Tissue Recovery Specialist

Under the general direction of the Regional Supervisor, Tissue Recovery, and in accordance with protocols, policies and procedures established by the organization, AATB, FDA, processor SOP’s, and other federal, state, and local regulations and/or guidelines, the Tissue Recovery Specialist 1 will perform a variety of duties associated with the surgical recovery of specific tissues, which include corneas, split thickness, and full thickness skin for transplantation and/or research purposes.

The Tissue Recovery Specialist 1 will assist the Tissue Recovery Specialist 2’s, Team Leaders and Team Leader 2’s in the operating room by preparing the body for surgery, prepping/draping, circulating, packaging, and labeling of tissue grafts in accordance with processor SOPs in preparation for shipment. The Tissue Recovery Specialist 1 must adhere to OR etiquette and always employ universal precautions.

This position requires participation in a 12-hour rotating call schedule. These shifts require nights, weekends, and holidays. Employees must arrive onsite at the start of the shift. Mandatory and regulatory competencies, as well as meeting attendance along with training will require additional time commitment outside of scheduled shifts. This position may require additional responsibilities which include performing physical assessments to assist in determining clinical suitability and performing morning rounds at the OCME.

Position requires travel to Infinite Legacy regional offices and hospitals within Infinite Legacy’s donor service area.

Education and Experience:

• College work in biology, chemistry or similar coursework preferred.
• Experience in allied health or science, or experience in tissue banking.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Understanding of sterile technique and the general duties performed by a circulator or scrub technician in an operating room setting is preferred.
• Ability to work in a dynamic team environment and perform in stressful situations.
• Knowledge of computers and computer software, e.g., Microsoft Office applications.
• Valid driver’s license with the ability to obtain a Maryland license, proof of car insurance and be insurable under Infinite Legacy’s master policy.
• Ability to effectively communicate both verbally via e-mail, text and in writing.
• Proven ability to work well with others; take direction; institute and maintain a professional working environment. Demonstrate good problem-solving skills, ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Ability to function for extended hours (12-hours plus) and the ability to work and/or take calls seven days a week, 24 hours a day.
• Ability to travel throughout Infinite Legacy’s Donor Services Area.
• Ability to lift at least 75 pounds.
• Knowledge and experience related to tissue recovery is preferred.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Under the direction of the on-call Team Leader, participate in the recovery of split thickness and full thickness skin grafts as well as corneal tissue as needed from the surgical prep to reconstruction of a deceased donor using established aseptic technique in an operating room or similar environment.
• Maintains a rotating on-call schedule across the donor service area. Shift length and frequency are determined by scheduling requirements. Additional shifts will be required if the department is short staffed and will be compensated per the guidelines established in the employee handbook or approved by organization leadership.
• Ensure necessary recovery/reconstruction supplies and equipment are prepared and ready for use, including preparation and transport of instruments and other supplies for sterilization.
• Perform as a professional representative of the organization when recoveries are off-site. Assist in obtaining a recovery site, communicating with the appropriate pathology or security staff, obtaining medical records and participate in Hospital/OCME huddles when necessary.
• Remain compliant with Hospital/OCME rules and regulations to include displaying proper I.D. and wearing proper attire.
• Package and ships specific tissues i.e., full thickness skin grafts and corneal tissue/blood, in accordance with all policies and procedures of…