Description

The Simulation Technology Specialist will be responsible for managing and administering the technology (software and hardware) used in the Virtual Education and Simulation (VEST) Center. The Simulation Technology Specialist will advise and consult with faculty, VEST Center administration, and the instructional support staff on the best practices for the integration of technology in simulation education. The principal role that the Simulation (IT/Engineering) Technology Specialist will fulfill is the maintenance and upgrade of the department’s software and hardware and the development of simulation technology.

Shift:

7a-3:30p or 7:30-4p
Primarily M-F, very little weekend commitment
No Holidays

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:   

Acts as an expert user and trainer of all simulators (high and low fidelity) and associated
software programs.

Acts as an expert in all other technical aspects in IT

Acts an expert in the use of the Learning Management systems

Acts as an expert in sophisticated virtual and/or conference capabilities.

Manages the preventive maintenance of simulation equipment according to manufacturers'
recommendations

Monitors scheduled maintenance to ensure that equipment is operational. Works with manufacturers or vendors to correct equipment deficiencies in order to minimize down time.

Prepares documentation and informational manuals for non-technical users

Installs original hardware provided by equipment and software suppliers

Directs hardware and software updates provided by equipment and software suppliers

Demonstrates and teaches technical aspects of operating simulators to faculty members and staff

Oversees the inventory of all simulation equipment

Assists and advises management in areas such as procurement of hardware, software and audio/visual equipment including; cost, installation and use, software modification, and user education, training and orientation

Provides technical recommendations for simulation improvements

Analyzes and resolves IT user problems

Collaborates with the Simulation Center staff to fulfill the duties on an as needed basis for the purpose of staff coverage

Programs patient care simulators

Sets up, operates, and manipulates patient care simulators, related media, and computer equipment

Operates instructional media equipment such as video cameras, multimedia computer systems, and audio and video distribution systems used in the Simulation Centers

Receives, set ups, and tests new simulators and related multimedia and computer equipment

Diagnoses more serious equipment malfunctions and arranges for repair; arranges for general maintenance and repair of simulation centers

Maintains maximum efficiency of operating equipment using available resources

Maintains proficiency in existing and emerging simulation technologies, including engineering advances and simulation theory/design/implementation, by self education; maintaining contacts in the academic, educational, and industrial arenas; acquiring and evaluating new equipment and materials; and participation in educational opportunities, both in-house and externally at national meetings

Operates manikins as needed for simulation sessions

Shadows clinical health professionals to maintain medical knowledge base

Attends one approved simulation conference per year or completes four approved web-based simulation education modules
Performs other related duties as required
 

SCOPE, PURPOSE, AND FREQUENCY OF CONTACTS:

Frequent contact with employees, visitors, medical staff, students, personnel of community and state agencies, suppliers, press, government officials, and the general public.

DIRECTION/SUPERVISION OF OTHERS:

Will supervise and train as needed Simulation Center staff and education facilitators on simulation equipment (soft and hardware)

DIRECTION/SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

Directly reports to the Simulation Specialist Coordinator and Simulation Education Coordinator

Requirements

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

B.S degree in Information Technology (IT), Computer Science, or Engineering (biomechanical or mechanical). M.S degree preferred
Minimum of one year of experience in a healthcare environment and/or knowledge of healthcare operations 
 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILL, AND ABILITY REQUIREMENTS:

Proficient with computer hardware equipment and software applications, including those relevant to simulator functions

Proficient in use of audio/visual equipment (i.e. video cameras, monitors, microphones), including recording, duplication, and editing

Ability to assess, troubleshoots, and fixes equipment problems in a timely fashion.

 
Strong written and verbal communication skills 

Self-motivated and ability to work independently 

Knowledge of patient simulation education, technologies, and application.

Proficiency in Windows operating systems, wired and wireless networks, database creation and use

Ability to perform technical skills and use equipment as outlined in procedures, protocols, and simulations demonstrating use of appropriate safety measures for students, employees, and self

Attends one approved simulation conference per year or completes four approved web-based simulation education modules
 

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to work around animals, latex, tissue and cadavers

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Ability to stand, walk, sit, bend, lift, push, pull, carry, reach, twist, handle, stoop, climb as per unit. Work requires occasional heavy lifting of equipment.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Primarily well-lighted, heated and air-conditioned indoor simulation center. Occasionally simulation sessions may occur outside the simulation center in whatever environment is being simulated

Frequent exposure to biological elements with occasional exposure to chemical and environmental elements as per unit