JOB SUMMARY
Under the supervision of the Director of Simulation, and within the School of Nursing, Clinical and Simulation Learning Center (CSLC), the Simulation Operations Specialist (Equipment Technician 2 (P3)) serves as the simulator operator by programming, testing, and running scenarios with faculty instructors, assuring that the facility and equipment are set up for teaching sessions. The incumbent also provides technical support for all simulation operations, including preparation, maintenance, and repair of computerized manikins (software and hardware), task trainers, and related multimedia equipment. The Simulation Operations Specialist (Equipment Technician 2 (P3)) supports the simulation laboratories (3) located throughout the state that are used as training facilities in support of Nursing students’ practical training. This position oversees hardware, software, inventory, and documentation and is responsible for providing advanced technical support for the School’s simulation labs, which feature audiovisual (AV) and simulation equipment and systems.
This position is based at the Storrs campus but requires frequent travel to other regional campus locations. The standard work schedule is 35 hours per week typically Monday through Friday. However, this position requires a flexible work schedule to accommodate changing student and programmatic needs. Incumbent must be willing and able to work a flexible schedule including variations of weekly days and hours worked, occasional evening and weekend hours, and potentially two (2) or more consecutive 12-hour days at times.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Includes but not limited to:
- Maintains and troubleshoots simulation equipment and software in four (4) simulation labs located throughout the state (Stamford, Avery Point, Waterbury and Storrs).
- Works collaboratively with simulation faculty and staff to ensure proper setup and breakdown of simulation education sessions and skills labs.
- Participates in event and scenario planning meetings to provide technical expertise on capabilities and limitations of equipment and facilities to meet course needs.
- Routinely visits and oversees the administration of all simulation laboratories at all locations in the state.
- Inspects and maintains routine security and condition of hardware, software, AV, and simulation equipment, and functionality of simulation labs.
- Provides faculty simulation support as needed.
- Assists and trains staff, students, and others in simulation laboratory methods and techniques, proper use of equipment, and related work.
- Assists in administering workshops and training programs on equipment, programs, and related devices, in accordance with School of Nursing program goals as directed.
- Manages the School’s simulation technology hardware and simulation inventory, including ordering laboratory supplies and the removal of hazardous materials.
- Maintains necessary records, accounts, and proper simulation laboratory and safety procedures.
- Stays current with technology and simulation changes and pursues ongoing professional development opportunities, as available.
- Maintains knowledge of the current practices, trends, and innovations in the field of information technology, particularly related to Higher Education and Nursing.
- Oversees, inventories, maintains, and assists with repairs on all Simulation Center computers, LCDs, software, and other computing technologies owned by the School of Nursing.
- Analyzes and diagnoses computer and simulation software, hardware, and communications network problems for simulation staff, students, affiliates, and other computer users using Windows, Macintosh, and mobile device platforms.
- Recommends corrective simulation solutions for a wide range of computer applications, hardware, network, and communications technology and software programs.
- Performs simulation technology equipment moves, repairs, replacements, and maintenance.
- Oversees simulation computer inventory, loans, and carts.
- Oversees simulation support, ensures prompt and courteous resolution, and provides emergency assistance for technology and equipment issues reported by UConn School of Nursing Simulation Center employees including desktop and laptop computers, printers, projectors, network devices, digital cameras, audio and video recorders/players, and other technologies as identified or adopted.
- Records, tracks, troubleshoots, and reports on technical simulation service activities and problems including problem counts, categories, statuses, resolutions, and response time.
- Utilizes problem management system for the handling, escalation, referral, and tracking of simulation center requests, problems, or changes that are handled external to the School.
- Is responsible for maintaining proper working order equipment in the simulation center, instruments, and related apparatus, which may be highly specialized; troubleshoots and resolves difficult problems.
- Works with vendors for repairs and replacement parts; may be responsible for modification of such equipment.
- Coordinates with ITS, Dean’s Office, and Business Office.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or related field and three years or more years of progressively responsible technical experience.
- Experience with installations, configurations, troubleshooting, and repair of computers, peripheral hardware, systems, and various software applications.
- Demonstrated knowledge of standard computing technology, Windows, Macintosh, and mobile devices, and considerable knowledge of desktop applications.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a proven ability to explain complex, technical processes.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment, make good decisions, work well independently, and organize time and tasks with minimal supervision.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
- Willingness and ability to work flexible hours including occasional evening, weekend, and off-shift hours as needed to support program activities or respond to computer/IT emergencies.
- Willingness and ability to travel to other campuses and/or simulation laboratory locations throughout the state.
- Ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 150 pounds, with mechanical or human assistance.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science.
- CHSOS certification (Certified Health Simulation Operations Specialist).
- Demonstrated ability to apply a variety of concepts, techniques, and practices in the specialty area appropriate to supporting simulation laboratory environments.
- Experience and advanced knowledge of audio-visual systems and related components, including the ability to operate, maintain, analyze, and troubleshoot technical problems.
- Experience with basic security/networking protocols (firewalls, IP addressing) and remediation of computer viruses, spyware, and malware.
- Experience with installations, configurations, troubleshooting, and repair of computers, peripheral hardware, systems, and various software applications including Gaumard UNI, Laerdal LLEAP, and Office 365.
- Experience with Adobe Creative Cloud, especially Photoshop & Premiere.
- Experience and advanced knowledge of audio-visual systems and related components (Crestron, Extron & ZBand), including the ability to operate, maintain, analyze, and troubleshoot technical problems.
- Demonstrated experience troubleshooting, integrating, and maintaining complex audio and video systems and equipment and/or other instructional technologies used in hi-tech classrooms or laboratories.
- Experience maintaining and operating simulation equipment such as Manikins.
APPOINTMENT TERMS
This position is a full-time, 12-month, permanent position. Salary is commensurate with experience and includes full benefits. Other rights, terms, and conditions of employment are contained in the collective bargaining agreement between the University of Connecticut and the University of Connecticut Professional Employees Association (UCPEA).
For more detailed information about this job opening and to view the full job description, please visit the School of Nursing website at www.nursing.uconn.edu.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.
TO APPLY
Please apply online at https://hr.uconn.edu/jobs, Staff Positions, Search 498325 to upload a cover letter detailing your related experience to the position as outlined above, a resume, and the names and contact information for three (3) professional references. Screening will begin immediately. Screening will begin immediately and the position will remain open until filled.
All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp.
All members of the University of Connecticut are expected to exhibit appreciation of, and contribute to, an inclusive, respectful, and diverse environment for the University community.
The University of Connecticut aspires to create a community built on collaboration and belonging and has actively sought to create an inclusive culture within the workforce. The success of the University is dependent on the willingness of our diverse employee and student populations to share their rich perspectives and backgrounds in a respectful manner. This makes it essential for each member of our community to feel secure and welcomed and to thoroughly understand and believe that their ideas are respected by all. We strongly respect each individual employee’s unique experiences and perspectives and encourage all members of the community to do the same. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO Employer.