PUBLIC HEALTH SECTION CHIEF

State of Arkansas • Little Rock, AR

1d • $71,027 - $105,120 • Onsite

About The Position

The Public Health Section Chief is a senior leadership position within the Arkansas Department of Health’s Division of Health Advancement – Women’s Health. The role directs operations for an assigned program section and leads the development, implementation, and oversight of public health programs and services aligned with state priorities, statutory responsibilities, and the agency’s mission to protect and improve the health and well-being of Arkansans.

The position oversees section operations and administration, leads a multidisciplinary team, manages resources and program performance, and works with internal and external partners. It may represent the section and agency in interagency workgroups, advisory councils, legislative sessions, or community forums, and may contribute to emergency response operations, including serving in an incident command role when necessary. Some in-state and out-of-state travel may be required. The position is classified as safety sensitive and requires a valid driver’s license.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in public health, health administration, environmental health, nursing, social work, life sciences, or a related field.
• Three years of experience in a public health, administrative, or program coordination setting.
• One year of supervisory experience.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to lead complex program operations, including budgeting, planning, and policy implementation.
• Experience with quality improvement, program evaluation, and performance measurement.
• Skill in interpreting and applying regulatory and legal guidance in program settings.
• Strong supervisory and coaching skills, including the ability to build trust, motivate teams, and resolve conflict.
• Ability to support workforce effectiveness through recruitment, training, and succession planning.
• Competence in strategic planning, goal setting, and prioritizing resources to meet health objectives.
• Ability to respond to evolving public health challenges through flexible, evidence-informed action.

Responsibilities

• Direct planning, implementation, and evaluation of activities within the assigned public health program section.
• Oversee operational and administrative functions, including staff supervision, workflow coordination, and resource management.
• Lead and manage a multidisciplinary team; assign responsibilities, coach staff, and conduct performance evaluations.
• Develop and implement section goals, policies, and procedures aligned with the agency mission and public health best practices.
• Monitor program performance using data and outcomes, and adjust operations to improve efficiency, effectiveness, and equity.
• Prepare budgets, allocate resources, and manage contracts or grants within the section.
• Represent the section and agency in interagency workgroups, advisory councils, legislative sessions, or community forums.
• Collaborate with internal and external partners to coordinate public health initiatives and strengthen service delivery.
• Contribute to emergency response operations, including serving in an incident command role when necessary.

What This Job Offers

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