PUBLIC HEALTH INVESTIGATOR SPECIALIST

Applications Accepted From:  All Persons Interested
PN: 37627
Division: Public Health Branch (PHB)
Section: Bureau of HIV/STD & Viral Hepatitis Prevention
Location: 8000 N. Stadium Dr., Houston, TX 77054
Workdays & Hours: Monday - Friday 8-5*
*Subject to change

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Assists STI program management with the direction, monitoring, evaluation, and development of Disease Intervention Specialist (DIS) performance to enable the program to meet objectives and increase program effectiveness.  
• Coordinates the preparation of quality assurance reports and offers programmatic recommendations based on these results.
• Assists with planning, coordination and implementation of Molecular HIV Surveillance activities for the Houston STI Program. 
• Reviews and interprets the output of quality assurance reports to ensure programmatic activities and benchmarks are being achieved.
• Reviews medical records and laboratory reports to obtain communicable disease diagnosis and treatment with appropriate follow-up.
• Searches and collects data from multiple databases, adhering strictly to established data collection procedures with attention to detail. 
• Coordinates and conducts FSTDI training for new DIS personnel involved in disease intervention activities, including remedial training for appropriate staff. 
• Conduct confidential interviews and investigations of individuals diagnosed with or suspected of being at high risk for HIV and/or sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
• Performs field investigations throughout Harris County to locate individuals who have or are suspected of having a communicable disease and motivates them to seek appropriate treatment and medical follow-up.
• Visits private and public clinical laboratories to assure compliance with reporting labs timely in respect to laboratory reporting laws and regulations.  
• Protect, maintain, and ensure client confidentiality according to HIPAA regulations and other HHD policies and procedures. 
• Serve as a liaison and resource to community members and internal/external stakeholders by providing information on CDC/DSHS standards regarding the current testing, diagnoses and treatment of STIs and HIV. 

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Requires a Bachelor's degree in Social Science, Physical Science, Public Health or a closely related field.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
Three years of experience in the public health field are required. 
Pertinent professional experience in the public health field may be substituted for the above educational requirement on a year-for-year basis. 

LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
Requires a valid Texas driver's license and compliance with the City of Houston's policy on driving.

**Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6.**

SELECTION/SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED
None. However, the Department may administer a skills assessment test.

SAFETY IMPACT POSITION:  YES
If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if candidate is promoted into this position, he/she must pass an assigned drug test.

SALARY INFORMATION 
GRANT FUNDED POSITION
Grants & Special funded positions are dependent upon continued available funds. If funding is no longer available, employee may be laid off or transferred. Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate's qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.

 Pay Grade 20

APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during active posting period. Applications must be submitted online at: www.houstontx.gov. 
 
To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfm or call 832-393-4882.
 
If you need special services or accommodations, 832-393-4882 (TTY 7-1-1).
 
If you need login assistance or technical support call 855-524-5627.
 
Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process.
 
All new and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information provided.
 
EOE Equal Opportunity Employer
The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.