Tissue Bank Research Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Join LifeLink — Join a Life Saving Team!

About LifeLink
More than four decades ago, a visionary group of innovators, led by renowned nephrologist Dr. Dana Shires, made a life-changing commitment—to save lives through organ and tissue donation. From that bold beginning, LifeLink Foundation was established – founded with heart, purpose, and a mission that still guides us today.

What started as a nonprofit with big dreams has grown into a vision-driven organization of more than 700 dedicated professionals across west-central Florida, Georgia, parts of South Carolina, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands.

At LifeLink, we are united by our mission: To honor donors and save lives through organ and tissue donation.

Our vision remains clear: To maximize the gift of life while giving hope to donor families and transplant patients.

We are grounded in the values that shape our work and culture—Compassion. Excellence. Legacy. People. Quality.

If you’re inspired by purpose, driven by impact, and ready to help save and heal lives, LifeLink is the place for you.

What You’ll Do
As a Tissue Recovery Coordinator, you will directly contribute to LifeLink’s life-saving mission.

Within established LifeLink Foundation, OPO, and Tissue Bank Program policies and protocols, the incumbent applies the principles of sterile technique and surgical expertise in the recovery of a variety of cadaveric tissue and bone for transplantation; participates in call rotation maintains an ongoing open line of communication with Tissue Recovery Assistant Manager and Tissue Recovery Manager.  Serves as Primary and Case Coordinator on cases. 

 Key Responsibilities:

• Adheres to the established protocols set forth in the LifeLink Foundation Tissue Bank Standards and Procedures Manual.
• Case Coordinator duties to include:
• Participates in and assists with the training of surgical recovery of human tissue for transplantation to include aseptic technique and circulation in an operating room setting:
  • Having access to cell phone and LifeLink designated computer while on call.
  • Receiving calls from Donation Coordinators or shared organ/tissue donors.
  • Coordinate donor transportation.
  • Review donor information and assist in the determination of initial suitability for recovery.
  • Communication with other processing agencies.
  • Coordinate case staffing, logistics and communication (including communication with Eye Bank if applicable).
  • Works with primary coordinator to ensure compliance with required case activity.
  • Coordinate courier services to LLTB and applicable processors.
• Oversees per diem staff members during case as primary coordinator.
• Provides documentation and follow-through.
• Participates and assists Tissue Recovery Manager with development of the tissue recovery call-rotation schedule.
• Responsible for cleaning Operating Room, prep area and freezer rooms.
• Inspects, maintains, and monitors equipment, supplies, and instrumentation used for procurement.
• Assists and monitors trainees regarding the preparation of sterile work areas and supplies needed for various stages of procurement.

Who You Are

• Passionate about helping others and making a difference
• Aligned with LifeLink’s core values of Compassion, Excellence, Legacy, People, and Quality
• Bachelors’ Degree in Life Science field or licensure as a Registered Nurse, Physician’s Assistant or Medical Technologist and, two years’ experience in Tissue Banking and hold a certificate as an AATB certified Tissue Bank Specialist; or
• Associates Degree in Allied Science (ORT, EMT, or CST); and a minimum of four years’ experience in any one of these fields, and hold a certificate as an AATB Certified Tissue Bank Specialist; or
• Successful completion of an accredited surgical technology program or its equivalent
• Manual dexterity to demonstrate proper surgical technique in the procurement of bone and tissue for transplant.
• Demonstrated physical ability to lift, carry and/or move equipment of varying weight from 1 to 30 pounds for 10% of the work time and to stand for 90% of the work time.
• Demonstrated ability to handle 24/7 call-rotation responsibilities and respond to emergency situations with availability to take call a minimum of 33% of the work month.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills and professional attitude necessary to interact and communicate effectively with other members of the tissue team and with hospital and other external agency personnel.
• Good driving record and current state driver license
• A collaborator who thrives in a mission-first environment

Why LifeLink?

• Be part of an organization with a legacy of saving lives and giving hope
• Join a passionate and supportive team across Florida, Georgia, and Puerto Rico
• COMPANY PAID Medical, Dental, Disability & Life Insurance
• Generous COMPANY PAID Pension Plan for your Retirement
• Paid Vacation, Sick Days & Holidays
• Growth opportunities in a mission-driven, high-impact nonprofit
• Work with purpose, knowing your efforts directly touch lives

Working Conditions:

Availability via cell phone 24/7.  Possible high stress / long hours while on call.  Friendly, team-oriented and interactive environment.  Flexibility in work schedule, based on call schedule/case duration.  Hazardous conditions include, but are not limited to, possible exposure to blood and/or body fluids from potentially infected donors and the potential of obtaining cuts and/or punctures to skin from sharp instruments and equipment.

OSHA Risk Classification:  High

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
LifeLink is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to building an inclusive environment that reflects the communities we serve.

Ready to Help Change Lives?
Your next career move could be the most meaningful one yet.