Infection Control Practitioner Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of global health concerns, the role of Infection Control Practitioners has never been more crucial.

As public health issues evolve, so does the urgency for proficient professionals who can prevent, control, and mitigate the spread of infectious diseases.

But what does an Infection Control Practitioner really do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply curious about the realm of infection control,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we’re presenting a customizable Infection Control Practitioner job description template, ideal for posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Infection Control Practitioner Duties and Responsibilities

Infection Control Practitioners are primarily responsible for preventing and controlling the spread of infectious diseases in healthcare settings.

They must work closely with medical staff and management to ensure all protocols and procedures are followed accurately.

Their key duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing, implementing and evaluating infection prevention and control measures
• Conducting surveillance and detailed investigations of infections
• Recording and analyzing infection data to identify trends and risk factors
• Providing education and training to healthcare personnel on infection control procedures
• Collaborating with healthcare teams to ensure infection control protocols are integrated into patient care
• Preparing reports on infection control activities for hospital administration and public health agencies
• Monitoring compliance with infection control policies and procedures
• Updating and reviewing infection control protocols and procedures to ensure they are in line with latest research and regulations
• Participating in the development of emergency response protocols to infectious disease outbreaks

 

Infection Control Practitioner Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Infection Control Practitioner to join our healthcare team.

The primary role will be to plan, implement and evaluate infection prevention and control measures within our facility.

Infection Control Practitioner responsibilities include identifying infectious disease risks, implementing policies and procedures to mitigate these risks, training staff on infection control protocols and auditing compliance to these protocols.

Our ideal candidate is a licensed medical professional, with solid understanding of infectious diseases, sterilization methodologies and healthcare regulations relating to infection control.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement infection control policies and protocols
• Monitor and document infection rates within the facility
• Provide infection control education to staff and patients
• Conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with infection control procedures
• Coordinate with healthcare team to provide quality patient care and safety
• Report any major infections or outbreaks to relevant authorities
• Participate in relevant professional committees or meetings
• Stay updated with latest research and trends in infection control

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an Infection Control Practitioner or similar role
• Registered Nurse (RN) or other relevant medical professional license
• Knowledge of infection control practices and procedures
• Experience conducting audits and data analysis
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to train and educate diverse groups
• Certification in Infection Control (CIC) preferred
• BS degree in nursing, epidemiology or related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Life insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Infection Control Practitioner
• Work Environment: Hospital or healthcare facility. This role may require direct interaction with patients and medical staff.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Infection Control Manager or Hospital Administration.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $65,000 minimum to $85,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Infection Control Practitioner Do?

Infection Control Practitioners, also known as Infection Preventionists, are healthcare professionals who work to prevent and control the spread of infections in healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other medical facilities.

Their primary role is to develop, implement, and evaluate infection prevention and control measures.

They collect, analyze, and interpret infection data and trends, and use this information to devise action plans and procedures to prevent future infections.

Infection Control Practitioners educate and train healthcare staff about infection control procedures, hygiene, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

They also work closely with other departments, including nursing, laboratory, and environmental services, to ensure that all areas of the facility adhere to the established infection control standards and protocols.

In addition, they are involved in the investigation and surveillance of suspected or confirmed infection outbreaks, and they coordinate the response to such outbreaks, often in collaboration with public health authorities.

Infection Control Practitioners may also develop policies for the isolation and management of patients with infectious diseases, and they regularly review and update these policies to reflect current best practices and regulatory requirements.

Overall, the goal of an Infection Control Practitioner is to minimize the risk of infection in healthcare settings, thereby enhancing patient safety and improving the quality of care.

 

Infection Control Practitioner Qualifications and Skills

Infection Control Practitioners utilize a variety of technical and soft skills, as well as extensive knowledge of infection prevention and control.

The necessary skills and qualifications for this role include:

• Knowledge of epidemiology and infectious diseases to identify and prevent the spread of infections in healthcare settings.
• Strong analytical skills to interpret infection data, identify trends, and implement effective control measures.
• Excellent communication skills to educate and train healthcare staff on infection control protocols, and to liaise with public health officials and departments.
• Attention to detail and precision in gathering and documenting data, conducting surveillance, and implementing infection control measures.
• Problem-solving skills to promptly address any breaches in infection control, and to devise and implement effective solutions.
• Interpersonal skills to work well with a diverse team of healthcare professionals and to handle potentially sensitive situations with tact and diplomacy.
• Experience with and understanding of healthcare regulations and standards related to infection control.
• Ability to implement and monitor infection control programs and initiatives, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.

