Infection Preventionist

Tuolumne-Me--wuk-Indian-Health-Center,-Inc.; California; On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Tuolumne Me-Wuk Indian Health Center, Inc. is seeking an Infection Preventionist to lead our IPC program across clinic sites.

This role focuses on risk assessment, policy development, staff education, outbreak response, and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations and accreditation standards. The position reports to the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) and requires strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills to guide infection control initiatives and collaborate with medical,

Qualifications

• Current California RN license with at least 1 year in infection prevention and control.
• Certification in Infection Prevention and Control (CBIC) or a-IPC, or willing to obtain within 12 months of hire.
• BLS certification is required; valid California driver’s license with insurable driving record.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain the Infection Prevention and Control Program across all sites.
• Conduct annual infection risk assessments and report findings to leadership.
• Lead surveillance, auditing, and reporting of infection data; ensure regulatory compliance.

Skills

Infection prevention knowledge

Data collection & analysis

Staff education & training

Interpersonal communication

Leadership & independent work

Education

California RN license

Bachelor’s/Master in Nursing or Public Health (preferred)

Tools

CBIC/CIC certification

a-IPC certification

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTIONJoin our team at the Tuolumne Me-Wuk Indian Health Center, where we offer more than just a job - we provide a community-focused environment with competitive salaries, exceptional benefits, and a true work-life balance.Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, and a 401(k) plan, ensuring you and your family are well cared for. Plus, take advantage of Indian Health Service Loan Forgiveness opportunities to advance your career while reducing your student debt.Located in the heart of California’s Sierra Nevada foothills, our location offers not just a fulfilling career but the chance to explore a region full of stunning landscapes and outdoor recreation. Spend your days helping others grow professionally and your evenings and weekends hiking through serene mountain trails, kayaking on pristine lakes, or enjoying the charm of historic Downtown Sonora. With its vibrant culture, unique shops, and year-round festivals, you’ll find endless ways to connect and thrive.Whether you’re seeking professional growth or outdoor excitement, Tuolumne County is the perfect place to build your future. Apply today and start your next adventure with us!POSITION OVERVIEW:Title: Infection PreventionistReports To: Chief Medical Officer (CMO)Schedule: M-F; 8am-5pmStatus: ExemptSummary: Under the general direction of the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), the Infection Preventionist serves as the designated lead for the Tuolumne Me-Wuk Indian Health Center (TMWIHC) Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Program across all clinic sites. This role is responsible for preventing and controlling infections through risk assessment, surveillance, policy development, staff education, outbreak and exposure response, and compliance with all applicable healthcare regulations, guidelines, and accreditation standards.PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: (Will include but not limited to)Program Leadership and Compliance:• Develop, implement, and maintain the written Infection Prevention and Control Program, policies, and procedures in accordance with all applicable healthcare regulations, guidelines, and accreditation standards; review and update as requirements change.• Conduct and document an annual infection prevention and control risk assessment for all clinic sites and use the results to establish program priorities, goals, and action plans.• Maintain and update all exposure control plans and programs required under applicable laws and standards, including respiratory protection and fit testing, sharps injury tracking and safer device evaluation, and related annual training.• Has the authority to stop an unsafe infection prevention practice or remove equipment from service pending review, and promptly notifies the CMO of any such action.• Prepare for and participate in accreditation surveys and regulatory inspections and lead corrective action on identified deficiencies.Surveillance, Auditing, and Reporting:• Conduct routine infection control rounds and audits, including hand hygiene, personal protective equipment (PPE) use, safe injection practices, environmental cleaning, and patient care area readiness.• Monitor cleaning, disinfection, high-level disinfection, and sterilization processes in clinic areas.• Oversee biological (spore) testing of all sterilizers, including dental sterilizers, and the maintenance of test documentation.• Oversee dental unit waterline testing and maintenance, and the maintenance of related documentation.• Monitor and report on the incidence and trends of infections and communicable diseases; coordinate required reporting to local public health authorities.• Collect, analyze, and interpret infection prevention data; present findings and recommendations to the Quality Improvement Committee, healthcare teams, and leadership.• Support antimicrobial stewardship activities in collaboration with medical providers.Outbreak and Exposure Response:• Investigate and respond to reports of infections and potential exposures; coordinate post-exposure follow-up and documentation in collaboration with appropriate medical staff and Risk Staff.• Coordinate response efforts during infection outbreaks, identify sources, and implement containment measures; serve as liaison with Tuolumne County Public Health and other agencies as appropriate.• Support emergency preparedness planning related to infectious disease events.Education and Collaboration:• Train staff on infection prevention techniques and protocols on an ongoing basis. Validate competencies and maintain training records.• Provide guidance and education to patients and families on infection prevention measures.• Consult on construction and renovation projects, and on the selection of disinfectants, PPE, and equipment, to identify and mitigate infection risks.• Collaborate with medical, dental, and nursing leadership, facilities, and other staff to develop and implement infection prevention initiatives.• Stay current with infection prevention practices, regulations, and guidance through continuing education.• Perform other duties as assigned.QUALIFICATIONS:Minimum Qualifications:Education and Experience:Current, active, and unencumbered California Registered Nurse (RN) license, with at least one (1) year with direct responsibility for infection prevention and control activities in a healthcare setting.Certifications and Licenses:• Certification in Infection Prevention and Control (CIC) through the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology (CBIC); or Associate – Infection Prevention and Control (a-IPC) certification, or willing to obtain within twelve (12) months of hire.• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.• Valid California driver’s license and an insurable driving record.Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:• Knowledge of all applicable healthcare regulations, guidelines, and accreditation standards related to infection prevention and control.• Knowledge of cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization practices, including in dental settings.• Proficiency in data collection, analysis, and reporting.• Experience in staff education and training.• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills.• Ability to work independently and effectively in a fast-paced environment and to manage multiple priorities during outbreak or exposure events.Preferred Qualifications:• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Nursing, Public Health, or a related healthcare field.• CIC certification.• Infection prevention experience in an ambulatory, primary care, dental, community health center, or tribal health setting.• Experience in epidemiology or public health.• Experience with healthcare accreditation surveys.• Experience working with Native American populations in a healthcare setting; 2+ years preferred.PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:This position requires walking, standing, and sitting for prolonged periods of time; climbing stairs, step-stools, etc.; stooping, kneeling, crouching, balancing, and reaching; pushing, pulling and lifting up to 30 pounds; raising objects overhead; manual dexterity for operation of computer and phones; hearing, talking, and good verbal and written communication skills; repetitive motions of the wrists, hands, and fingers; subject to outside environmental conditions of heat and cold; and walking on uneven ground. The position requires the ability to safely operate and drive a motor vehicle.EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AND INDIAN PREFERENCE:Tuolumne Me-Wuk Indian Health Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing a diverse and inclusive workplace.In accordance with the Indian Preference Act (25 U.S.C. §§ 472 & 473) and Public Law 93-638, qualified Native American and Alaskan Native applicants will be given preference, provided appropriate documentation is submitted. In-house postings also include Tribal Voting Members.All positions require cultural sensitivity and the ability to interact respectfully and effectively with diverse tribal communities.Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment TB test, background check, and drug screening.