Performs routine and complex research work in the fields of epidemiology and public health emergency preparedness programs. Collects epidemiological data for the surveillance of specific diseases and conditions. Conducts disease investigations. Delivers data and reports. Works under general supervision with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment in the performance of the duties. Performs all work as a contributing member of the public health emergency planning, preparedness and response team (PHEP). Expected to respond as directed with the team to any threats to public health, whether natural or man-made.
This is an essential duty position in relation to a designated Public Health Emergency and local disasters. During public health emergencies and local disasters this position will be required to take on additional tasks and work additional hours to meet the needs of the community as it relates to the Health Department. In the event of a public health emergency, you shall report to work if ordered to do so by either of the following officials or positions: (1) District Attorney’s Office (Civil Division), (2) County Judge/Emergency Management Coordinator, (3) Commissioners’ Court liaison or a member of Commissioners’ Court, (4) Director of Public Health Services, or (5) PHEP Program Manager.
This is not a remote work position. Daily in-office attendance is required 8 am – 5 pm, Monday – Friday. Some week-end and evening work is required. The salary range for this position is from $45,000 to $50,000, depending on experience. Exceptions: The work performed outside normal business hours (evenings and/or weekends) can or may be remote work; and during a public health emergency or local disaster, remote work could be required.
This position is a grant-funded position and the position and salary is directly dependent upon grant funds received.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the non-essential functions.
Education, Experience and/or Training Guidelines:
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in public health, epidemiology, science, biology, clinical or laboratory health care or a related field. A Master’s in an appropriate field such as epidemiology or public health is required. Licensed LVN and RN will be considered with relevant experience, OR an equivalent combination of education, training and experience as determined by Human Resources.
Knowledge of/Skill in:
LANGUAGE SKILLS
Ability to read and interpret professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, especially over the telephone and in person, and in the writing of correspondence, reports, plans and procedure manuals.
Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions as a representative of the PHEP team.
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
Ability to compute statistical data, determine results, and relay results verbally, in written form, and via infographics, to the program manager, director, and other necessary entities.
TECHNICAL SKILLS
Ability to successfully operating a personal computer and various software applications.
Knowledge of Microsoft Office software applications with a high level of proficiency in MS Excel.
Ability to utilize reporting software and extract reports.
Ability to perform sample or specimen collection to be submitted for laboratory testing. This function may be performed at healthcare facilities, nursing homes, schools, and other partner organizations.
REASONING ABILITY
Ability to define problems, collect statistical data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
Ability to interpret a wide variety of information and work effectively with abstract and concrete variables.
Ability to use initiative, discretion and decision-making skills within established procedures, guidelines and rules.
Ability to act and problem solve with precise judgment.
OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Self-motivated, dependable and reliable; as this position requires little direct supervision.
Ability to tactfully deal with the public in stressful situations.
Positive customer service attitude with the ability to provide effective customer service.
LICENSE & CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
A valid Texas driver’s license and reliable transportation is required.
WORK ENVIRONMENT and PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the non-essential functions. The work of this job is typically performed in an office work environment (health department office) and also involves field work outside the office which may be noisy and which may involve biohazards. Exposure to communicable diseases is possible.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the non-essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be required to stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, stand, walk, sit, climb and reach with hands and arms. The employee is regularly required to use hands and fingers to handle, manipulate, and/or feel. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. The employee is required to speak and listen/hear/comprehend on a consistent basis.
DISCLAIMER
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.
SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS/REQUIREMENTS
The incumbent in this job must be knowledgeable about and follow the County's safety policies and procedures. Ask supervisor for details. Proper precautions and following road safety laws are required at all times while driving.
DRUG/ALCOHOL POLICY
Drug/Alcohol policy applies to this job: Pre-employment drug/alcohol testing required.
Brazoria County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, national origin, disability, age, or any other protected class. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need.
