Public Health Technician, (B27935-1), 206, Epidemiology

City of Laredo•Laredo, TX

About The Position

Performs moderately complex epidemiological work and public health preparedness activities. The role assists with the design, implementation, and analysis of epidemiological investigations and studies, as well as data management, data entry, and report writing. The position works under the supervision of the Epidemiology Supervisor. The technician abstracts and collects epidemiological data, conducts surveillance, analyzes and summarizes results, maintains disease databases and spreadsheets, and supports investigations of infectious diseases and syndromic surveillance. The role also prepares reports and presentations, coordinates the cooperative use of epidemiological data with other agencies, and works with health personnel to address public health problems. The position supports public health emergency preparedness and operations and responds to public health emergencies on a 24/7/365 basis. It involves interaction with the public, agencies, organizations, committees, task forces, and stakeholders through meetings, presentations, and media interviews. Other related duties may be assigned. The position requires an associate degree or 60 college hours in Public Health or a related field and at least one year of healthcare or health-related experience. A valid Texas Driver License, English and Spanish communication skills, and the ability to maintain confidentiality, manage data accurately, and work effectively with diverse populations are required. A TB test or screening must be presented before employment. Applicants offered employment must complete a background check and provide certified school transcripts; pre-employment drug and alcohol testing is required, and safety-sensitive positions are subject to random testing.

Requirements

Associate degree or 60 college hours from an accredited college or university in Public Health or a related field.
At least one year of healthcare or health-related experience.
Valid Texas Driver License; applicants with an out-of-state license must obtain a Texas Driver License within six months of employment.
Ability to communicate effectively in English and Spanish, orally and in writing.
Knowledge of public health surveillance principles, including active, passive, syndromic, and wastewater surveillance.
Knowledge of infectious disease transmission, diagnosis, and prevention.
Knowledge of basic statistical analysis methods used in infectious disease epidemiology, disease monitoring, and trend analysis.
Knowledge of public health and confidentiality laws, including HIPAA.
Knowledge of Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams), Canva, and Tableau.
Knowledge of managing large datasets and data entry.
Strong organizational, time-management, accuracy, and thoroughness skills in data review, abstraction, and entry.
Ability to interpret and analyze information from various sources, identify discrepancies or patterns, and propose data-quality improvements.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to generate clear, concise reports.
Cultural competency to work effectively with diverse populations.
Ability to follow instructions, collaborate with a team, manage multiple tasks, maintain meticulous records, and meet project deadlines.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.
Ability to maintain harmonious and effective working relationships with employees and respond to general public complaints.
Ability to project a positive, professional image of the City of Laredo.
Ability to maintain a good driving record, good health, and physical condition sufficient to perform the duties.
Ability to comply with City of Laredo policies and procedures and perform other duties as assigned.
Must present proof of a TB test or screening before employment.
Applicants offered employment must complete a thorough background check and provide certified school transcripts; pre-employment drug and alcohol testing is required.

Responsibilities

Abstract epidemiological health data from medical records of private and public health physicians and hospitals.
Collect surveillance data on specific diseases and conditions, analyze the data, and summarize findings.
Disseminate investigation, special-study, and surveillance results; prepare written and oral reports and presentations.
Maintain NEDSS disease databases and spreadsheets and analyze epidemiological data using statistical measures.
Participate in analyzing, planning, developing, coordinating, and conducting epidemiological investigations and studies.
Conduct investigations and determine sources of exposure for cases and clusters of infectious disease.
Assist with syndromic surveillance activities.
Arrange for cooperative use of epidemiological data with other agencies, states, and national organizations, including Texas DSHS.
Prepare and edit reports for internal or external publication concerning Department data, programs, activities, and guidelines.
Work with other health personnel to control public health problems and coordinate assistance with epidemiological data collection.
Participate in and provide support during public health emergency preparedness activities and related emergency operations.
Interact with the public, outside agencies, and organizations through meetings, public presentations, and media interviews.
Represent the Division or Department in meetings and communications with committees, task forces, and stakeholders to encourage timely reporting and promote interests.
Respond to public health emergencies on a 24/7/365 basis.
Perform other related duties as assigned.