Job Description

The Simulation Operations Specialist will execute simulated education programs, provide technical and/or clinical support for all experiential learning operations, including but not limited to: preparation set up and breakdown, maintenance, inventory and repair of computerized manikins (software and hardware), surgical simulators, task trainers, surgical equipment and instruments, and related multimedia peripherals. This position designs, analyzes, and maintains the mechanical systems and equipment of the simulation environment. This position is responsible for the safety and compliance of simulation activity.

Nature of Work: A Simulation Operations Specialist supports the development and implementation of simulation-based education by providing consultation, troubleshooting and specialized technical support for all simulation operations. This position is responsible for integrating, maintaining, and operating the computer and audio-video (AV) technology including manikin and surrounding simulation lab equipment. This position designs and prepares skills/training labs and varying levels of simulation learning experiences as well as executing them. This position meets the FLSA criteria for a professional exemption since it performs work that requires advanced knowledge in a field of science or learning which is predominantly intellectual in character and requires the consistent exercise of discretion and judgment.

This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.

• Coordinates and executes “life-like” medical simulation scenarios including emergency medicine, life support, patient care, and clinician/patient interactions; and makes appropriate adjustments based on participant’s actions. Programs, tests, assists, and operates computerized simulation scenarios in collaboration with content experts and faculty.
• Designs, analyzes, troubleshoots, calibrates, and maintains medical diagnostic equipment, mechanical systems and other equipment in the simulation lab environment.
• Provides specialized technical support for all simulation operations, including preparation, maintenance and repair of patient simulators (software and hardware), and related multimedia peripherals.
• Participates in event and scenario planning meetings to provide technical expertise on capabilities and limitations of equipment and facilities to meet learning needs.
• Oversees preventative maintenance of equipment according to manufacturers’ recommendations. Monitors scheduled maintenance to ensure that equipment is operational. Communicates with vendors regarding maintenance, repairs, updates and technology changes.
• Provides consultation, orientation, and training to instructors, staff, and other users regarding simulation laboratory procedures, location and use of materials, and the operation and technical aspects of simulation equipment.
• Ensures the safety and compliance of simulation activity, adhering to Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSH) Accreditation Standards.
• Manages, evaluates, and maintains inventory for lab equipment, media, computers, materials, and supplies related to simulation learning.
• Collects data for simulation activities and generates utilization reports as requested.
• Assist with or lead other special projects, initiatives, or duties as needed or assigned.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

This position requires a Bachelor's degree in a field related to the discipline of work, and one year of related experience; or any equivalent combination of experience and/or education from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved, to total 5 years. Related disciplines include:

• Medical Simulation
• IT/AV/ Computer
• Firefighter/Paramedic
• Healthcare
• BioMedical or Health Sciences
• Surgical Technology
• Some positions may require Certified Healthcare Simulation Operations Specialist (CHSOS) certification or obtain CHSOS certification within one year of employment.

• Alternatively, individuals who have successfully completed 5 qualifying simulation concentration courses at USF will meet the minimum requirements for this position.

SB 1310: Substitution of Work Experience for Postsecondary Education Requirements

• A public employer may include a postsecondary degree as a baseline requirement only as an alternative to the number of years of direct experience required, not to exceed:
  • (a) Two years of direct experience for an associate degree;
  • (b) Four years of direct experience for a bachelor’s degree
  • (c) Six years of direct experience for a master’s degree
  • (d) Seven years of direct experience for a professional degree; or
  • (e) Nine years of direct experience for a doctoral degree
• Related work experience may not substitute for any required licensure, certification, or registration required for the position of employment as established by the public employer and indicated in the advertised description of the position of employment.
• Minimum Qualifications that require a high school diploma are exempt from SB 1310.

Working at USF

With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF‘s rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida’s best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state’s 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.

About USF

The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF’s Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu

Compliance and Federal Notices

This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws. This job description does not constitute an employment contract.