EPIDEMIOLOGY MANAGER

State of Arkansas•North Little Rock, AR

23h

About The Position

The Epidemiology Manager is a senior-level position responsible for managing and overseeing epidemiological activities, including surveillance, research, and disease outbreak response, within the department. This role is central to the development, implementation, and evaluation of public health strategies and programs designed to prevent and control disease outbreaks and improve the overall health of Arkansas residents. The Epidemiology Manager will lead a team of epidemiologists and public health professionals, ensuring high-quality data collection, research, and analysis. This position will also serve as a subject matter expert in epidemiology, collaborating with various stakeholders to inform policy decisions and health interventions. A successful candidate will demonstrate strong leadership skills, expertise in epidemiological methods, and the ability to manage multiple public health initiatives.

Requirements

Proven ability to manage and lead a team of public health professionals, including providing guidance, support, and performance evaluations. Strong leadership skills to foster collaboration, motivate staff, and achieve public health goals.
In-depth knowledge of epidemiological methods, data analysis, disease surveillance, and public health research. Expertise in both infectious and chronic disease epidemiology, as well as environmental health.
Proficient in analyzing large datasets and applying statistical methods to interpret public health data. Familiarity with epidemiological software such as SAS, R, SPSS, and Epi Info for statistical analysis and data management.
Strong problem-solving abilities to address complex public health challenges, including identifying root causes of disease outbreaks and implementing solutions. Ability to think critically and make data-driven decisions under pressure.
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present complex epidemiological information to diverse audiences, including policymakers, stakeholders, and the public. Ability to write clear reports, research papers, and policy recommendations.
Strong understanding of ethical standards and legal regulations governing public health research, epidemiological data collection, and patient confidentiality. Knowledge of relevant laws such as HIPAA and data privacy regulations.
A bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, or a related field from an accredited institution is required, plus five (5) years of professional experience in epidemiology or public health research.

Nice To Haves

Minimum two years’ experience managing and supervising staff
Experience in project management and interdisciplinary teamwork
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Experience communicating with multiple stakeholders, including technical professionals, public administrators, and elected officials
Experience in reviewing and writing technical reports
Experience interpreting engineering plans, specifications, and designs

Responsibilities

Lead and manage the Epidemiology Division, overseeing the daily operations and activities of the team.
Supervise and provide guidance to epidemiologists and other public health professionals, ensuring that all tasks and projects are carried out efficiently and in alignment with departmental goals and public health objectives. Conduct performance evaluations, provide feedback, and foster a positive, supportive work environment.
Develop, implement, and manage statewide epidemiological programs aimed at disease prevention, surveillance, and public health promotion. Use data-driven approaches to identify public health priorities, set goals, and create strategies to address emerging health threats and improve population health outcomes.
Oversee and coordinate statewide disease surveillance systems to track communicable and non-communicable diseases, environmental health threats, and other public health risks. Analyze health data, monitor trends, and assess the effectiveness of existing health initiatives. Provide reports and make recommendations for public health interventions and resource allocation.
Lead the investigation and response to public health emergencies, including infectious disease outbreaks and environmental health crises. Coordinate resources and collaborate with local health departments, healthcare providers, and other public health entities to mitigate the spread of disease and reduce health impacts. Guide staff in implementing outbreak control measures and communicating with the public and stakeholders.
Oversee epidemiological research projects to identify the causes and distribution of diseases, assess risk factors, and evaluate health interventions. Design and supervise complex research studies, including cohort studies, case-control studies, and clinical trials. Ensure high standards of data quality, integrity, and compliance with ethical guidelines and research regulations.
Ensure the proper collection, management, and analysis of public health data from multiple sources, including healthcare facilities, public health reports, and statewide health surveys. Oversee the preparation of detailed reports, research papers, and presentations that communicate research findings, epidemiological trends, and public health recommendations to policymakers, government officials, and the public.
Provide expert advice on public health policy development, using epidemiological data to advocate for effective health interventions and resource allocation. Collaborate with policymakers to develop public health policies and regulations that address disease prevention, health equity, and other key public health priorities.
Lead training and professional development programs for staff, public health professionals, and community stakeholders on epidemiological methods, data analysis, and disease prevention strategies. Foster a culture of continuous learning and ensure that team members stay up-to-date with the latest developments in epidemiology and public health.
Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations governing public health practices, disease surveillance, and data management. Implement quality assurance processes to ensure that all epidemiological research and activities meet high standards of accuracy, reliability, and ethical conduct.
Serve as a spokesperson and expert in epidemiology for the Arkansas Department of Health. Communicate complex public health issues, disease outbreaks, and research findings to the public, media, and government officials. Promote public health awareness and educate the community about health risks and preventive measures.