Lead Echo Tech/Educator (Full Time, Days)

Job Summary

The Lead Echo Tech/Educator is responsible for providing clinical leadership, education, and quality assurance within the Heart Station. This role focuses on ensuring high standards of echocardiographic imaging, mentoring and training staff, and supporting the implementation of best practices. 

Job Specific Duties

• Serves as the go-to clinical expert for challenging or complex echocardiographic cases, providing guidance and troubleshooting support. 
  
• Performs studies (i.e. pre-surgical cases, OR cases for echo cardiograph, etc.). 
  
• Communicates effectively with interdisciplinary teams; shares information within timelines to aid top outcomes for patients and families. 
  
• Evaluates staff competencies including peer to peer observation. Performs QA on images, conclusive diagnostics, and study accuracy in preparation for presentation to the physician. 
  
• Collects research data for physicians in collaboration with the Research department. 
  
• Identifies and corrects minor equipment malfunctions and software issues and refers major technical malfunctions to the appropriate team (i.e. biomedical engineering or IT services). 
  
• Institutes new procedures and keeps abreast of new procedures and theories in collaboration with Heart Station Manager. 
  
• Summons qualified personnel immediately if an emergency situation develops or if a patient is in apparent distress. 
  
• Orients, trains, and evaluates technologists regarding the policies and procedures of the department. 
  
• Collaborates with Heart Station Manager in recruiting, selecting, and evaluating technical staff. 
  
• Selects, trains, coaches, and evaluates assigned staff, provides input to the performance improvement plan to maximize quality and safety. 
  
• Develops and delivers training programs for new and existing sonographers to ensure proficiency in echocardiographic techniques and protocols. 
  
• Oversees onboarding and orientation of new hires, ensuring a smooth integration into the department. 
  
• Organizes and conducts regular educational workshops, skills assessments, and continuing education sessions for sonographers. 
  
• Collaborates with physicians and the Heart Station Manager to develop and maintain clinical protocols and quality standards. 
  
• Reviews and provides feedback on echocardiographic studies to ensure adherence to clinical guidelines and imaging quality benchmarks.
  
• Monitors and audits echocardiographic studies for accuracy, image quality, and diagnostic value.
  
• Participates in quality improvement initiatives and contributes to the development of strategies to enhance patient care.
  
• Maintains up-to-date knowledge of advancements in echocardiography and ensures department practices align with industry standards.
  
• Assists the leader in creating, editing, and updating policies and procedures for the Heart Station team. 
  
• Responsible for researching the newest technology and equipment within the market and participates in the selection of equipment & supplies for the Heart Station, in collaboration with the Echo MD’s and Heart Station Manager. 
  
• Supports the Heart Station Manager in fostering a collaborative and positive work environment.
  
• Communicates changes in clinical procedures or protocols to the team and ensure successful implementation.

Minimum Job Requirements

• Completion of a 2-4 year diagnostic ultrasound program from an accredited institution 
   
• ARDM/RDCS or CCI (registered Cardiac Sonographer) - must maintain active and in good standing throughout employment
   
• American Heart Association BLS - must maintain active and in good standing throughout employment
   
• 7-10 years of experience in echocardiography, with a strong clinical background

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• 7 years of experience in cardiac clinical ultrasound highly preferred
   
• Demonstrated experience in training, mentoring, or in an educational role highly preferred
   
• Excellent communication skills and experience in working within a multidisciplinary team to optimize the patient and family experience
   
• Ability to troubleshoot imaging equipment and software programs
   
• Strong computer skills with knowledge of Three Dimensional ultrasound , Merge, and Cerner
   
• Expertise in advanced echocardiographic techniques, including TTE, TEE, and stress echocardiography
   
• Commitment to maintaining high clinical standards and fostering a culture of continuous learning
   
• Able to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information