What are the responsibilities and job description for the Epidemiologist I position at Advantage xPO?
Position Description
Job Title: Epidemiologist I
Full Time/Part Time: Full Time
Job Location: 2521 W FRONT ST, TX
Salary Range: $3520.33 - $4633.50
Regular/Temporary: Days (First)
Travel: 20%
Job Description:
Under the supervision of the Communicable Disease Manager provides leadership to the
Communicable Disease Program for Infectious Disease Surveillance. The CD program
aims to improve disease detection, reporting and prevention of infectious diseases of
communicable concern in the jurisdictions served by PHR 4/5N, with a special focus on
TB/HIV-STD. Infectious diseases of communicable concern are those affecting humans
that can be introduced or amplified by virtue of the movement of people, products, or
animals; this often requires coordination to identify, monitor and control. CD
Epidemiologist performs moderately complex (journey-level) epidemiological work by
designing, implementing, and analyzing epidemiological investigations or studies. May
establish active, surveillance systems using standardized data collection and laboratory
diagnostic testing for infectious diseases, with a special focus on TB/HIV-STD. Responds
to requests for infectious disease information from health care providers and the public.
May participate in infectious disease outbreak investigations. Networks and develops
partnerships with local and state public health entities. Works in conjunction with the local
health departments and public health colleagues. Serves as a consultant to health
professionals and the general public on public health matters in the Region through
education and training related to surveillance, disease reporting, and infectious diseases.
Works under general supervision with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and
independent judgment.
Essential Job Functions:
EJF 1. (30 %) EPIDEMIOLOGY AND SURVEILLANCE: Improves surveillance for infectious disease of importance by collecting and analyzing epidemiologic data to detect trends, outbreaks, or unusual occurrences in Region 4/5N, with a special focus on TB/HIV-STD. Manages any surveillance sites participating in Region 4/5N by coordinating the recruitment, collection and reporting activity. Maintains and improves the program's surveillance and database system. Maintains disease databases, and analyzes epidemiological data from the CD Program. Develops tools to assess data on TB/HIV-STD cases. Develops clear guidelines case investigation processes. Integrates disease surveillance systems and carries out quality assurance of case notifications. In collaboration with Communicable Disease program staff, develops or revises regional protocols for case reporting. May coordinate data collection procedures with hospitals and laboratories, as well abstract data from patient charts. Uses National Electronic Disease Surveillance System (NEDSS)-Based System (NBS). Assists with epidemiological studies. May coordinate the collection of clinical or environmental specimens for surveillance projects or outbreak investigations and oversee the submission of such specimens for analysis. Develops or maintains case investigation tracking database.
EJF 2. (30 %) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: Assists regional response to disease clusters or outbreaks. Builds and maintains collaborative relationships with local and state epidemiology and surveillance partners. Implements the guidelines for infectious disease prevention and control via the established protocols. Improves completeness and timeliness of reporting of surveillance data, including effective use of QA/QC processes. Provides accurate, timely and relevant information to partners and the general public when requested while maintaining appropriate levels of confidentiality. Develops and implements public health interventions addressing the disease priorities in the PHR 4/5N. Prepares and distributes statistical data reports used to set regional priorities. Improves coordination and exchange of PH information in the region. In collaboration with CD Program staff, plays a leadership role in epidemiology workgroups and other networks to improve public health response in the region.
EJF3. (20 %) TRAINING AND EDUCATION: Develops and delivers training programs or presentations targeting the improvement of reporting and surveillance of notifiable conditions of concern. Supports efforts to improve reporting and awareness through the preparation of articles and reports. Promotes preventative measures through community education. Provides region workforce training to respond to infectious disease events. May work with CD program staff to develop or implement community health worker curricula focusing on infectious diseases.
EJF4. (10 %) PROGRAM MANAGEMENT: Attend teleconferences, conferences, workshops & training related to the position. Serves on epidemiology & surveillance task force workgroups. Assists with the coordination of events such as conferences or trainings. Develops work plans, progress reports, & assessments. In coordination with supervisor, manages aspects of project planning, budgeting, quality control & evaluation of CD projects.
EJF5. (10 %) OTHER DUTIES: Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to helping meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift and/or location assignment.
Knowledge Skills Abilities:
Knowledge of principles and methods of epidemiology, biostatistics, and the epidemiology of infectious disease.
Knowledge of state laws pertaining to disease reporting and the prevention and control of communicable disease.
Knowledge of current social, economic and public health issues relevant to Public Health Region 4/5N.
Knowledge of medical terminology and laboratory tests.
Knowledge of educational program development and implementation.
Skill in word processing, database development and management, spreadsheet software, and graphics design software including Word, Outlook, Access, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Skill in using statistical software packages such as Epi Info, SPSS, SAS, or R.
Skill in public speaking.
Skill in writing and editing.
Skill in mathematical and statistical computations.
Ability to conduct investigations.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
Ability to plan, develop and oversee disease surveillance programs.
Ability to analyze situations and determine courses of action.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external customers. Ability to work independently, exercising sound judgment.
Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
Ability to travel.
Ability to work effectively in a diverse environment.
NOTE: May require working hours other than 8-5, M-F
Safe operation of a state-owned, rental or personal vehicle is required to conduct state business and an acceptable driving record must be maintained in accordance with DSHS policy. Must comply with the DSHS immunization policy.
Registration or Licensure Requirements:
Must possess a valid Class C Texas driver’s license, or equivalent from another state.
Initial Selection Criteria:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Relevant work experience will be accepted on a year-for year basis in lieu of degree.
Experience in disease epidemiology and surveillance case work, disease prevention and control, and data management are preferred.
Experience with statistical analysis or mapping preferred
Additional Information:
DSHS facilities are tobacco free
Other duties as assigned include, but are not limited to, actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. May perform a variety of functions during a public health emergency, in accordance with NIMS-compliant ICS management structure and the HSR 4/5N All-Hazards Emergency Management Plan. Safe operation of either a state-owned vehicle or personal vehicle is required to conduct state business and an acceptable driving record must be maintained in accordance with DSHS Policy OS-3901, Fleet Operations and Management & Procedures and standards developed by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Compliance with DSHS employee immunization policy.
I-9 documentation must be provided on the first day of employment.
This position is currently headquartered in Tyler, TX and will have significant telework options for high performing team member.
MOS Code:
68S, 60C, HM, 230X, 4E0X1, 43HX, 43MX, 43EX
HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.
Job Title: Epidemiologist I
Full Time/Part Time: Full Time
Job Location: 2521 W FRONT ST, TX
Salary Range: $3520.33 - $4633.50
Regular/Temporary: Days (First)
Travel: 20%
Job Description:
Under the supervision of the Communicable Disease Manager provides leadership to the
Communicable Disease Program for Infectious Disease Surveillance. The CD program
aims to improve disease detection, reporting and prevention of infectious diseases of
communicable concern in the jurisdictions served by PHR 4/5N, with a special focus on
TB/HIV-STD. Infectious diseases of communicable concern are those affecting humans
that can be introduced or amplified by virtue of the movement of people, products, or
animals; this often requires coordination to identify, monitor and control. CD
Epidemiologist performs moderately complex (journey-level) epidemiological work by
designing, implementing, and analyzing epidemiological investigations or studies. May
establish active, surveillance systems using standardized data collection and laboratory
diagnostic testing for infectious diseases, with a special focus on TB/HIV-STD. Responds
to requests for infectious disease information from health care providers and the public.
May participate in infectious disease outbreak investigations. Networks and develops
partnerships with local and state public health entities. Works in conjunction with the local
health departments and public health colleagues. Serves as a consultant to health
professionals and the general public on public health matters in the Region through
education and training related to surveillance, disease reporting, and infectious diseases.
Works under general supervision with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and
independent judgment.
Essential Job Functions:
EJF 1. (30 %) EPIDEMIOLOGY AND SURVEILLANCE: Improves surveillance for infectious disease of importance by collecting and analyzing epidemiologic data to detect trends, outbreaks, or unusual occurrences in Region 4/5N, with a special focus on TB/HIV-STD. Manages any surveillance sites participating in Region 4/5N by coordinating the recruitment, collection and reporting activity. Maintains and improves the program's surveillance and database system. Maintains disease databases, and analyzes epidemiological data from the CD Program. Develops tools to assess data on TB/HIV-STD cases. Develops clear guidelines case investigation processes. Integrates disease surveillance systems and carries out quality assurance of case notifications. In collaboration with Communicable Disease program staff, develops or revises regional protocols for case reporting. May coordinate data collection procedures with hospitals and laboratories, as well abstract data from patient charts. Uses National Electronic Disease Surveillance System (NEDSS)-Based System (NBS). Assists with epidemiological studies. May coordinate the collection of clinical or environmental specimens for surveillance projects or outbreak investigations and oversee the submission of such specimens for analysis. Develops or maintains case investigation tracking database.
