Epidemiologist - Austin Public Health

City of Austin•Austin, TX

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Under general direction, the Epidemiologist investigates, interprets, and reports information about diseases and other public health issues in the community. The role supports community health planning by collecting, assessing, and evaluating data; maintaining databases on adverse health conditions; and developing, analyzing, and reporting strategic health indicators. It plans and coordinates epidemiologic studies and investigations, interprets data, explores links among diseases, conditions, and risk factors, and prepares investigation reports and periodic summaries on disease burden, risk factors, and health inequities. The position also participates in community health assessments and responds to public inquiries about adverse health conditions. The position performs public health investigations and surveillance, including arboviral, other vectorborne, and other assigned infectious conditions. It analyzes and interprets epidemiologic data and reports investigation findings; helps develop, maintain, and enhance disease surveillance systems for rapid detection of outbreaks and other health threats; and supports foodborne and waterborne disease investigations. It provides technical assistance and training on infectious diseases, surveillance, and emergency response and preparedness to other divisions, health professionals, and the public. The employee participates in public health response activities, meetings, exercises, and drills as requested. The position is based at 5202 E Ben White Blvd #600, Austin, Texas, with a hybrid arrangement that may allow up to 60% remote work after a probationary period, depending on business needs. The stated general schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Requirements

Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in Public Health (MPH) or a closely related field, with an emphasis on epidemiology and/or biostatistics.
One year of experience in epidemiology, data management, infectious diseases, occupational diseases, environmental health, cancer, chronic diseases, reproductive health, or another related field.
Knowledge of current epidemiological and biostatistical principles and practices.
Knowledge of computerized databases and statistical software.
Knowledge of the organization and administration of public health programs.
Knowledge of public health laws, ordinances, policies, procedures, rules, and regulations, as well as basic medical terminology.
Knowledge of current cultural, social, economic, and public health issues and community demographics.
Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships.
Skill in interviewing and assessment techniques for case investigations, including with culturally and socioeconomically diverse populations.
Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
Ability to handle multiple tasks and prioritize.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
Ability to interact effectively and professionally with people from diverse backgrounds, managers, coworkers, members of the public, and professional groups.
Ability to maintain confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and other Texas privacy laws.
Valid Texas Class C driver’s license; external new hires must meet the City of Austin Driver Record Evaluation requirements if considered for a driving position.
Comply with Austin Public Health’s immunization policy; proof of certain vaccinations is required for employees who routinely work face-to-face with specified client populations.

Nice To Haves

Experience performing public health investigations and surveillance related to infectious disease, chronic disease, drug use or misuse, injury prevention, or environmental exposures.
Experience communicating with healthcare personnel.
Experience performing analyses using statistical software such as SAS, R, or Power BI.
Experience writing SQL queries.
Experience creating and managing spreadsheets in Microsoft Excel.
Bilingual ability, with Spanish preferred.

Responsibilities

Assist with data collection, assessment, and evaluation for community health planning.
Establish, maintain, and improve databases concerning adverse health conditions.
Develop, analyze, and report strategic community health indicators.
Plan, develop, direct, and coordinate epidemiologic studies and investigations.
Analyze and interpret epidemiologic data and prepare reports of investigations and findings.
Explore relationships among diseases, health conditions, and community risk factors.
Create summaries, briefs, and comprehensive periodic reports examining disease burden, risk factors, and health inequities.
Participate in community assessments to identify key health indicators and develop ongoing assessment activities.
Respond to public inquiries about adverse health conditions.
Conduct public health investigations and surveillance for arboviral, other vectorborne, and other assigned infectious conditions.
Assist in developing, maintaining, and enhancing disease surveillance systems for rapid detection of infectious disease outbreaks and other health threats or emergencies.
Conduct or support foodborne and waterborne disease investigations.
Provide technical assistance and training to other divisions, health professionals, and the public on infectious diseases, disease surveillance, and emergency response and preparedness.
Participate in public health response activities, meetings, exercises, and drills as requested.

Benefits

Low-cost medical, dental, and vision coverage for covered employees.
Paid leave time.
Competitive retirement plan through the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.
Tuition reimbursement and possible other financial and professional development support for continuing education, licenses, and certifications.
Training opportunities.
Wellness programs and mental health support.
On-site fitness centers.
Professional development and leadership opportunities.
Work-life balance programs and generous leave.
Access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.