Operate and manage advanced machine perfusion systems to maintain the viability of donor organs prior to transplantation. Collaborate with surgical teams to monitor biochemical markers and ensure organs are transplant-ready.
Requirements summary
Requires a degree in health science or graduation from an accredited Surgical Technologist/Assistant program. Candidates must have at least 2 years of experience in a surgical, critical care, or transplant setting.
The Solid Organ Preservationist plays a critical, hands‑on role in saving lives by preserving donor organs outside the body using cutting‑edge machine perfusion technology.
This position sits at the intersection of surgery, critical care, and innovation—supporting transplant teams by ensuring donor organs remain viable, functional, and transplant‑ready.
Working side‑by‑side with transplant surgeons, anesthesiologists, and organ procurement teams, you will operate advanced perfusion platforms (including OrganOx and TransMedics) to support liver and other solid organ transplants.
This is a highly specialized, high‑impact clinical role where your expertise directly expands transplant opportunities for patients.
Due to the time‑sensitive nature of transplantation, this role includes rotating on‑call coverage, nights, weekends, and holidays.
What You’ll Do Preserve Life Outside the Body Independently set up, operate, and manage machine perfusion systems to maintain donor organ viability prior to transplantation.
Support normothermic and hypothermic organ perfusion, allowing more organs to be successfully transplanted.
Operate Advanced Perfusion Technology Utilize state‑of‑the‑art perfusion devices such as OrganOx, TransMedics, and LifePort Kidney Pump systems.
Calibrate, troubleshoot, and maintain perfusion equipment before, during, and after each use.
Prepare & Cannulate Donor Organs Assist with sterile preparation and cannulation of donor organs.
Secure organs to perfusion circuits to ensure continuous oxygenated perfusion.
Monitor, Assess, and Respond in Real Time Continuously monitor flows, pressures, temperatures, and biochemical markers.
Interpret data, recognize early signs of organ dysfunction, and collaborate with physicians to intervene when needed.
Respond rapidly and calmly to alarms or changes in perfusion status.
Collaborate with Elite Transplant Teams Work closely with transplant surgeons, anesthesiologists, transplant coordinators, and OPO partners.
Communicate real‑time updates on organ condition and escalate concerns without delay.
Seamlessly integrate perfusion workflows into transplant surgeries.
Be There When It Matters Most Participate in a rotating 24/7 on‑call schedule.
Respond on short notice to donor organ arrivals—including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Thrive in fast‑paced, high‑stakes clinical environments where timing is critical.
Document & Advance the Program Accurately document perfusion parameters, medications, labs, and observations.
Support data collection for quality improvement, outcomes tracking, and program development.
Contribute to protocol refinement and emerging best practices in organ preservation.
Maintain the Highest Standards Uphold strict aseptic technique and hospital safety standards.
Ensure compliance with regulatory, hospital, and manufacturer requirements.
Represent the transplant program with professionalism and integrity.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: Education: Graduate of an accredited Surgical Technologist, or Surgical Assistant program, OR a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant health science field required.
Experience
2+ years of experience in a surgical, critical care, or transplant setting required.
Licensure
See Requisition for Certification/Licensure requirements.
Physical
DEMANDS: Job requires sitting/standing for prolonged periods, frequently bending/stooping/traveling, climbing (ladder, steps) and reaching (overhead, extensive, repetitive). Proficient communicative, auditory and visual skills; Attention to detail and ability to write legibly; Ability to lift/push/pull > 100lbs. May be exposed to chemicals, fumes, heat, noise, cold, blood/body fluids and infectious disease. The starting base rate for this role is $43.04 hourly. Individual compensation will be determined by the selected candidate's qualifications, previous work experience, and/or education. UVA Health is a world-class Magnet Recognized academic medical center and health system with a level 1 trauma center. 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report “Best Hospitals” guide rates UVA Health University Medical Center as “High Performing” in 5 adult specialties and 14 conditions/procedures. We are one of 70 National Cancer Institute designated cancer centers. UVA Health Children’s is named by 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report as the best children's hospital in Virginia with 9 specialties ranked among the best in the nation. Our footprint also encompasses 3 community hospitals and an integrated network of primary and specialty care clinics throughout Charlottesville, Culpeper, Northern Virginia, and beyond. The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.
