***THIS IS AN ONSITE POSITIN IN THE WGU NURSING LEARNING LAB. MUST BE AVAILABLE TO WORK A MONDAY - FRIDAY 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM SCHEDULE**
The Simulation Technician Specialist works with the Learning Lab Instructor to facilitate high‑fidelity simulation scenarios using patient manikins for nursing students at all levels of learning in on‑site Learning Labs. Manages simulation lab supplies, performs pre‑simulation activities, assists with simulation scenarios, and performs post‑simulation activities. Responsible for the technical setup, operation, maintenance, and support of simulation equipment used in training and education. Provides administrative support and coordination for the department and lab site in which they work. This role is responsible for the efficient operation of the lab site, including supporting department employees with operational needs and creating positive working relationships throughout WGU. This position reports to the Supervisor, Lab Faculty.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities
- Serves as a professional role model for students in dress, communication, deportment, problem solving, care delivery, and patient advocacy to facilitate student socialization into the profession.
- Demonstrates understanding of and participates in implementation of the philosophy and goals of the nursing program.
- Gives and accepts feedback on simulation program initiatives to obtain desired outcomes.
- Supports daily operations of the learning lab.
- Manages lab supplies inventory using a simulation center management application. Reports low par levels to Lab Supervisor for approval to order additional supplies and follows the ordering process through WGU approved vendors.
- Orients students to the simulation lab.
- Maintains currency in field standards and equipment.
- Provides orientation to new Simulation Technicians during onboarding to the WGU model and standards for the simulation program. Cross‑trains Learning Lab Instructors during onboarding to simulation technology and equipment.
- Prepares, sets up, and maintains simulation equipment, including manikins. Programs scenarios and troubleshoots technical issues.
- Conducts routine maintenance and updates on lab equipment to ensure optimal function per WGU standard operating procedures.
- Provides feedback for improving simulation experiences using evidence‑based simulation standards and guidelines.
- Researches, creates, applies, and removes moulage/special effects appropriate to the simulation scenario to increase realism.
- Supports and participates in department meetings and the Pre‑licensure Simulation Committee, assisting in establishing goals, strategies, and executing plans.
- Assists in planning and scheduling Learning Lab space for student lab experiences and other events.
- Processes incoming and outgoing mail, prepares items for shipment, and receives deliveries of supplies and equipment.
- Changes and launders linen onsite per WGU standard operating procedures and as needed to support lab resource needs.
- Performs pre‑simulation activities.
- Programs patient scenarios and sets up control room for simulation activity.
- Sets up simulation room for simulation scenario.
- Sets up recording in the simulation center management application.
- Performs simulation activities.
- Pre‑briefs students, staff, and faculty to the simulation environment.
- Operates simulation console and software.
- Operates instructional media equipment such as video cameras and audio‑visual (AV) distribution.
- Records simulation activities in the simulation center management application.
- Assists faculty in monitoring students' safety in the learning lab experience.
- Provides theatrical support (including moulage and voice‑over) to create realism.
- Performs post‑simulation activities.
- Assists faculty in operating debriefing equipment.
- Provides feedback for improving simulation experience.
- Retrieves non‑consumable supplies, repackages, and returns them to assigned location.
- Ensures simulation activity recording files are available to faculty for education and training during debrief sessions.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Ability to work with computers (PC or Mac). Experience required.
- Ability to work with Microsoft Office programs—Excel, Word, PowerPoint.
- Ability to work with a simulation center management application.
- Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule (early mornings, late evenings may be required).
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Experience working in a simulation lab with manikins.
- Excellent organizational skills and ability to think logically and follow directions.
- Creativity and flexibility in designing innovative approaches to solving problems.
- Commitment to utilizing simulation methodology in learning and its ability to transform nursing education.
- Comfortable with technology, willing to learn.
Organizational Impact
- Tasks are accomplished by following a defined standard or set of procedures to achieve day‑to‑day objectives with direct impact on the area of specialty. The work is performed under moderate supervision and consists of routine tasks that may require advice and guidance from more senior personnel in the same area.
Problem Solving and Decision Making
- Reviews solutions and employs minor adjustments to work methods to solve problems that are routine and typically exist in current work processes and systems. May highlight areas of concern/issues and offer potential solutions. Problems and issues faced are generally routine but may require interpretation of procedures or policies to resolve.
Communication and Influence
- Communication with contacts within the job area is typical, and information that is provided or obtained may require some explanation or interpretation to reach agreement.
Leadership & Talent Management
- May provide minimal guidance and assistance to new or entry‑level employees.
Job Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
- Requires basic knowledge of standards and processes within a narrow scope of work.
- A high school diploma or equivalency is required.
- A minimum of 3 years of professional work experience is required.
Preferred Qualifications
- Vocational or technical education in addition to prior work experience is preferred.
- Health care and computers/technology experience is preferred.
- Experience in simulation‑based education is preferred.
Physical Requirements
- Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
- Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.
Disclaimer
This Job Description has been designed to indicate the general nature, essential duties, and responsibilities of work performed by employees within this classification. It does not contain a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications that are required of the employee to do this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. This Job Description does not constitute a contract of employment and the University may exercise its employment‑at‑will rights at any time.