Communicable Disease Specialist

About the Role

The Southeast Health District, Office of Infectious Disease is seeking a highly qualified candidate for the full-time, salaried position of Communicable Disease Specialist based in Waycross, GA or Statesboro, GA. You will join a dedicated group of public health professionals supporting the mission of protecting the lives of Georgia residents. The Southeast Health District serves 16 counties in Georgia, including Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Brantley, Bulloch, Candler, Charlton, Clinch, Coffee, Evans, Jeff Davis, Pierce, Tattnall, Toombs, Ware, and Wayne.

The Georgia Department of Public Health is committed to preventing disease, injury, and disability; promoting health and well-being; and preparing the State of Georgia for disasters.

Responsibilities

• Plan, develop, and conduct communicable disease-related investigations within the health district or assigned area.
• Implement timely disease intervention strategies, including interviewing patients, contact tracing, and notifying partners of exposures.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data and disease-related information; prepare epidemiologic reports for programmatic purposes.
• Provide limited training, technical assistance, and consultative services regarding disease control.
• Oversee outreach, education, and HIV testing within priority populations and public health clinic settings.
• Ensure individuals who test positive are rapidly linked to care and collaborate with the Office of HIV/AIDS Regional Coordinator.
• Perform various other duties as assigned in support of section and district operations.

This is an entry-level/training role within the Communicable Disease Specialist job series and may require additional training to gain full proficiency.

Requirements

• Associate degree in medical and preventive services from an accredited college or university.
• Two (2) years of experience in a related field.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Public Health, Behavioral or Life Sciences, or a related field.
• Major or minor coursework in the behavioral or life sciences.
• Experience working in a public health setting.
• Knowledge of computer applications related to public health (e.g., Immunization Registry, SendSS, and M&M).
• Familiarity with communicable diseases and their prevention.
• Strong interviewing and counseling skills.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and complete assignments with minimal supervision.
• Ability to work and communicate respectfully with individuals from diverse backgrounds, particularly on sensitive health topics.

Additional Information

• Southeast Health District encourages wellness activities; employees may use up to 30 minutes per workday for wellness breaks.
• Current State employees are subject to State Personnel Board rules regarding salary.
• Educational credentials recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and/or the US Department of Education (DOE) will be considered.
• The selected candidate may be subject to pre-employment drug screening and a criminal background check.
• In the event of an identified emergency, employees may be required to assist in meeting the emergency responsibilities of the department.
• Fingerprint Criminal Records Investigation is required.