PUBLIC HEALTH INVESTIGATOR

Applications accepted from: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED
PN: 37515
Division: Disease Prevention and Control
Section: Bureau of HIV/STD & Viral Hepatitis Prevention
Workdays & Hours: Monday - Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.* (occasional weekends and evenings)
*SUBJECT TO CHANGE
                                                                         
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Conducts confidential interviews and investigations of patients diagnosed with or suspected of being at high-risk for HIV and/or STI infections. 
• Performs field investigations to locate patients 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 City of Houston labs timely in respect to laboratory reporting laws and regulations.
• Protects, maintains and ensures client confidentiality according to HIPPA regulations and other HHD policies and procedures according to work classification. 
• Provides transportation to clients for any clinic follow-up appointments as needed. Performs reminder calls and recalls for missed appointments to ensure appointments are maintained. 
• Administer HIV testing via oral/blood and give results as needed. Perform venipuncture sticks whenever possible if necessary.   

WORKING CONDITIONS
The position occasionally requires stooping or bending. Occasional very light lifting, such as three or four reams of papers or books (up to 20 pounds or an equivalent weight) may be required.EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Requires a high school diploma or a GED.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
Two years of experience with public contact in the social service or public health field or in a high-volume customer service environment are required.

SUBSTITUTION:
An Associate’s degree may be substituted for the required experience.



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.**

Bi-lingual (Spanish-speaking) and non-bilingual applicants should apply. Able to work untraditional hours (after 5pm) and flex-time if needed. Exceptional organizational skills, strong ability to prioritize tasks and duties, possess critical thinking skills with the ability to multi-task, excellent written and oral communication skills, Great interpersonal skills with the ability to interface and work with all facets of the organization. Also, proven experience with Micro-Soft Office products, excel, etc. SELECTION/SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED
None. However, the Department may administer a skills assessment test.

SAFETY IMPACT POSITION   YES     
If yes, this position may subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.
 
SALARY INFORMATION   GRANT FUNDS
 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: 12

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 have questions, need special services or accommodations, call (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 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.

Salary : $22 - $24