Welcome to UMass Memorial Health – Where Every Role Is a Caregiver
At UMass Memorial Health, we believe that excellence in patient care begins with the people who choose to serve every day. With more than 16,000 dedicated professionals, we are the premier health system of Central Massachusetts, renowned for cutting‑edge research, top‑tier academic programs, and an unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of our community.
Our culture is built on a set of six Standards of Respect – Acknowledge, Listen, Communicate, Be Responsive, Be a Team Player, and Be Kind. Whether you are a seasoned clinician, a student, or a contingent worker, you will be welcomed as a valued caregiver whose contributions matter.
Why This Role Is Unique
The Remote Patient Safety Observer position is more than a job; it is a vital component of our patient‑centred safety network. Working from the comfort of your home during the evening shift (2 p.m. – 11 p.m.) you will provide vigilant oversight for patients in the Emergency Department and Medical‑Surgical units, ensuring a safe, respectful, and comforting environment.
We are looking for compassionate individuals who thrive in fast‑paced environments, possess strong interpersonal skills, and are eager to make a real difference in people’s lives—all while enjoying the flexibility of a remote, part‑time schedule.
Role Overview
Position Title: Remote Patient Safety Observer – Evening Shift (32 hrs per week)
Department: Patient Safety & Observation, Emergency Department (ED) & Medical‑Surgical (MS) Units
Location: Remote (Work‑from‑home)
Employment Type: Non‑Exempt, Part‑Time (32 hours weekly)
Compensation: Competitive hourly wage plus potential signing bonus (eligibility confirmed during interview)
Key Benefits of Joining Our Team
- Flexible evening schedule that fits around school, caregiving, or other commitments.
- Opportunity to work remotely while still being an integral part of a world‑class health system.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans for part‑time staff.
- Access to continuous learning resources, including online training, webinars, and tuition assistance.
- Employee assistance programs, wellness initiatives, and mental‑health support.
- Potential for career advancement into nursing, patient advocacy, or health‑information roles.
Core Responsibilities – What Your Day Will Look Like
As a Remote Patient Safety Observer, you will be the eyes and ears for patients who require continuous supervision. Your primary mission is to protect patient safety, promote dignity, and support the clinical team.
- Human‑Centred Interaction: Introduce yourself by name, make eye contact, and consistently display respectful, empathetic, and caring communication with patients and their families.
- Continuous Visual Monitoring: Remain within the patient’s visual field at all times, including bathroom visits and transport, to detect any signs of suicidal ideation, violent behavior, or self‑harm.
- Safety Checks: Perform systematic 15‑minute checks, accurately documenting observations, vital signs, and any concerns in the electronic health record (EHR).
- Visitor Oversight: Ensure that visitors do not bring prohibited items (weapons, illicit drugs, sharps) into patient areas, safeguarding a therapeutic environment.
- Collaboration with Clinical Staff: Follow directions from the nurse in charge, report any safety concerns immediately, and assist with patient transport when instructed.
- Multi‑Patient Management: When authorized by licensed staff, monitor more than one patient simultaneously, balancing vigilance with effective documentation.
- Ancillary Support: During periods without direct patient observation, assist with tasks such as bed-making, restocking supplies, and supporting transport logistics.
- Floating Assignments: Flexibly rotate among high‑need areas within the ED and MS units, adapting quickly to varying patient volumes and acuities.
- Advocacy and Dignity: Uphold patient dignity at all times; be an advocate for those who may be unable to voice their needs.
Essential Qualifications – What You Must Have
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent (GED) is required.
- Certification: Current CPR certification; must be obtained within six months of hire if not already held.
- Legal Eligibility: Must be authorized to work in the United States.
- Technical Requirements: Reliable high‑speed internet connection, a quiet home workspace, and a webcam compatible with our secure video‑monitoring platform.
- Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication; ability to convey empathy and reassurance over virtual platforms.
- Physical Capability: Ability to sit for extended periods, occasional standing or walking, and lift up to 25 lb for equipment handling.
Preferred Qualifications – What Will Make You Shine
- Prior experience in a healthcare environment, such as patient escort, volunteer, or unit aide.
- Knowledge of basic patient safety protocols, HIPAA privacy standards, and infection‑control practices.
- Proficiency with electronic health record (EHR) systems or similar documentation platforms.
- Certification in additional life‑support skills (e.g., BLS, ACLS) or mental‑health first aid.
