Be part of the future of transplantation.
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 pay range for this role is $43.04 - $68.86 hourly. Individual compensation will be determined by the selected candidate's qualifications, previous work experience, and/or education.
Job Profile
J2652 - Solid Organ Preservationist
Career Stream and Level
Clinical Technician-T2
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 .