Health Department - Disease Intervention Specialist

Ector County•Ector County, TX

17h

About The Position

The Disease Intervention Specialist (DIS), under the supervision of the Epidemiologist, supports the prevention, investigation, surveillance, and control of communicable diseases in the community. The role conducts disease investigations, contact tracing, patient interviews, public health education, and outreach to reduce the spread of infectious disease and protect county residents. The position coordinates with the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) on reportable conditions, surveillance activities, and required disease investigations. Workdays are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with occasional weekends and on-call duties. The position requires passing a pre-employment urinalysis drug screen.

Requirements

Knowledge of public health practices, or the ability to gain that knowledge.
Knowledge of Disease Intervention Specialist policies and procedures, or the ability to gain that knowledge.
Knowledge of the fundamentals of disease investigations and contact tracing, or the ability to gain that knowledge.
Ability to interview and establish rapport with clients from a wide range of backgrounds.
Ability to work under time constraints with minimal supervision.
Knowledge of medical terminology, human anatomy and physiology, human and zoonotic disease, and medical procedures.
Experience composing statistical reports.
Current driver's license, good driving record, and reliable transportation.
Pass a pre-employment urinalysis drug screen.

Nice To Haves

A master's degree in Public Health or a bachelor's degree related to the healthcare industry; coursework in biology, health science, social science, or environmental studies is preferred but not required.
Certification in Infection Prevention and Control (CIC) is preferred; if not already held, it must be obtained within two years of hire.
Experience in infectious disease and related issues would be beneficial.

Responsibilities

Investigate reported cases of communicable disease.
Interview patients to obtain information about symptoms, exposures, and potential risks to the community.
Conduct contact tracing and follow-up to identify individuals who may have been exposed to infectious diseases.
Monitor disease trends and assist in identifying potential outbreaks or unusual increases in disease activity.
Coordinate with the Texas Department of State Health Services regarding reportable conditions, surveillance activities, and required disease investigations.
Perform clerical functions as needed, including typing, word processing, and proofreading reports, correspondence, manuals, preparedness plans, and related documents.