DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC HEALTH
DIVISION OF PUBLIC HEALTH
CITY OF WORCESTER
The City of Worcester is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Director of Public Health for the Public Health Division within the Office of Health and Human Services (HHS). Under the direction of the Commissioner of Health and Human Services, the Director of Public Health oversees and coordinates the daily operations of the Worcester Division of Public Health. This includes guiding and directing department staff to implement data and science based public health best practices and programs, administering the operating budget, managing grant management, executing contracts, overseeing personnel matters, and establishing and implementing policies and standard operating procedures in accordance with local ordinances and regulations. The Director of Public Health sits on numerous local boards and coalitions, providing insight and direction to promote public health and health equity.
Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.
ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS:
- Assist the Commissioner of HHS with the preparation and administration of the annual divisional operating budget.
- Oversee the management of division programs and services.
- Manage all personnel functions (i.e. employee recruitment, retention, discipline and training).
- Participate in the process of responding to emergencies within the city.
- Actively participate in local boards and coalitions to promote health equity throughout the region
- Evaluate and improve the quality and effectiveness of division services and staff performance and develop and maintain a strategic planning process.
- Oversee the preparation and administration of grants awarded to the division.
- Attend meetings of the City Council as required.
- Serve as staff liaison to the Board of Health, which includes coordinating meetings, agendas, and communications.
- Conduct research and prepare reports for the Board of Health, City Council, City Administration and the media.
- Address and resolve complaints from city and regional constituents.
- Other duties as assigned by the Commissioner of HHS.
SECONDARY ELEMENTS:
- Required to attend workshops or seminars to keep abreast of latest developments in the provision of public health services as well as changes in applicable state and federal laws and regulations and to maintain required certifications and/or licenses.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
- Working knowledge of the Division operations and services provided as well as municipal budgetary procedures and applicable local ordinances, State and Federal laws and regulations
- Demonstrated proficiency with computers and proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint)
- Knowledge of potential grant sources of funding and contract management in support of division operations
- Ability to effectively handle problems in the field and during emergencies
- Ability to read and interpret and apply Federal, State and local laws and ordinances
- Ability to interact effectively with disgruntled members of the public, local officials and other department personnel
- Ability to work independently, exercise good judgment and make sound decisions
- Ability to think critically and solve problems
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with diverse populations, organizations, and interests
- Ability to maintain confidentiality
- Ability to conduct research, prepare grant applications, and to prepare detailed, accurate reports
- Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously in a detailed and organized manner in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to conduct research, prepare and submit grants, as appropriate
- Ability to prepare and manage budgets and provide oversight of complex Division financials
- Ability to lead a team or division, delegate tasks appropriately and maintain a positive, productive work environment
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Excellent organizational skills
- Demonstrated knowledge of health and racial equity
- Commitment to anti-racism policies and practices
- Excellent research and data processing skills and ability to prepare clear and concise reports
- Keen understanding of local and state regulations and codes (i.e tobacco, food, housing, nuisance, etc.)
- Ability to work with community coalitions
- Keen understanding of municipal government as it relates to policy, budgets and supporting boards and commissions.
- Regular onsite attendance is required
- Skilled in policy development and implementation
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
- Master’s degree in public health or related field
- Five (5) years of related work experience in public health or a related field
- Three (3) years of experience in a supervisory capacity
- Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite
- Valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation
- Demonstrated experience working with diverse communities and a high degree of competency with health equity and/or anti-racist frameworks
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Ten (10) years of related work experience in public health or a related field
- Five (5) years of experience in a supervisory capacity
- Three (3) years of experience administering or preparing operating budgets
- Three (3) years of experience with project or program management
SALARY RANGE: $115,000 - $158,000 annually, full-time, exempt, with an excellent benefits package.
To apply, please visit: www.worcesterma.gov/employment or send resume and cover letter to: City of Worcester, 455 Main Street, Room 109, Worcester, MA 01608. OPEN UNTIL FILLED, applications received prior to or on FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2026, will receive preference. Preference is given to Worcester residents. The City of Worcester is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. Direct inquiries to: City Hall, Human Resources, Room 109, 508-799-1030, [email protected].
