Rabies Program Investigator (Program Coordinator I)-61007458

State of South Carolina • Greenwood County, SC

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

Under general supervision, perform assigned inspections, evaluations, and complaint investigations for the Rabies Prevention Program. Provides knowledge and understanding of the Rabies Prevention Program and participates with rabies on call procedures. Conducts animal bite investigations in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and enforcement requirements per the Rabies Control Act. Investigates animal bite reports potential rabies exposures, issues quarantine notices for animals as required using agency technological reporting software. Communicates effectively with victims and stakeholders following programmatic guidance, and state/federal laws and regulations. In coordination with external and internal stakeholders, submits prepared specimens to Public Health Laboratory for rabies testing. Submits detailed, factual, and complete inspection reports in a timely manner as outlined in the rabies SOP for the agency. Develops advanced knowledge and understanding of the Rabies Program. Communicates effectively with victims and stakeholders following programmatic guidance, and state/federal laws and regulations. Develops advanced knowledge and understanding of the Rabies Program and participates with rabies on call procedures to include holidays and weekends. Assists in the coordination and promotion of rabies low-cost vaccine clinics and educational outreach events. Assists with conducting outreach as required when rabies positive cases have been identified. Provides technical assistance and proper documentation of investigations/activities; subject to 24/7 on-call and call back duties on a rotational basis. Completes all necessary administrative tasks and documentation as required and requested to include fulfilling Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. Performs other duties as assigned, which includes, but is not limited to, attending periodic staff meetings and training.

Requirements

• A high school diploma and relevant program experience.
• Must have a valid state driver's license and ability to operate personal and state-owned vehicles.
• Possess excellent written and oral communication skills.
• General knowledge of functions and interdependence of the public health laws, sanitation principles and practices.
• Must be capable of dealing effectively with the public and regulated community.
• Ability to access non-traditional work environments.
• Able to lift up to 50 pounds on occasion, if needed.
• Able and willing to work in all weather conditions.
• Overnight travel, weekend, after hours, and holiday work may be required on occasion.
• Subject to 24/7 on-call or call back service per region rotation.
• Must be a self-starter with the ability to take the initiative with limited supervision.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, both verbally and in writing.
• Proficient in the Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Outlook, Teams, Word), with the ability to learn new technological programs.
• Any equivalent combination of education and/or experience that demonstrates the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered in meeting the minimum qualifications, subject to approval by the DPH Chief Human Resources Officer, or their delegate.

Nice To Haves

• Passionate about community health and safety.
• Two (2) years of experience in customer service, environmental health, or a related role.
• Experience as a veterinarian assistant or technician, zookeeper, wildlife technician, kennel technician, or a related role is strongly preferred.
• Bilingual, Spanish speaking.

Responsibilities

• Perform assigned inspections, evaluations, and complaint investigations for the Rabies Prevention Program.
• Conduct animal bite investigations in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and enforcement requirements per the Rabies Control Act.
• Investigate animal bite reports and potential rabies exposures.
• Issue quarantine notices for animals as required using agency technological reporting software.
• Submit prepared specimens to Public Health Laboratory for rabies testing in coordination with external and internal stakeholders.
• Submit detailed, factual, and complete inspection reports in a timely manner as outlined in the rabies SOP for the agency.
• Participate with rabies on call procedures, including holidays and weekends.
• Assist in the coordination and promotion of rabies low-cost vaccine clinics and educational outreach events.
• Assist with conducting outreach as required when rabies positive cases have been identified.
• Provide technical assistance and proper documentation of investigations/activities.
• Complete all necessary administrative tasks and documentation as required and requested, including fulfilling Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests.
• Attend periodic staff meetings and training.

Benefits

• 15 days Annual (Vacation) Leave per year
• 15 days Sick Leave per year
• 13 Paid Holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• Health, dental, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance for employees, spouse, and children.
• S.C. Deferred Compensation Program available
• Retirement benefit choices: State Retirement Plan (SCRS) or State Optional Retirement Program (State ORP)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED