Epic Systems develops electronic health record (EHR) software widely used by major health systems across the United States. Integrating this technology requires extensive training for thousands of physicians, nurses, and staff. This need for education has created a high-demand career path for individuals who can effectively teach others how to use the system. Becoming an Epic Credentialed Trainer (CT) offers a structured opportunity to enter the specialized field of healthcare IT without needing a deep technical background.
Understanding the Epic Credentialed Trainer Role
The Epic Credentialed Trainer is the frontline educator responsible for directly instructing the end-users of the electronic health record system. Their primary function is to deliver standardized training curricula developed by the organization’s Principal Trainers (PTs). Unlike an Epic Certified Analyst who builds and configures the software, the CT focuses on teaching the application’s functionality and workflow to clinical and administrative staff. CTs are frequently hired on contract to support large-scale implementation projects, rolling out the EHR across an entire health system. After core training, they often remain on site to provide floor support, helping users navigate the system during the initial “go-live” period.
Essential Background and Skills Needed
Success as a Credentialed Trainer relies heavily on a foundational set of soft skills. A strong ability in public speaking and delivering clear presentations is necessary, as the CT spends the majority of their time leading classroom instruction. Organizational skills are also necessary for managing class rosters, tracking learner progress, and maintaining a consistent training environment. Experience with principles of adult learning, such as understanding how to engage a diverse group of professionals, improves a trainer’s effectiveness.
Many organizations prefer candidates with a background in clinical roles, such as nursing, medical assisting, or pharmacy. This clinical familiarity gives the trainer credibility and a deeper understanding of the patient care workflows the Epic system supports. Individuals with previous experience in corporate training or formal education also possess an advantage. These candidates typically already understand instructional design principles and classroom management techniques.
Navigating the Official Credentialing Process
Earning the official Credentialed Trainer designation is a process managed by the hiring organization, not directly by Epic Systems Corporation. The organization, typically a hospital or consulting firm, hires the candidate and sponsors their entry into the internal training program. This formal process is overseen by the project’s Principal Trainers, who are already certified in the specific Epic application being taught.
Attending Principal Trainer Classes
The first step involves the trainer candidate learning the application-specific content they will eventually teach. Candidates attend the same courses that the Principal Trainers attended to gain foundational knowledge. For instance, a candidate focused on physician workflows would attend the Epic Ambulatory application classes. This intensive instruction ensures the trainer understands the system’s foundational build, functionality, and alignment with the client’s clinical workflows.
Passing the Proficiency Exam
After completing the necessary application training, candidates must demonstrate mastery by passing a proficiency exam. This exam is rigorous and application-specific, testing the understanding of system navigation, configuration, and the workflows covered in the training materials. A passing score, often set at 80% or higher, is required to move forward. Passing this exam confirms the candidate possesses the product knowledge necessary to confidently teach others.
Practice Teaching and Validation
The final phase is the validation step, which shifts focus from system knowledge to teaching competency. The candidate must prepare and deliver a specific lesson segment from the client’s approved training curriculum to a panel, usually consisting of a Principal Trainer or Project Manager. This practice teaching session is evaluated on accuracy of system demonstration, adherence to the standardized curriculum, and effective presentation skills. Achieving a successful validation confirms the candidate is prepared to lead end-user classes, resulting in the award of the official Credentialed Trainer status for that specific Epic application.
Strategies for Landing a Trainer Position
The job market for Credentialed Trainers is primarily driven by large health system implementation timelines. Most CTs are recruited through specialized healthcare IT consulting firms, which staff projects across the country. Direct hospital contracts are also common, where the health system hires trainers specifically for their multi-year project duration.
Candidates should be aware of the two main employment structures: W-2 full-time employee roles and 1099 independent contractor positions. The majority of roles are contract-based, often utilizing the 1099 structure. This structure typically offers a higher hourly rate but requires the trainer to manage their own taxes and benefits. The W-2 option, usually offered by consulting firms, provides a more traditional employment package with employer-sponsored benefits.
A successful job application requires a resume that prominently features any relevant clinical background or substantial public speaking experience. Highlighting metrics, such as the size of the audience taught or the complexity of the material presented, helps demonstrate instructional capacity. Networking with recruiters who specialize in Epic staffing is an effective way to stay informed about upcoming project needs and secure an interview.
Salary Expectations and Career Advancement
Financial compensation for Credentialed Trainers varies significantly based on the employment model and project specifics. Contract hourly rates are typically higher, often falling within the range of $35 to $65 per hour, depending on the application and geographic location. Trainers specializing in niche or high-demand applications, such as Epic Cupid (Cardiology) or Willow (Pharmacy), often command rates at the higher end of the scale.
Salaried, full-time equivalent (FTE) roles within a hospital system tend to offer a stable annual salary, often ranging from $60,000 to $85,000, which includes benefits and paid time off. Factors like the duration of the contract, the amount of travel required, and the specific module being taught all influence the final compensation package.
Experience gained as a Credentialed Trainer opens several avenues for career progression within healthcare IT. The skills acquired in project execution and team management provide a strong foundation for advancement:
- Transitioning into the role of Principal Trainer, focusing on curriculum development and managing the training team.
- Leveraging system knowledge to become an Epic Certified Analyst, moving into the technical build and configuration side of the EHR.
- Moving into instructional design roles.
- Moving into project coordination roles.