Patient Care Technician - NICU

UPMC•Erie, PA

About The Position

UPMC Hamot – Neonatal Intensive Care Unit The NICU at UPMC Hamot is seeking a Full-Time Patient Care Technician (PCT) to support our highly specialized neonatal team. Schedule: Full-Time | Day, Evening, and Night rotation with holiday and weekend rotation required Title and starting pay rate of this position may vary based on years of experience. Position Overview The NICU Patient Care Technician plays a vital behind‑the‑scenes role in supporting safe, efficient, and uninterrupted neonatal care. This role offers a high level of autonomy and is best suited for an organized, self‑motivated individual who thrives in a fast‑paced, detail‑oriented environment. Hands‑on patient care is limited; the primary focus is unit organization, equipment and supply readiness, infection prevention, and operational support—allowing bedside caregivers to remain focused on direct patient care.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent, and one of the following:
Enrollment in a nursing program with:
1 year of general healthcare experience OR
6 months as a UPMC Nursing Assistant/CNA with PCT competency achieved within 120 days OR
Completion of at least one nursing program clinical rotation
Successful completion of the UPMC PCT class upon hire
Basic computer skills
Strong verbal and written communication skills
BLS/CPR (AHA‑compliant; within 30 days of hire)
Act 31 Mandated Reporter Training (within 90 days)
Act 33, Act 34, Act 73 FBI Clearance (with renewal)

Nice To Haves

ACLS preferred

Responsibilities

Maintain appropriate stock of supplies, linens, and formulas; monitor expiration dates.
Clean and disinfect NICU equipment (e.g., isolettes, warmers, carts, cribs, scales, workspaces, refrigerators) per established guidelines.
Troubleshoot and report equipment malfunctions.
Prepare formula as directed by Dietitian/RN staff.
Order, receive, and manage donor breast milk.
Perform daily and monthly point‑of‑care controls.
Perform and document infant hearing screenings; communicate results to RN/APP staff.
Transport specimens and equipment as needed.
Respond promptly to emergencies and nursing requests.
Welcome families, respond to doorbells/phones, and ensure strict hand hygiene upon NICU entry.
Maintain cleanliness of family lounge areas, including meal tray pass and removal.
Provide patient and family education under RN direction.
Support departmental projects and quality initiatives.
Access to medications is limited to distribution to the nurse.
Monitor infant security systems and bedside cameras; report issues immediately.
Establish and maintain professional, respectful working relationships.
Communicate effectively with patients, families, and the interdisciplinary team.
Demonstrate cultural awareness, professionalism, and accountability.
Promote a safe environment for patients and coworkers.
Document hearing exams accurately per policy.
Complete assigned tasks efficiently and assist with clerical duties as needed.
Adhere strictly to infection prevention, safety, confidentiality, and hand hygiene standards.
Contribute ideas to improve workflows and quality outcomes.
Independently prioritize daily activities.
Give and receive constructive feedback.
Identify learning needs and seek development opportunities.
Participate in self‑review and performance improvement activities.
Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): bathing, feeding, toileting, ambulating, turning/repositioning
Vital signs, weights, intake & output
Point‑of‑care testing (including blood glucose)
Telemetry monitor application/reapplication
HAC & PSI prevention (TEDs/SCDs)
Specimen collection, bladder scanning, simple dressings
Placement/removal of restraints
Assisting with therapies and procedures
Reporting patient status changes to the RN
Phlebotomy/venipuncture
Peripheral IV removal
Foley catheter removal
Basic arrhythmia recognition
12‑lead EKG
NG tube clamping and removal