functionality, telecommunications, audio and video equipment, and ability to quickly learn new technology. Experience with or willingness to learn Laerdal, METI, Gaumard, SimuLab, and other simulation systems.
• Clerical/secretarial: Proficiency in MS Office applications (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint), internet, and database use.
• Written communications: Strong written communication skills, able to communicate effectively and professionally with supervisors, co-workers, faculty, vendors, and students.
• Oral communications: Strong verbal communication skills, able to interact professionally with diverse groups.
• Interpersonal: Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills. Ability to establish and maintain effective and harmonious work relations with faculty, staff, students, and the public while exercising discretion and confidentiality, especially regarding HIPAA and FERPA.

Working Conditions

• Professional office setting with a heavy workload in an academic and simulation environment.
• Occasional pressures due to short lead times, conflicting priorities, and the complex nature of the simulation center.
• Extensive sitting, use of a computer, and ability to manipulate equipment (high and low fidelity simulation).
• Flexibility in schedule required, including availability for some early mornings, occasional evenings, and weekend work.
• Ability to give tours on short notice.

Pay

Salary range: $60,000 - $82,500 (exempt position).

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package, including bundled medical, prescription, and vision insurance.
• Dental and life insurance.
• Retirement plan.