Infection Preventionist

Description

PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center – Bellingham, WA

Full-Time (1.00 FTE) | Day Shift

Pay Range: $48.52 – $72.78/hour

The hiring rate is dependent upon several factors, including but not limited to education, training, work experience, terms of any applicable collective bargaining agreement, seniority, etc.

Why us, why now (and what’s in it for you)

If you’re ready to move beyond audits and spreadsheets, and directly shape how patients, caregivers, and the community stay safe, then this is your moment.

• You’ll lead infection prevention where it matters most: at the bedside, in real-time decisions, during outbreaks, and across a growing regional system
• You'll be fully embedded on-site : partnering face-to-face with clinical teams and making real-time impact where care happens
• You’ll have true autonomy: trusted to assess risk, guide clinical teams, and implement change without layers of red tape
• You’ll step into influence immediately: partner with leaders, physicians, and public health to shape prevention strategy system-wide
• You’ll grow your expertise in a forward-thinking program: strong support for CIC certification, MPH-level work, and advanced epidemiology practice
• You’ll live where others vacation: mountain views, ocean air, and a healthcare role that still leaves room for a full life outside of work

What you’ll do (clear, impactful work)

• Round with clinical teams and observe care in real time to prevent infections before they happen
• Identify hospital-acquired infections and communicable diseases through active surveillance
• Analyze infection trends and turn data into clear, actionable changes
• Educate caregivers in the moment—simple, practical guidance they can use right away
• Lead outbreak response and quickly put containment plans into action
• Partner with nursing, providers, and leadership to improve infection prevention practices
• Review and update infection control policies so they reflect current standards and real workflows
• Guide safe practices for cleaning, disinfection, isolation, and device use
• Support construction and renovation projects to ensure safe environments (ICRA)
• Collaborate with public health on communicable disease planning and response
• Help protect caregivers through exposure follow-up, vaccine clinics, and safety programs
• Step into on-call support when needed to manage urgent infection risks

What you bring

• A degree in Public Health, Nursing, Epidemiology, Microbiology, Medical Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• At least 3 years of experience in infection prevention, public health, clinical care, lab, or related setting
• Working knowledge of infection prevention practices, epidemiology, and adult learning
• Ability to communicate clearly, influence others, and act decisively in high-risk situations

Nice to have (fast-track candidates)

If you already hold CIC or a-IPC certification, have experience in a hospital or public health infection setting, or bring an MPH , we’ll prioritize your application for immediate review with the hiring team.
We also value candidates who want a sustainable career—this role is designed to support balance, growth, and longevity in infection prevention.

Life at PeaceHealth + Bellingham

At PeaceHealth, our mission is simple: we care for everyone—especially the most vulnerable—with compassion, respect, and excellence. You’ll join a collaborative, supportive team where your voice matters and your work directly improves patient safety every day.

Why Bellingham?

• Coastal Pacific Northwest living with easy access to the San Juan Islands, Mount Baker, and endless trails
• A welcoming, inclusive community with strong values around wellness, sustainability, and connection
• A slower pace without sacrificing professional impact—you can do meaningful work and still have time to enjoy your life

What we offer:

• Full medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 403(b) with employer contributions and match
• Generous PTO and paid leave
• Tuition and continuing education support
• Mental health and wellness programs
• A culture that prioritizes your whole well-being—at work and at home

If you’re looking for a role where your expertise prevents harm, supports caregivers, and protects an entire community—we’d love to connect.

See how PeaceHealth is committed to Inclusivity, Respect for Diversity and Cultural Humility.

PeaceHealth is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer.