Regional Infection Preventionist

St. Mary's Health Care System; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

St. Mary’s Health Care System is seeking an Infection Preventionist to develop and implement system-wide infection control policies in a day-shift, full-time role in Georgia. The IP will support compliance with TJC, OSHA, and state regulations while coordinating staff training and surveillance efforts.

The position emphasizes collaboration with leadership, mentorship of IP staff, and driving quality improvements through data analysis and performance activities.

Qualifications

• Must hold a degree in health science or related field with applicable experience.
• APIC basic infection control training is desired; CIC preferred.
• 3–5 years in acute care infection prevention/ control.
• Experience leading training sessions and committees.
• Data collection and analysis skills for performance improvement.

Responsibilities

• Assist with implementing the infection control program and plans.
• Co-chair the Infection Control Committee and lead activities.
• Coordinate assessment of hospital compliance with infection controls.
• Develop staff training programs on infection prevention practices.
• Lead special projects related to infection control needs.
• Oversee daily infection prevention and surveillance activities.
• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately.

Skills

Leadership abilities

Oral & written communication

Organizational skills

Data interpretation & presentations

Computer skills (Word, Excel, PowerPon

Education

Degree in health science or related field

APIC infection control training

CIC certification preferred

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

PowerPoint

Email

Job description

Employment Type

Full time

Shift

Day Shift

Description

The Infection Preventionist (IP) is responsible for assisting with the development and implementation of system-wide infection control policies and procedures. Expectations of the Infection Preventionist encompass the following: identification and communication of infection control problems, assistance in resolution of problems, provision of staff development programs to increase compliance with established infection control practices, interpretation and implementation of The Joint Commission, OSHA, and state licensure requirements in regard to infection control.

Position Requirements

A. Licensure/Certification/Registration

Degree in health science, healthcare delivery, public health, laboratory science, nursing, or related field. Experience in Infection Prevention and Control. Completion of a recognized Association for Practitioner in Infection Control (APIC) basic infection control training program or equivalent is desired. Certification in Infection Control (CIC) is preferred. Computer skills, research and basic statistical skills is preferred.

B. Key Responsibilities

The IP is responsible for assisting with the implementation of St. Mary’s Health Care System Infection Control Program and related Plans. This includes but is not limited to the following:

• Works with the Infection Prevention and Control Manager, co-chairs the Infection Control Committee to implement and maintain the Infection Control program and other related activities.


• Collaborates to align Infection Prevention and Control program goals with organizational goals


• Pursues opportunities to improve quality, efficiency, and effectiveness.


• Provides mentorship to IPs and colleagues and seeks mentorship from experienced Ips.


• Coordinates assessment of the hospital’s compliance with the approved infection control measures.


• Assessing educational needs of staff related to infection control; developing programs to meet these needs, including those required by and/ or identified through performance improvement activities. Assists and conducts trainings for medical staff, hospital employees, and others.


• Coordinates and leads special projects related to the infection control program and needs of the organization


• Responsible for daily infection prevention and control surveillance activities

C. Knowledge

Requires general knowledge of current nursing practices and current working knowledge of regulations and requirements that relate to infection control (i.e., TJC, CDC, OSHA); must have a working knowledge of hospital and department policies and procedures.

D. Skills

Demonstrates effective leadership abilities according to the situation. Stimulates creativity and innovation in achievement of goals and objectives for effective infection control by sharing new concepts and ideas; commends staff for adhering to infection control guidelines. Must have excellent organizational skills, oral and written communication abilities, interpersonal skills, and ability to conduct meetings and make presentations to groups and individuals. Is available for consultation. Demonstrates ability to handle sensitive matters and materials and maintain appropriate levels of confidentiality. Must have computer skills in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and email.

E. Experience

Must have 3-5 years in acute care hospital, recent experience in infection control responsibilities, and ability to conduct group/ individual training sessions or in-services to peers and lay groups. Experience in data collection and input desired.

F. Initiative and Judgment Required

Must exercise a high degree of initiative and judgment based on knowledge of infection control practices. Duties involve matters/ materials of a confidential nature.

G. Accuracy

Must be dependably accurate and extremely proficient in all areas of work, especially record keeping and analysis of data. Must be highly dependent in meeting deadlines.

H. Relationships

Must maintain a positive approach and attitude toward work, interfacing professionally and harmoniously with physicians, St. Mary’s colleagues, and external agencies.

I. Worker Source

Acute care and general community hospitals, private or federal agencies of a related field, or internally.

Our Commitment

Rooted in our Mission and Core Values, we honor the dignity of every person and recognize the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.