Epidemiologist II

Summary Objective

The purpose of this position is to conduct senior-level investigations used in the prevention and control of

infectious, communicable or chronic diseases, injuries, and other health conditions and in the planning of

health programs. This class monitors and evaluates disease intervention, prevention activities and health

indicators, designs surveys and questionnaires to collect and assess information on diseases and health

indicators. The Senior Epidemiologist leads teams of health specialists with complex epidemiological

services and related projects of the department; and researches, prepares and presents reports and other

information to health officials and public with independent judgement.

This class works under general supervision, independently developing work methods and sequences.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The essential functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this class. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the class as necessary.

• Researches, collects, analyzes and interprets data to perform advanced epidemiologic studies on distribution and determinants of communicable or other diseases and health indicators

• Develops and implements policies and procedures to comply with federal, state, and local laws, programmatic guidelines, professional standards, theories and regulations

• Conducts field investigations and leads teams during disease outbreaks, prepares technical and statistical reports and completes special projects

• Analyzes epidemiologic investigation data, adapts, or combines a variety of existing statistical methods to fulfill specific project needs

• Monitors program reports to ensure compliance with grant or disease reporting regulations, and provides technical assistance and information concerning regulation procedures or grant performance requirements

• Collaborates with scientists in the survey or investigation design process, determining methodological techniques and processes, and designing questionnaires and other data-collection instruments

• Reviews reports and maintains epidemiology publications, periodicals, and literature to determine disease and health indicator trends

• Prepares recommendations and presents and leads plans of action to reduce the occurrence and severity of communicable and other diseases and to address identified issues.

• Prepares senior-level technical reports on epidemiological studies, investigations and research.

• Recommends, carries out, and oversees research projects with independent judgement

• Identifies program surveillance data needs, designs instruments for the collection of surveillance information and data, and implements new, or revises existing surveillance systems.

• Trains for and responds to emergencies in assigned duty areas to support public and environmental health emergency functions.

• Performs related work as assigned.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Master's Degree in Biostatistics, Community Health, Epidemiology, Public Health, Social Science with Research Concentration, Statistics, or related discipline.

• Two (2) years of epidemiology, scientific statistical analysis, or medical research experience or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

OTHER MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license with an acceptable driving history.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Physical demands refer to the requirements for physical exertion and coordination of limb and body movement.

• Performs sedentary work that involves walking or standing some of the time and involves exerting up to 10 pounds of force on a regular and recurring basis or sustained keyboard operations.

UNAVOIDABLE HAZARDS (WORK ENVIRONMENT)

Unavoidable hazards refer to the job conditions that may lead to injury or health hazards even though precautions have been taken.

• None.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE

Louisville Metro Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires the Louisville Metro Government to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.

STANDARD CLAUSES

May be required to work nights, weekends, holidays and emergencies (man-made or natural) to meet the business needs of Louisville Metro Government. Must have the ability to perform duties of considerable complexity, with the exercise of professional judgment regularly applied to complex and sensitive public health issues. The class has concise abilities to follow Tier 2 (Mid-Level epidemiologist) Competencies for Applied Epidemiologists in governmental public health agencies (CAEs) created by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of essential functions and responsibilities that are required of an employee for this job. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

ESSENTIAL SAFETY FUNCTIONS

It is the responsibility of each employee to comply with established policies, procedures and safe work practices. Each employee must follow safety training and instructions provided by their supervisor. Each employee must also properly wear and maintain all personal protective equipment required for their job. Finally, each employee must immediately report any unsafe work practices or unsafe conditions as well as any on-the-job injury or illnesses. Every manager/supervisor is responsible for enforcing all safety rules and regulations. In addition, they are responsible for ensuring that a safe work environment is maintained, safe work practices are followed and employees are properly trained.

Specialty area: Center for Health Equity: Research and Academic Partnerships