What are the responsibilities and job description for the Epidemiologist - Communicable Disease position at El Paso County?
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Job Summary
This position has an anticipated work schedule of Monday – Friday, 7:30am - 4:30pm, subject to change.
Under FLSA guidelines, this position is exempt.
Please be advised this position may close without advance notice, should we receive a sufficient number of qualified applications.
Conducts Communicable Disease (CD) surveillance, case investigation, and outbreak response. Works with public health and community providers to maintain quality control of surveillance data. Conducts epidemiologic analyses and special investigative projects. Prepares reports and disseminates data for the program. Educates the public and health providers on communicable diseases.
Essential Duties/Responsibilities
- Monitors Colorado Electronic Disease Reporting System (CEDRS) for notifiable condition disease reporting.
- Conducts routine infectious disease case surveillance and field epidemiologic investigations.
- Identifies, evaluates, and implements data collection systems to improve quality and timeliness of notifiable disease reporting.
- Performs outbreak investigations, recommends control measures, and participates in outbreak response.
- Assists with the design and implementation of epidemiology projects and data analysis plans.
- Remains up to date on disease control protocols and procedures. Consults with the CD Program Manager, Medical Director, and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) as appropriate for references and recommendations.
- Provides consultation on epidemiology and infectious diseases to local health partners and providers. Works with healthcare providers to maintain quality control of surveillance data.
- Educates the public and health providers on communicable diseases.
- Prepares and disseminates reports, disease summaries, and health alerts.
- Assists with media requests for written information and interviews.
- Participates in departmental emergency planning and response.
- Promotes public health within the community.
- Takes personal responsibility to promote and maintain a positive Public Health image, constructive working environment, and foster pride and professionalism in the workplace and community.
- Performs other duties as required.
Supervision Exercised: This classification does not have supervisory authority; however, may be required to provide expertise or limited guidance or direction to employees, such as overseeing work quality, training, and guidance. Typically serves as a subject matter expert on the scope of functional area.
Supervision Received: Receives general supervision. This classification typically performs job duties by following established standard operating procedures and/or policies. Regular direction, guidance, and coaching from supervisor may be expected. There is a choice of the appropriate procedure or policy to apply to duties. Performance reviewed periodically.
Qualifications
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Knowledge of the principles and practices of epidemiology, disease surveillance, investigative techniques, outbreak investigations, and data management.
- Knowledge of relevant resources applicable to communicable disease prevention and control.
- Skilled in writing scientific reports and data summaries.
- Familiarity with statistical software and database management systems such as SAS, STATA, or R, as well as Excel, Access, or ArcGIS software.
- Ability to communicate, motivate, and organize projects among a broad spectrum of personnel, frequently under deadline pressure.
- Ability to cultivate working relationships both within the organization and with external partners.
- Ability to respond in a flexible manner and reprioritize work as situations change.
- Ability to identify problems and work creatively to develop resolutions and recommend corrective actions.
- Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
- Ability to perform under pressure and when confronted with persons acting under stress.
- Maintain regular and punctual attendance.
Required Education & Experience
- Master of Public Health or Science in epidemiology, biostatistics, or closely related field.
- Demonstrated experience or training in conducting public health surveillance and performing health data analysis.
Licenses/Certificates
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
- Valid CPR Certification.
Pre-Employment Requirements
- Must pass conditional post offer background investigation, motor vehicle record check, drug screen, and physical examination.
Work Conditions
Duties are primarily performed in an office and remote work environment dependent upon Department discretion and business needs ,and may contain potential exposure to infections, blood, and contagious diseases. May be required to work outside of normal business hours. Rotates day-call and night-call to cover surveillance activities with other CD staff. Some travel may be required; work may be assigned in various locations. Must be able to safely lift and carry up to 25 pounds. Public Health employees are responsible for providing proof of vaccinations and/or tuberculosis testing as applicable to the specific position and must provide proof of completion of required vaccinations/testing or proof of initiation within sixty days of hire date.
The classification specification above is intended to represent only the key areas of responsibilities and minimum qualifications; specific job assignments, duties, education, experience, licenses/certifications, and environmental conditions will vary depending on the needs of the department/office and the particular assignment. Changes to this document may only be made by a member of the Human Resources Department.
VISION
El Paso County will be a trusted regional leader known for excellence in county service delivery.
PURPOSE
We provide essential public services to the Pikes Peak Region in support of our residents, businesses, and communities, enhancing the freedom for all to thrive.
El Paso County is an E-Verify and Equal Opportunity Employer.
El Paso County adheres to Federal drug screening guidelines and requires a pre-employment drug screen.
Salary : $72,000 - $76,000