- Experience working remotely, demonstrating self‑discipline, time management, and strong organizational abilities.
Skills & Competencies – Foundations for Success
- Observational Acuity: Sharp attention to detail; ability to detect subtle changes in patient behavior, posture, or speech.
- Empathy & Compassion: Genuine concern for patient wellbeing, with a calm demeanor under pressure.
- Critical Thinking: Quick assessment of safety concerns and appropriate escalation to licensed staff.
- Team Collaboration: Ability to work seamlessly with nurses, physicians, security personnel, and ancillary staff.
- Technological Proficiency: Comfort using video‑conferencing tools, digital documentation, and secure messaging platforms.
- Adaptability: Flexibility to respond to shifting patient loads, rotating assignments, and evolving protocols.
- Professionalism: Uphold confidentiality, follow institutional policies, and maintain a respectful virtual presence.
Physical Demands & Work Environment
The role involves a blend of sitting, standing, walking, and occasional lifting. While you will work from home, you must be prepared for short bursts of activity, such as transporting equipment or assisting with patient relocations under virtual guidance.
- Standing/Walking: 33 %–66 % of the shift may involve standing or walking.
- Sitting: 66 % of the shift will be seated at a workstation.
- Manual Handling: Ability to lift up to 25 lb regularly; occasional handling of items up to 50 lb.
- Environmental Exposure: Working in a remote setting eliminates exposure to hazardous clinical conditions, yet you will be required to follow infection‑control policies when interacting with patient‑related materials.
Career Growth & Development Opportunities
UMass Memorial Health invests heavily in the professional growth of its staff. As a Remote Patient Safety Observer you will have access to:
- Educational Pathways: Tuition reimbursement for allied‑health programs, nursing degrees, or certifications.
- Mentorship Programs: Pairing with experienced nurses or patient safety leaders for guidance and skill building.
- Internal Mobility: Preference for internal candidates when transitioning to full‑time clinical or administrative roles.
- Continuing Education: Free access to webinars on patient safety, mental health, crisis de‑escalation, and remote care technologies.
- Leadership Tracks: Opportunities to advance into supervisory or quality‑improvement positions after gaining experience and demonstrating competency.
Compensation, Perks & Benefits
We recognize the value of your time and dedication. While exact compensation will depend on experience and market factors, you can expect a competitive hourly wage with the following supplemental benefits:
- Potential signing bonus (subject to eligibility verification).
- Paid time off (PTO) accrued on a pro‑rated basis for part‑time staff.
- Health, dental, and vision insurance options with employer contributions.
- Retirement savings plan with matching contributions.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering counseling, legal, and financial resources.
- Access to wellness initiatives, including virtual fitness classes and mindfulness workshops.
- Discounts on tuition, books, and hospital services for employees and their families.
Our Culture – The Heartbeat of UMass Memorial Health
Our workforce thrives on collaboration, respect, and a shared mission to heal. We celebrate diversity and inclusion, believing that a multitude of perspectives drives innovation and compassionate care. Our six Standards of Respect guide every interaction, ensuring that each team member feels heard, valued, and empowered.
Whether you are a student balancing coursework, a caregiver managing family responsibilities, or a professional seeking flexible work, you will find a supportive community at UMass Memorial Health that honors your commitment and nurtures your growth.
Simple Application Process – Take the First Step
Ready to become part of a caring, forward‑thinking health system? The application journey is straightforward:
- Click the “Apply Now” button below. You will be directed to our secure portal.
- Log in through your Workday account or create a new profile if you are a first‑time applicant.
- Upload your résumé, CPR certification (or indicate when you will obtain it), and a brief cover letter describing why you are passionate about patient safety.
- Submit your application and receive a confirmation email with next‑step details.
Our recruitment team will review your materials promptly. If you meet the qualifications, you will be invited to a virtual interview where we will explore your experience, discuss the role in depth, and answer any questions you may have.
Join Us – Make a Meaningful Impact From Home
If you embody empathy, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety, we invite you to apply for the Remote Patient Safety Observer position. Become a crucial guardian of patient well‑being while enjoying a flexible evening schedule that fits your lifestyle.
At UMass Memorial Health, every employee is a caregiver. Your dedication will help us continue to provide exceptional, compassionate care to the patients and families who rely on us every day.
Apply Today and embark on a rewarding remote career that truly makes a difference.
Apply Now