Public Health Specialist III - Chronic Disease

Are you a compassionate public health professional who wants to use their knowledge to make a positive difference in the lives of Vermonters? Join the Vermont Department of Health’s Springfield District Office team as a Public Health Specialist (Chronic Disease). This role supports local health department efforts to improve health outcomes across 15 towns, focusing on systems-level work and community partnerships to address disparities in chronic disease.

About the role

The Public Health Specialist (Chronic Disease) will engage with community partners to improve health outcomes in priority areas such as oral health, tobacco prevention and cessation, access to preventive care, and nutrition. Ideal candidates understand the root causes of health inequities and have experience collaborating across sectors, including with non-traditional partners.

Responsibilities

• Identify, plan, implement, and evaluate systemic and policy solutions to improve oral health outcomes, reduce tobacco use and obesity, and increase access to nutritious food for children and adults.
• Develop and assess systemic and policy solutions to improve access to preventive health services and reduce barriers to care for all ages.
• Collaborate with worksites to enhance employee health and wellness, leading to financial benefits, reduced healthcare costs, and a more productive workforce.
• Provide technical support for integrating health equity and access-to-care strategies into municipal and organizational planning.
• Support community-based coalitions in analyzing health data, setting goals, and developing plans to improve health outcomes.
• Collaborate with diverse partners to implement the 3-4-50 chronic disease model in the district.

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications include one of the following:

• Four (4) or more years of experience in public health, human services, emergency response, community engagement, program administration, or related fields.
• An associate degree in public health, public administration, business administration, environmental science, emergency response, human services, social sciences, or health-related fields, plus three (3) or more years of relevant experience.
• A bachelor’s degree in the above fields plus two (2) or more years of relevant experience.
• A master’s degree in the above fields plus one (1) or more years of relevant experience.
• One (1) or more years of experience as a Public Health Specialist II.

Work Environment

• Duties are performed in both office and field settings.
• Private transportation is required for travel.
• Hybrid work environment combining in-person and remote work, with schedules determined collaboratively with supervisors.
• Potential stress in emotional situations involving program applications, families, and resource allocation.

Benefits

The State of Vermont offers a comprehensive benefits package worth about 30% of total compensation, including:

• 80% state-paid medical premium and no-cost dental plan for employees and their families.
• 11 paid holidays and generous leave plans.
• State-paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI).
• Two retirement savings options: a defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan.
• Tuition reimbursement and flexible spending accounts for healthcare and childcare.
• Low-cost group life insurance and an incentive-based Wellness Program.
• Qualification for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness.

Mission and Values

The Vermont Department of Health’s mission is to promote physical, mental, and social well-being by advancing equity, protecting against disease and injury, and preparing for health emergencies. Its vision is equitable opportunities for all people and communities in Vermont to achieve their highest level of health and well-being.

The Division of Local Health values:

• Equity: Centering health justice and addressing racism and oppression in programs, policies, and workforce development.
• Collaboration: Engaging staff and partners to understand complex problems and design responsive solutions.
• Inclusion: Fostering a culture of belonging, diversity, and authenticity.
• Harmony: Supporting a balanced, thoughtful, and intentional work environment.
• Data: Striving for scientific excellence and cultural responsiveness in data collection, analysis, and use.

This position is open to all State employees and external applicants. Candidates must pass applicable background checks, including criminal record, DMV, and abuse registry checks.