Epidemiologist III

The Epidemiologist III performs highly advanced (senior-level) research and epidemiological work in the area of maternal and infant health. Reports to the Epidemiology Branch Manager with minimal supervision and with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgement.

Serves as the State Systems Development Initiative (SSDI) Lead Analyst which requires building data systems and expanding the state maternal and child health (MCH) data capacity to support Title V program efforts and contribute to data driven program efforts throughout the state. Assists in partner data collection and analysis of data files for Title V MCH Block Grant reporting. Work also involves analyzing large data sets and complex sample survey data for the annual Healthy Texas Mothers and Babies Data Book, conducting highly advanced and descriptive analyses on maternal and infant health factors, and disseminating results.

Develops and maintains complex, detailed scientific protocols and operational manuals for all projects. Designs and implements data collection and data management tools for maternal and infant health surveillance. Provides research consultation and technical assistance to programmatic, medical, and public health professionals on epidemiological methods, research/surveillance design and program evaluation/assessment of public health practices on maternal and infant health. Essential Job Functions:

Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.

(30%) Work includes taking a lead role in the State Systems Development Initiative (SSDI), which complements the Title V Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Block Grant, for the MCH Epidemiology Unit. Requires building data systems and expanding the state MCH data capacity to support Title V program efforts and contribute to data driven program efforts throughout the state.

Uses advanced information technology (i.e., automation coding), data and statistical analysis, and surveillance plus GIS mapping and dashboard techniques (e.g., Tableau) to assist programs in developing solutions for improving maternal and child health throughout Texas. Assists in partner data collection and analysis of data files for Title V MCH Block Grant reporting.

(30%) Work includes analyzing large data sets (e.g., birth and death records) and complex sample survey data (e.g., Texas Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System) for the annual Healthy Texas Mothers and Babies Data Book. Conducts highly advanced and descriptive analyses on maternal and infant health factors (e.g., Perinatal Periods of Risk), including dissemination of results.

Uses specialized software, such as SAS, Python, SQL, Tableau, and ArcGIS, to analyze and display data for presentations, reports, publications, and other products. Contributes to written manuscripts and research reports based on these data for publication and/or dissemination.

(20%) Designs and implements data collection and data management tools for maternal and infant health surveillance for qualitative and quantitative research (e.g., Infant Feeding Practices Survey and breastfeeding screening from newborn screening). Develops and maintains complex, detailed scientific protocols and operational manuals on all projects. Analyzes data collected and provides updates to DSHS maternal and infant health programs.

(15%) Serves as a subject matter expert on maternal and infant health topics and epidemiology. Provides research consultation and technical assistance to programmatic, medical, and public health professionals on epidemiological methods, research/surveillance design and program evaluation/assessment of public health practices on maternal and infant health.

Assists in grant writing as needed. Works in collaboration with epidemiologists and other research specialist staff across the agency and other state/federal agencies.

(5%) Performs other duties as assigned including but not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency's obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location. Knowledge Skills Abilities:

Knowledge of the principles and functions of public health.

Knowledge of research planning and evaluation methods in epidemiology

Knowledge of laws and rules applicable to confidentiality and the management of protected health information.

Knowledge and experience with maternal and child health epidemiology.

Knowledge of advanced statistical techniques and methods.

Knowledge of statistical software, including SAS, SAS Viya, Python, and SQL; Tableau; ArcGIS; and Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

Skill in the development of technical standard operating procedures and data management plans

Skill in advanced SAS programming logic and scripting for statistical analysis of large data sets.

Skill in the use of statistical measurement techniques, research design and implementation, problem-solving methods and techniques.

Skill in effective verbal communication and technical writing, including preparation and presentation of complex data analysis.

Skill in project management with complex projects that cross divisions, agencies, and several lines of business.

Skill in identifying problems, evaluating alternatives, and negotiating and implementing solutions to data and research problems.

Skill in project management to organize major project activities into a logical sequence with a reasonable and achievable schedule of deadlines.

Skill in advanced technical writing, reporting, and interpretation of complex data to clearly and succinctly communicate project/research information for correspondence with state and federal agencies, grant applications and plans, state rules, and planning procedures.

Ability to work independently and show initiative.

Ability to conduct advanced statistical analyses with SAS.

Ability to interpret statistical analyses, charts, and tables.

Ability to organize and present information effectively, both orally and in writing, to a variety of audiences, including state and federal agency staff, legislators, and other stakeholders, which may require synthesis and translation of complex information into simpler terms.

Ability to develop and effectively deliver training and technical assistance about research/data methods and procedures.

Ability to survey relevant professional literature and other publications and stay current on existing research methodologies and research findings in area of expertise.

Ability to evaluate policies and procedures.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships, to work with others as part of a team, and to manage multiple deadlines. Registration or Licensure Requirements:

N/A Initial Selection Criteria:

Graduation from an accredited college or university with receipt of a Master's degree in epidemiology, public health, statistics, social science or a related field. Experience and education may be substituted for one another.

Experience in analyzing large databases using SAS.

Two or more years of experience in epidemiology, MCH epidemiology preferred. Additional Information:

IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION PRIOR TO SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION FOR THIS POSITION:

Information on the application must clearly state how the applicant meets initial selection criteria in the Summary of Experience section to be interviewed. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of an application.

Applicants must provide information relevant to the required experience for this position. Answer all questions and completely summarize your experience including technical and managerial responsibilities and any special training, skills, and qualifications for each position you have held in the employment history section of application.

All fields on the application must be filled-in completely. This includes, but is not limited to, previous salary, previous supervisor, and reason for leaving previous position.

This position is available as a full-time telework position as long as the applicant resides in Texas or moves to Texas.

Applicants selected for an interview will be required to provide two samples: 1) a writing sample as first author and 2) a SAS statistical program sample with examples of coding, data cleaning, data manipulation, and data analysis.

Agency salary policy, budget and candidate's qualifications will dictate the final salary offer.

Note: Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to: 68S, 60C, HM, 230X, 4E0X1, 43HX, 43MX, 43EX.

All active duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor's Military Crosswalk at http://www.hr.sao.state.tx.us/Compensation/JobDescriptions.aspx. MOS Code:

68S, 60C, HM, 230X, 4E0X1, 43HX, 43MX, 43EX

HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.

I-9 Form - Click here to download the I-9 form.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

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