Infection Preventionist Staff Educator

Optima Care Fountains is seeking an experienced Infection Preventionist / Staff Development Coordinator to support regulatory compliance, staff competency, and resident safety. This dual-role position is responsible for assessing staff educational needs; planning, developing, and implementing training programs; and overseeing infection prevention and control practices in accordance with federal, state, county and facility guidelines.

Key Responsibilities

• Develops, implements, and oversees infection prevention and control policies and procedures to prevent the transmission of contagious, infectious, and communicable diseases
• Ensures consistent compliance with all infection control policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements
• Coordinates and conducts routine infection control in-services and educational programs for all staff
• Plans, develops, and directs orientation programs for new employees; monitors and evaluates staff performance throughout individualized orientation periods
• Assesses ongoing staff education needs and develops targeted in-service programs to support current, evidence-based resident care and facility practices
• Provides guidance to staff and residents on established infection prevention standards and protocols

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of nursing theory, clinical techniques, and long-term care practices
• Strong understanding of epidemiology, infectious diseases, and infection prevention principles
• Effective verbal and written communication skills with demonstrated organizational and teaching abilities
• Ability to analyze, adapt, and present educational and training materials to diverse audiences

Qualifications

• Completion of specialized training and/or certification in infection prevention and control (e.g., LTC-CIP, CIC, or equivalent)
• Graduate of an accredited School of Nursing with a current, active RN license in the State of New Jersey
• Minimum of three (3) years of full-time or equivalent clinical nursing experience
• Minimum of two (2) years of clinical experience in long-term care; one (1) year in a management, administrative, or supervisory role preferred
• Required annual attendance at an Infection Control Seminar and demonstrated knowledge of the Facility Infection Control Manual