Infection Control Coordinator, Dental

Job Description

The Infection Control Personnel is responsible for ensuring that all infection control practices and protocols are followed within the dental school, particularly in clinical areas where students and patients interact. This role ensures that the facility meets all local, state, and federal health and safety regulations, and provides a safe environment for patients, staff, and students.

Required Qualifications

• 2 years experience in direct patient healthcare and clinical sterilization processing.
• Working knowledge of dental infection control guidelines from CDC, ADA and OSHA.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively educate and motivate others.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and record-keeping abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to work in a clinical setting with exposure to potential infectious materials.
• Ability to lift, carry, or move items weighing up to 25 pounds, if required; able to stand for extended periods.

Preferred Qualifications

• Licensure as a Registered Dental Assistant in the State of Tennessee preferred.
• Certification/Training: Completion of OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens training preferred.
• Infection Control certification (e.g., CBIC or similar certification) preferred.

Physical Demands

• Ability to work in a clinical setting with exposure to potential infectious materials.
• Ability to lift, carry, or move items weighing up to 25 pounds, if required.
• Ability to stand for extended periods during audits or training sessions.

Job Duties

• Sterilize dental instruments in strict compliance with CDC, ADA and OSHA guidelines
• Report to Central Sterilization Manager and perform job duties, as assigned
• Oversee the identification and return of student instruments, ensuring they are properly labeled to prevent loss or misplacement
• Maintain accurate records of sterilization processes and equipment maintenance
• Monitor students and the handling of dirty/clean dental instruments to prevent cross-contamination in the clinic setting
• Collaborate with Central Sterilization Manager and clinic faculty to train students in proper sterilization procedures
• Report sterilization monitoring test results to the Central Sterilization Manager
• Maintain sterilization equipment according to manufacturers recommendations
• Advise the Central Sterilization Manager of equipment needing service or replacement
• Replenish sterilization supplies and rotate disinfectant products on a first-in, first-out basis to avoid expiration
• Clean and maintain sterilization centers.
• Actively participate in emergency protocols for codes and drills (medical, security, fire, weather, safety, etc.) Maintain BLS CPR healthcare certification
• Perform other duties as assigned