Epidemiologist

Under supervision, plans, develops, and conducts epidemiologic investigations, disease surveillance activities, and public health interventions of limited scope and/or complexity to determine the causes and patterns of diseases and support the implementation of appropriate disease prevention and control measures. Collects, analyzes, and interprets epidemiologic and statistical data; prepares reports; and provides technical assistance and consultation to internal and external partners regarding disease surveillance, investigation, and control.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Epidemiologic Investigations and Disease Control

• Plans and conduct epidemiologic investigations of communicable and other reportable diseases, including case interviews, contact tracing, and follow-up activities for notifiable diseases.
• Collects and evaluates information to identify potential sources of infection, patterns of disease transmission, and factors contributing to disease occurrence.
• Supports the implementation of disease prevention and control measures based on investigation findings and established public health guidance.
• Documents of investigation activities, findings, and outcomes in accordance with applicable reporting requirements and established procedures.

Disease Surveillance and Data Analysis

• Designs, implements, and maintains disease surveillance activities to monitor disease occurrence, identify trends, and support timely public health responses.
• Collects, organizes, validates, analyzes, and interprets epidemiologic and statistical data.
• Identifies patterns, trends, and potential public health concerns through the review and analysis of surveillance and investigation data.
• Prepares epidemiologic reports, summaries, data presentations, and other materials to communicate findings and support public health decision-making.
• Maintains accurate and timely records, databases, and surveillance documentation.

Consultation, Training, and Technical Assistance

• Provides consultation and technical assistance to internal departments and external partners, including school districts, regarding disease investigations, surveillance procedures, disease prevention, and control measures.
• Communicates investigation findings, surveillance information, and public health recommendations to relevant stakeholders.
• Provides training and guidance to staff and community partners on epidemiologic practices, reporting requirements, and disease control procedures.
• Collaborates with public health professionals and community partners to support coordinated responses to disease-related concerns.

Program Development and Operational Support

• Assists with the development, review, and implementation of policies, procedures, protocols, and guidance for new and existing disease control programs.
• Supports the evaluation and improvement of epidemiologic surveillance and disease control activities.
• Participate in meetings, program initiatives, and other activities related to epidemiology and public health operations.
• Performs additional duties in support of section operations as assigned.

Collaboration, Communication, and Professional Practice

• Collaborates with internal teams, healthcare providers, school districts, community organizations, and other public health partners to support disease surveillance and control efforts.
• Communicates technical and scientific information clearly and accurately to audiences with varying levels of epidemiologic knowledge.
• Maintains confidentiality and handles public health information in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and departmental policies.
• Follows established procedures, documentation standards, and applicable public health reporting requirements.
• Demonstrates professionalism, sound judgment, and attention to detail when handling sensitive disease investigation information.

Behavioral Competencies

• Analytical Thinking: Reviews epidemiologic information, identifies patterns, and interprets data to support disease investigation and control.
• Scientific Communication: Presents findings and recommendations clearly through written reports, verbal briefings, and technical consultation.
• Attention to Detail: Maintains accurate investigation records, surveillance data, and required documentation.
• Problem-Solving: Identifies potential disease control concerns and supports appropriate responses based on available evidence and established protocols.
• Collaboration: Works effectively with multidisciplinary teams and external partners.
• Organization and Time Management: Prioritizes investigations, surveillance activities, reporting deadlines, and competing assignments.
• Adaptability: Responds to changing public health priorities and emerging disease-related concerns.

A master's degree in public health or a closely related field from an accredited college or university; 

OR

A bachelor's degree in any field from an accredited college or university and two years of experience performing epidemiologic work or work in a closely related field.

In addition to meeting the minimum qualifications, preference will be given to applicants with experience demonstrating competence in:

• Conducting case interviews, disease investigations, and contact tracing activities.
• Performing public health surveillance and monitoring disease trends.
• Collecting, analyzing, and interpreting epidemiologic and statistical data.
• Preparing scientific reports, summaries, presentations, and other technical communications.
• Implementing disease prevention and control measures based on investigation findings.
• Communicating scientific and public health information to internal and external stakeholders.
• Providing technical assistance, consultation, or training related to epidemiology and disease control.
• Collaborating with healthcare providers, school districts, community partners, and multidisciplinary public health teams.

Working Environment

Work is performed in an office, clinical, community, and/or field setting, depending on program needs. The position may require interaction with individuals affected by communicable diseases, healthcare providers, school personnel, and other community partners. Work may involve exposure to sensitive public health information and time-sensitive disease investigation activities.

Physical Requirements

The position may require prolonged computer use, reviewing and analyzing data, preparing reports, communicating by telephone or electronic means, and participating in meetings. Depending on assignment, local travel to public health facilities, community sites, or partner locations may be required.

Other Duties

NOTE: Employment with DeKalb Public Health is not complete or official until applicants meet all pre-employment requirements. If this position requires a college degree and you are selected for an interview, you will be required to submit official transcripts to the Human Resources Department prior to any official offer of employment.

Not every applicant will receive an interview and only those selected for an interview will be notified. We have the right to close any position at any time.

Fingerprint Criminal Records Investigation Is Required

ALL APPLICANTS MUST APPLY FOR THIS POSITION & COMPLETE APPLICATION IN: ”Career Opportunities” at www.dph.georgia.gov

If you require accommodations under the American Disability Act (ADA), email request by the closing date of this announcement to: Brittany.leslie@dph.ga.gov

 DEKALB PUBLIC HEALTH IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.