Epidemiologist Research Associate

The Epidemiologist Research Associate is responsible for all infectious disease surveillance, investigations and interventions utilizing state-of-the-art public health principles, and methodologies of the science of epidemiology. Work shall be performed under the professional and programmatic oversight of the Delaware County Health Department Administration using relevant national standards of excellence; designated epidemiology and analytical tools and standards; and Delaware County Health Department policies, procedures and regulations.

The position provides a 24/7/365 expert, consultative service for the scientific disciplines of epidemiology, medicine, public health and disease prevention and control within the County. The position may supervise professional, technical and clerical subordinates. Incumbents shall conduct assessments of public health hazards; carry out epidemiological investigations; communicate/consult with regional and local health officials; and attend professional meetings throughout the United States as guided by Delaware County Health Department Administration. The Epidemiology Research Associate reports to the Delaware County Health Department Epidemiologist.  
 

• Responsible for disease outbreak investigations, managing and analyzing population-based data to identify risk factors and health needs, and analyzing service-based data to provide program evaluations
• Routinely analyze births, deaths, and disease data, and provide epidemiological interpretation
• Conduct disease cluster analysis by examining population-based data, preparing statistics, providing epidemiological interpretation of statistics, and writing reports
• Lead design, planning, analysis, and reporting of information and health intelligence based on large population-based data sets
• Assist in the evaluation of interventions or programs’ effectiveness
• Research public health issues and prepare health reports and issue briefs
• Assist other staff members gain knowledge of basic epidemiology tools and techniques
• Participate in coordinated response activities during public health emergencies through the department’s emergency management and incident command system
• Provide technical assistance for users of surveillance systems and/or other databases
• Member of health needs assessment Core Committee 
• Work shall be performed under the professional and programmatic oversight of the Delaware County Health Department, Epidemiology Division
• The ERA provides expert consultative service for the scientific disciplines of epidemiology, medicine, public health and disease prevention and control within the County
• The position may supervise professional, technical, and clerical subordinates
• Incumbents shall conduct assessments of public health hazards; carry out epidemiological investigations; communicate/consult with regional and local health officials; and attend professional meetings 
• Perform other duties, tasks and special projects, as required.

Qualifications:

• 3-5 years of field experience in detecting, controlling, or reporting illness and diseases preferred
• Skills in data analysis based on large data sets, questionnaires, and interviews
• Strong skills in oral and written communication, which includes preparation of reports, training education to public health partners and the general public, preparing written manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals and other publications
• Expertise with statistical software SAS, STATA, SPSS, Epi-Info, etc.
• Familiarity with complex surveys and statistical analysis, e.g., CDC NHANES 
• Demonstrated experience effectively leading and directing staff and/or volunteers
• Valid driver’s license and ability to pass a background check
• Ability to interact appropriately and effectively with a wide range of persons
• Ability to maintain and handle confidential information
• Ability to follow protocol, procedures, and established guidelines
• Ability to be flexible and adapt to changing circumstances and needs
• A strong work ethic and ability to manage a demanding and changing workload
• Strong relationship-building skills

Preferred Skills, Knowledge & Experience:

• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to identify, analyze, and address complex epidemiological issues.
• Commitment to maintaining high ethical standards in research, including adherence to ethical guidelines and regulations governing human subjects research.
• Ability to adapt to changing research environments and methodologies, and to apply innovative approaches to epidemiological research.

Computer Skills:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Applications (Office, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams).

• Expertise with statistical software SAS, STATA, SPSS, Epi-Info, etc.

Physical Demands:
While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, bend at the waist, and talk or hear. Occasionally, the employee will need to reach or work with arms above shoulder height, kneel, stoop, crouch or squat, crawl, drive, climb stairs, twist or rotate at the waist while working; push, lift or carry items.
Work Environment:

• The work environment includes both office settings and fieldwork. The employee must be able to work under varying environmental conditions and maintain professional performance during public health emergencies.

*The selected candidate will be required to obtain, at their own expense, 3 forms of clearance, including PA State Police Criminal History Record Check; PA Child Abuse History; and FBI Criminal History Background Check including finger printing prior to employment.

**Delaware County Health Department requires all employees be up to date for their COVID-19 vaccination per CDC guidelines. Proof of vaccination must be submitted before a candidate’s start date, if hired.

Salary : $72,014