Nurse Educator/ Infection Control & Nutrition Specialist

Position Summary and Qualifications

The RN Educator / Infection Control & Nutrition Specialist is a key clinical role in an OPWDD residential setting, responsible for developing and implementing staff training programs, overseeing infection prevention and control, and supporting individualized nutrition-related care. This position ensures regulatory compliance, promotes best practices in health and safety, and enhances the overall quality of care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Qualifications include licensure as a Registered Nurse with a valid New York State license. A minimum of 3 years' experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is required. Knowledge of OPWDD regulations, ICF/IID standards, and CDC/DOH infection control guidelines. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, training/facilitation abilities, and organizational skills.

Reports to: The Assistant Director of Nursing Services

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Staff Education & Clinical Training:

• Design and facilitate as needed staff orientation, annual competencies, and ongoing clinical in-service training, including medication administration, emergency response, specialized care needs, and OPWDD requirements.
• Conduct skills assessments and evaluate staff adherence to clinical protocols and best
• Serve as a resource to direct support staff, nursing, and interdisciplinary team members on health-related concerns.
• Maintain detailed training records in compliance with OPWDD and agency Infection Prevention and Control:
• Lead the agency's Infection Prevention and Control Program across residential
• Monitor infection trends, conduct routine surveillance, and respond to outbreaks or reportable conditions.
• Provide training and education on infection control measures including standard precautions, PPE, hand hygiene, and environmental sanitation.
• Collaborate with public health officials as needed and ensure accurate and timely reporting of communicable diseases.
• Conduct audits of infection control practices and recommend
• Assist with administering PPD's to employees
• Participates in the clinical orientation and competency-based training of newly hired nursing staff.

Monitor medication administration to assure that it is being done correctly and safely, including the following:

• Dispense prescribed medication as needed
• Evaluate medication errors and recommend steps to remedy the situation, including written advisories
• Assure that Medication Administration records are signed and in compliance
• Provide medication error advisories
• Assists with annual medication recertification and practicum pours

Nutrition Oversight and Education:

• Collaborate with registered dietitians, nursing staff, and interdisciplinary team members to support implementation of modified diets, tube feeding protocols, and special nutrition
• Educate staff on safe food handling, modified texture diets (e.g., puréed, mechanical soft), mealtime positioning, aspiration precautions, and documentation requirements.
• Review dietary compliance and individual nutrition needs during clinical reviews and meal observations.

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements:

• Occasional standing, pushing, pulling, squatting and
• Occasional need to lift up to 50 lbs independently and up to 100 lbs with
• Potential for exposure to blood and body

Salary range for this position is $75,000.00 - $80,000.00.