Epidemiologist - Public Health Infrastructure - 1

About the position The overall function of an entry-level epidemiologist is to plan, develop and coordinate surveillance activities including the investigation and evaluation of the causes of undesirable health events. This is achieved by investigating communicable diseases, outbreaks, and other public-health issues, coordinating and relaying recommendations for prevention and control measures, and acting as an educational resource for communicable diseases to the local community, area schools, and allied organizations. Results from surveillance activities should be reported to appropriate officials, organizations, and individuals.

Responsibilities

• Completes all required case investigation procedures according the guidelines provided by the state health department.
• Enters all required case investigation data correctly and completely in the National Electronic Disease Surveillance System (NEDSS) within five (5) business days of completion of the investigation.
• Coordinates with hospitals and clinics within Brazos County to have at least ninety percent (90%) of laboratory specimens in the Texas Administrative Code RULE §97.3 and /or those related to outbreak investigations sent to the Laboratory Services Section, Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), Austin, Texas or other public health laboratory as designated by DSHS.
• Submits completed forms related to case, outbreak or cluster investigations to the state health department through a secure electronic method or fax number no later than twenty-four (24) hours after completion of interviews and/or investigation.
• Assures and monitors the confidential treatment and transfer of confidential data provided to/by the state health department.
• Assists with after-hours phone coverage for Health Department to facilitate public health epidemiological and emergency responses.
• Attends meetings and educational seminars as required, and prepares and distributes statistical reports monthly or as needed.
• Provides public health and medical information to individuals and groups, including preparing and giving presentations and representing the Health Department at community functions.

Requirements

• Graduation with a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university with a concentration in Public Health, Epidemiology or closely related health/science field, is preferred, and two years of public health or communicable disease experience is required.
• Any equivalent combination of education and experience, which demonstrates relevant knowledge, skills, and abilities, may be considered.
• General knowledge of principles of epidemiology, infectious disease transmission, infectious disease prevention and control measures, medical terminology, data management and statistical methods, immunization laws and schedules; and the philosophy, purpose, goals and objectives of public health
• Conduct infectious disease case and outbreak investigations, interpret public health surveillance data, interpret diagnostic laboratory test results and medical chart information, establish and maintain effective working relationships with county employees, representatives of governmental agencies, healthcare organizations, and the general public; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; communicate effectively with individuals, families, and groups from all social levels; operate standard word processing and spreadsheet software; interpret public health policies and procedures; provide sensitive information to cases/patients; analyze and interpret data, and maintain confidentiality in accordance with national, state and local policies.
• Valid Texas Driver’s License and dependable vehicle.
• If a registered nurse, a current Texas RN License is required.
• Must show proof at time of application.

Nice-to-haves

• CPR certification is desired.