Community Engagement Specialist - 61008304

Careers at DPH: Work that makes a difference! Embracing Service, Inspiring Innovation, Promoting Teamwork, Pursuing Excellence, and Advancing Equity Under direct supervision of the Senior Health Educator (Community Engagement Manager), the health education specialist: (1) assures the coordination of community health assessments and development of community health improvement plans/activities in the assigned counties; (2) plans and implements community- based Chronic Disease Risk Reduction interventions which address the health risk factors of physical inactivity, poor nutrition, tobacco use, obesity, cancer, diabetes , arthritis and other related chronic diseases; and (3) supports health behavior change at the individual, community, institutional and public policy levels in assigned counties.

• Provides leadership in the assessment of state regional, county health data, community resources and processes to determine at-risk populations and risk factors to be addressed. Facilitates the development of community health assessments and community planning to identify strategic issues and priority health problems.

• Implements evidenced-based policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) change strategies directed toward community health improvement. Provides consultation, and technical assistance to health department staff, community organizations, health care systems, programs and local coalitions/task forces addressing population health and chronic disease risk reduction for at-risk populations.

• Establishes and maintains strong working relationships with stakeholders, including other programs, government agencies, and non-governmental lay and professional groups to build support for chronic disease prevention and control. Uses effective community engagement strategies to facilitate coordination/collaboration and address chronic disease issues. Leverage resources to impact prevention and create partnerships.

• Evaluates the implementation and effectiveness of programmatic and community-based interventions through the collection/analysis of process and outcome variables. Maintains and submits required reports to region leadership and program management as required in a timely manner.

• Participates in required state, regional and program meetings/courses/trainings. Participates in training to improve health education skills, maintains or develops content specific proficiency, and keeps abreast of changes in program standards, policies, and procedures including CHES/MCHES credentialing. State Minimum Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in health education, health promotion, or a closely related field such as psychology, biology, sociology, education, or physical education and health education experience. Some positions require a valid driver's license.

Any equivalent combination of education and/or experience that demonstrates the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered in meeting the minimum qualifications, subject to approval by the DPH Chief Human Resources Officer, or their delegate.

Applicants indicating college credit or degree(s) on the application may upload an unofficial copy of the transcript as an attachment to the application. Please note that the agency will require an official, certified copy of the transcript or diploma prior to hiring. Institutions of Higher Learning must be recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) or Master Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES) through the National Commission of Health Education Credentialing, Inc. or CHES/MCHES-eligible.

EEO: The Department of Public Health is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions including, but not limited, to lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, or genetic information. REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION: Applicants needing accommodation for medical reasons or a sincerely held religious belief may submit a request for accommodation. A reasonable accommodation may be granted if it doesn't impose an undue hardship or pose a direct threat to the health and safety of others. STATE DISASTER PLAN: In accordance with the State's Disaster Plan, which includes hazardous weather, Department of Public Health employees may be required to work in times of an emergency or disaster. DRIVING RECORD: If this position requires the applicant to possess a valid driver's license to operate a state vehicle or personal vehicle, any applicant being considered in the final stages of selection for the position will be required to provide a certified copy of a 10-year driving record.

The South Carolina Department of Public Health offers an exceptional benefits package for FTE positions that includes:

• 15 days Annual (Vacation) Leave per year
• 15 days Sick Leave per year
• 13 Paid Holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• Health, dental, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance for employees, spouse, and children. Click here for additional information.
• S.C. Deferred Compensation Program available (S.C. Deferred Compensation)
• Retirement benefit choices *• State Retirement Plan (SCRS)
• State Optional Retirement Program (State ORP)

*Enrollment in one of the listed plans is required for all FTE employees; please refer to the contribution section of hyperlinked retirement sites for the current contribution rate of gross pay. HYBRID WORK: The option to work partially remote or adjusted work hours may be available after 12 months of employment for approved positions.