 

Infection Control Practitioner Experience Requirements

Infection Control Practitioners (ICPs) usually have a background in nursing, clinical laboratory science, or public health.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience in healthcare, often through a nursing or public health role.

They should also be experienced in areas such as microbiology, epidemiology, and medical technology, as these areas are crucial for understanding and preventing the spread of infection.

Having practical experience or training in hospital environments can also be beneficial as they would be familiar with typical infection risks and prevention procedures in healthcare settings.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have held roles in hospitals or healthcare facilities where they’ve developed their knowledge in infection control protocols and procedures, disease transmission, and sterilization practices.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have experience leading infection prevention and control programs and may be ready for a managerial or team-lead position.

They may also have experience in strategic planning, policy development, and staff training on infection control.

Certification in Infection Control (CIC) by the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology (CBIC) is typically required for this role, and obtaining this certification signifies the candidate’s knowledge and competency in infection prevention and control.

This certification often requires a certain amount of professional experience before candidates are eligible to take the exam.

 

Infection Control Practitioner Education and Training Requirements

Infection Control Practitioners typically have a bachelor’s degree in nursing, microbiology, or a related field.

Additionally, they must be registered nurses (RNs) and often need a minimum of 2-3 years of clinical experience in a healthcare setting, preferably in infection prevention and control.

Following this, they are encouraged to complete a specialized infection control training program, which provides a comprehensive understanding of epidemiology, microbiology, infectious diseases, and patient safety principles.

Many roles also require Infection Control Practitioners to be certified in infection control (CIC), demonstrating their understanding and expertise in this field.

This certification is offered by the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology.

In some cases, a master’s degree in public health, epidemiology, or a related field might be preferred.

This advanced degree can provide deeper knowledge in disease control and prevention.

In this profession, continued education is crucial due to the ever-evolving nature of infectious diseases.

Hence, professionals are often expected to participate in relevant workshops, seminars, and courses to keep their knowledge current.

Furthermore, strong analytical skills, proficiency in data analysis software and good communication skills can be beneficial for this role.

 

Infection Control Practitioner Salary Expectations

An Infection Control Practitioner can expect to earn an average salary of $77,538 (USD) per year.

However, this can fluctuate based on factors such as work experience, educational background, and the geographical location of the workplace.

 

Infection Control Practitioner Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does an Infection Control Practitioner need?

An Infection Control Practitioner usually requires a Bachelor’s degree in nursing or a related field.

In some cases, they may require certification from an infection control board such as the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology (CBIC).

They also require extensive knowledge of epidemiology, microbiology, and patient care practices.

 

What are the key skills of an Infection Control Practitioner?

Key skills include the ability to analyze infection data and trends, develop and implement infection control policies, and conduct infection risk assessments.

They also need to have excellent communication skills to educate staff members about infection prevention strategies and to report findings to healthcare administrators.

 

What should you look for in an Infection Control Practitioner resume?

Look for a background in nursing or health science, as well as experience in infection control in a healthcare setting.

Certifications in infection control or related fields are also a plus.

The resume should demonstrate knowledge of infection control principles and practices, as well as the ability to develop and implement infection control programs.

 

What qualities make a good Infection Control Practitioner?

A good Infection Control Practitioner has strong analytical skills to monitor infection data and identify patterns or trends.

They are proactive and detail-oriented, taking swift action to prevent the spread of infection.

Good communication skills are crucial, as they need to effectively educate staff and report findings.

They should also be compassionate, understanding the serious implications of infection for patients and staff alike.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Infection Control Practitioner?

Hiring an Infection Control Practitioner can be challenging due to the specific qualifications and experience required.

You will need to find a candidate with a background in healthcare, knowledge of infection control principles, and possibly an infection control certification.

Offering competitive salaries and opportunities for professional development can make your position more attractive to qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being an Infection Control Practitioner.

And guess what?

It’s not just about managing infections.

It’s about safeguarding the health of individuals and communities, one disease at a time.

With our comprehensive Infection Control Practitioner job description template and real-life examples, you’re prepared to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to finely-tailored job listings or polishing your resume to brilliance.

Keep in mind:

Every single infection controlled is a step towards a healthier world.

Let’s make that world. Together.

How to Become an Infection Control Practitioner (Complete Guide)

Tech’s True Test: Jobs Where Humans Are Unbeatable

The Stressful Elite: Jobs That Are a Daily Battle!

Pinnacle Professions: The Most Prestigious Careers in the World

Career Adventures: Unusual Jobs That Are Anything But Boring