HEALTH PROGRAM SPECIALIST

State of Arkansas • Pine Bluff, AR

6d • $52,137 - $77,163 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Health Program Specialist is responsible for the development, coordination, implementation, and monitoring of public health programs designed to address specific health issues or populations across Arkansas. This position supports state efforts to improve community health through evidence-based program strategies, stakeholder engagement, and interagency collaboration.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in public health, health science, social work, education, public administration, or a closely related field is required.
• Strong understanding of public health principles, population health, and program development cycles.
• Ability to analyze and interpret health data, epidemiological reports, and demographic trends.
• Proficient in preparing clear and accurate program reports, policy documents, and grant submissions.
• Experience working with data systems, spreadsheets, and digital tools (e.g., Microsoft Excel, SharePoint, or program-specific software).
• Effective written and verbal communication skills with the ability to tailor messaging for professional, public, and diverse audiences.
• Frequent in-state and regional travel is required.
• A valid driver’s license is required.
• Occasional work, including but not limited to phone calls, outside of standard business hours may be required.
• A state cell phone is required with security app features installed. The phone must be with the employee and charged and turned on when in work status. An app must be installed with the capability to geo-locate.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with public schools is preferred.
• Public speaking experience is preferred.
• Experience working with Microsoft Office Programs preferred.
• A bachelor’s degree in nutrition and/or health education is preferred.
• Three (3) years of experience in planning or implementing Public Health Programs is preferred.
• Experience presenting and communicating to multi-disciplinary groups is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Plan, develop, and coordinate public health programs to address key health concerns such as chronic disease prevention, maternal and child health, environmental health, infectious disease control, injury prevention, or health promotion.
• Evaluate program effectiveness using health data, performance metrics, and community feedback; adjust goals and strategies as needed to improve outcomes.
• Develop educational materials, outreach tools, and technical guidance for community partners, stakeholders, and the public.
• Prepare reports, grant applications, and program summaries in accordance with agency, state, and federal requirements.
• Collaborate with internal departments, local health units, schools, nonprofits, and other governmental agencies to coordinate service delivery and leverage resources.
• Maintain accurate, organized records of program activities, expenditures, outcomes, and evaluations.
• Conduct community outreach and represent the agency at public events, health fairs, advisory meetings, or legislative briefings as needed.
• Ensure that all program activities are conducted in compliance with public health laws, grant conditions, and departmental policy.
• Respond to inquiries from the public or partners regarding program information and resources.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level