Infection Prevention and Control Specialist

**Job Description**:
**POSITION PURPOSE**
Reporting to the Manager, Health Protection, is responsible for providing infection and prevention control expertise and leadership in the implementation of program initiatives and deliverables; developing, implementing, monitoring and evaluating infection control programs as well as building capacity internally and externally to detect and manage Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) issues; conducting research and interpreting evidence based literature in developing IPAC best practices guidelines, tools and resources; evaluating initiatives, programs, policies and resources and providing IPAC best practice recommendations; completing IPAC audits to ensure compliance within industry best practices; leading, conducting and assisting in investigations of IPAC breaches, conducting IPAC risk assessments using a scientific based approach and recommending solutions; recommending standards, protocols, processes and procedures in compliance with applicable legislation; acting as a consultant, educator and resource for internal and external stakeholders; and providing infield infection prevention and control in emergency situations.

**MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES**
- Applies infection control expertise to internal and external stakeholders and applies expert knowledge of current evidence, best practice, standards, and guidelines in order to prevent and control the spread of infectious diseases within York Region.
- Participates in planning, implementing, monitoring and evaluating infection control programs and initiatives within York Region to build capacity internally and externally to detect and manage emerging IPAC issues.
- Participates in the development of the IPAC framework to deliver services that support and inform internal and external partners and stakeholders.
- Identifies necessary supports for achievement of professional and program goals and makes recommendations on initiatives to reduce breaches, mitigate risks and educate stakeholders on infection prevention and control.
- Leads the development of IPAC core competencies and practice standards for internal and external stakeholders.
- Participates and/or leads in the development of policies, procedures and protocols and ensures that stakeholders have pertinent and relevant information to take informed action that mitigates infection risk.
- Conducts IPAC risk assessments and makes recommendations accordingly.
- Conducts relevant research including literature reviews, epidemiological, and data analysis and provides evidence based recommendation.
- Provides leadership to, and acts as a consultant in IPAC audits and makes recommendations in order to mitigate health hazards.
- Collaborates, consults and acts as a resource to internal and external partners and stakeholders.
- Collaborates with provincial organizations, municipalities, advisory groups and professional networks on IPAC initiatives.
- Acts as an IPAC resource and provides IPAC expertise during emergency response.
- Provides in field infection prevention and control expertise and support during outbreaks of infectious diseases.
- Performs other duties as assigned, in accordance with Branch and Department objectives.

**QUALIFICATIONS**
- Successful completion of a University Degree in Health Sciences, Social Sciences, or a related field or approved equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Current Certification from the Certification Board of Infection Control.
- Minimum three (3) years experience of relevant infection prevention and control related experience with a comprehensive understanding IPAC practices and program service delivery.
- Valid Ontario Class “G” driver’s license and reliable vehicle for use on corporate business.
- Thorough knowledge communicable disease control, epidemiologic principles, surveillance, and outbreak management.
- Ability to effectively provide infield infection prevention and control emergency response in hot zones as requested and acts as a content expert.
- Demonstrated analytical, problem solving and evaluation skills to investigate and initiate corrective action to resolve issues.
- Knowledge and demonstrated ability in corporate core competencies including customer focus, communication, collaboration and personal ownership.
- Demonstration of Departmental competencies, including flexibility and adaptability, accountability, strategic thinking, creativity and collaboration.