EJF 2. (30 %) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: Assists regional response to disease clusters or outbreaks. Builds and maintains collaborative relationships with local and state epidemiology and surveillance partners. Implements the guidelines for infectious disease prevention and control via the established protocols. Improves completeness and timeliness of reporting of surveillance data, including effective use of QA/QC processes. Provides accurate, timely and relevant information to partners and the general public when requested while maintaining appropriate levels of confidentiality. Develops and implements public health interventions addressing the disease priorities in the PHR 4/5N. Prepares and distributes statistical data reports used to set regional priorities. Improves coordination and exchange of PH information in the region. In collaboration with CD Program staff, plays a leadership role in epidemiology workgroups and other networks to improve public health response in the region.
EJF3. (20 %) TRAINING AND EDUCATION: Develops and delivers training programs or presentations targeting the improvement of reporting and surveillance of notifiable conditions of concern. Supports efforts to improve reporting and awareness through the preparation of articles and reports. Promotes preventative measures through community education. Provides region workforce training to respond to infectious disease events. May work with CD program staff to develop or implement community health worker curricula focusing on infectious diseases.
EJF4. (10 %) PROGRAM MANAGEMENT: Attend teleconferences, conferences, workshops & training related to the position. Serves on epidemiology & surveillance task force workgroups. Assists with the coordination of events such as conferences or trainings. Develops work plans, progress reports, & assessments. In coordination with supervisor, manages aspects of project planning, budgeting, quality control & evaluation of CD projects.
EJF5. (10 %) OTHER DUTIES: Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to helping meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift and/or location assignment.
Knowledge Skills Abilities:
Knowledge of principles and methods of epidemiology, biostatistics, and the epidemiology of infectious disease.
Knowledge of state laws pertaining to disease reporting and the prevention and control of communicable disease.
Knowledge of current social, economic and public health issues relevant to Public Health Region 4/5N.
Knowledge of medical terminology and laboratory tests.
Knowledge of educational program development and implementation.
Skill in word processing, database development and management, spreadsheet software, and graphics design software including Word, Outlook, Access, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Skill in using statistical software packages such as Epi Info, SPSS, SAS, or R.
Skill in public speaking.
Skill in writing and editing.
Skill in mathematical and statistical computations.
Ability to conduct investigations.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
Ability to plan, develop and oversee disease surveillance programs.
Ability to analyze situations and determine courses of action.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external customers. Ability to work independently, exercising sound judgment.
Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
Ability to travel.
Ability to work effectively in a diverse environment.
NOTE: May require working hours other than 8-5, M-F
Safe operation of a state-owned, rental or personal vehicle is required to conduct state business and an acceptable driving record must be maintained in accordance with DSHS policy. Must comply with the DSHS immunization policy.
Registration or Licensure Requirements:
Must possess a valid Class C Texas driver’s license, or equivalent from another state.
Initial Selection Criteria:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Relevant work experience will be accepted on a year-for year basis in lieu of degree.
Experience in disease epidemiology and surveillance case work, disease prevention and control, and data management are preferred.
Experience with statistical analysis or mapping preferred
Additional Information:
DSHS facilities are tobacco free
Other duties as assigned include, but are not limited to, actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. May perform a variety of functions during a public health emergency, in accordance with NIMS-compliant ICS management structure and the HSR 4/5N All-Hazards Emergency Management Plan. Safe operation of either a state-owned vehicle or personal vehicle is required to conduct state business and an acceptable driving record must be maintained in accordance with DSHS Policy OS-3901, Fleet Operations and Management & Procedures and standards developed by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Compliance with DSHS employee immunization policy.
I-9 documentation must be provided on the first day of employment.
This position is currently headquartered in Tyler, TX and will have significant telework options for high performing team member.
MOS Code:
68S, 60C, HM, 230X, 4E0X1, 43HX, 43MX, 43EX
HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.
About Advantage xPO
Advantage xPO is committed to providing equal employment opportunity for all persons regardless of race, color, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, pregnancy, medical condition, genetic information, mental and physical disability, political affiliation, union membership, status as a parent, military or veteran status or other non-merit based factors. We will provide reasonable accommodations throughout the application, interviewing and employment process. If you require a reasonable accommodation, contact us. Advantage xPO is an E-Verify employer. This policy is applicable to all phases of the employment relationship, including hiring, transfers, promotions, training, terminations, working conditions, compensation, benefits, and other terms and conditions of employment.
All employees are directed to familiarize themselves with this policy and to act in accordance with it. All decisions with respect to employment matters and other phases of employer-temporary employee relationships will be in keeping with this policy and in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations.
