Job Description

University of Utah Job Description

Job Summary

Responsible for the vital technical procedures of the Utah Lions Eye Bank transplant services; namely processing of ocular tissue for endothelial procedures (EK), and determination of tissue suitability by way of tissue evaluation.  Participates in medical review; performs surgical recovery of ocular tissue; and assists in the training of staff and operations as needed.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in biological/physical science, a related field or equivalency; plus one year experience in eye banking and tissue evaluation.  Completion of Eye Bank Technician Certification within one year of hire is also required.  

EK processing experience is preferred.      

This position is patient-sensitive and must fulfill all associated vaccination requirements, or be approved for an exemption, prior to the first day of work. We protect our patients, coworkers and community by requiring all patient-sensitive employees to be immunized according to CDC standards and hospital policy. Limited exemptions may be made for documented medical contraindications or religious beliefs that object to vaccinations.

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

Disclaimer

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification.  It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

Essential Functions

1. Process and prepare specialized ocular grafts for transplant procedures including endothelial transplants.  Related duties include preparation, evaluation and release of processed tissue as well as the maintenance of required supplies and equipment. 
2. Perform slit lamp evaluation and specular biomicroscopy of all ocular tissue intended for transplant.
3. Perform surgical excision of corneas, enucleation of whole eyes, and corneoscleral rim excision/preservation, as needed.      
4. Assist in the didactic training of recovery and technical staff, and assist Technical Director in ensuring staff competency. 
5. Participate in medical review committee and perform medical review of donor charts in preparation for release.  Assist in training of medical review staff, as directed. 
6. Become proficient at performing Tissue Allocation Coordinator responsibilities and provide back-up operations, as requested by Technical Director. 

Comments

The staff member must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served on his or her assigned unit.  The individual must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of life span growth and development and the ability to assess data regarding the patient's status and provide care as described in the department's policies and procedures manual.