PUBLIC HEALTH INVESTIGATOR SPECIALIST

Applications Accepted From: All Persons Interested

Division: Public Health Services Section: Bureau of Tuberculosis Control Location: 8000 N. Stadium Dr., Houston, TX 77054 Workdays & Hours: Monday - Friday / Flexible* *Subject to change

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Performs disease intervention activities relating to the control of communicable disease among residents of the city. Leads, coordinates, and facilitates comprehensive quality administration of QuantiFERON Gold Test (QFT) (in congregate settings/other appropriate venues). Collects specimen for Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) and refers clients for 3HP regimen.
• Interviews and re-interviews of all new reported tuberculosis (TB) cases/ suspects to identify contacts with emphasis on high priority contacts (children less than 5 years old and immunosuppressed). Makes field visits for contact investigation follow up including administering QFT/TB skin test according to guidelines. Schedules of appointments for contacts needing MD evaluation.
• Delivers and supervises patients taking medication for the treatment of TB and TB Infection (TBI), including sputum collection, visual acuity according to guidelines. Immediately documents doses delivered and supervised after each field visit, toxicity checks, sputum collection forms, control order forms, mileage reports, itineraries and all pertinent information correctly in the field records.
• Reports problems immediately by telephone and follows up with supervisor. Communicates with providers to facilitate and expedite TB patient care. Schedules clinic appointments, obtains medical evaluation results, and follows up with providers as needed. Meets with supervisor for patient case conferences.
• Assists Public Health Investigator (PHI) Supervisor in the training of new PHI and other personnel involved in disease intervention activities relating to the Communicable Disease Control Program. Assists PHI Supervisor in managing uncooperative patients.
• Accepts special assignments to provide services to community and governmental agencies, including the Harris County Jail system. Participates in the Department’s and/or Bureau’s Initiatives as activated or assigned to promote public health (AIM, Project Saving Smiles, Project One Sight, HIP-HOP, etc.)

PHYSICAL EFFORT: The position is physically comfortable, the individual has discretion about walking, standing, etc.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: There are no major sources of discomfort, i.e., essentially normal office environment with acceptable lighting, temperature and air conditions.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS Requires a Bachelor's degree in Social Science, Physical Science, Public Health or a closely related field.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS Three years of experience in the public health field are required.

SUBSTITUTION: Pertinent professional experience in the public health field may be substituted for the above educational requirement on a year-for-year basis.

LICENSE REQUIREMENTS Requires a valid Texas driver's license and compliance with the City of Houston's policy on driving.Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6.

• Are able to draw blood utilizing standard phlebotomy practices
• Are willing to travel using own personal vehicle and receive reimbursement
• Have experience building and developing collaborative relationships within all levels of the organization, clients and community partners

SELECTION/SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED None. However, the Department may administer a skills assessment test.

SAFETY IMPACT POSITION: YES If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if candidate is promoted into this position, he/she must pass an assigned drug test.

SALARY INFORMATION GENERAL FUNDED POSITION Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate's qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.

Pay Grade 20

APPLICATION PROCEDURES Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during active posting period. Applications must be submitted online at: www.houstontx.gov.

To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfm or call 832-395-8357.

If you need special services or accommodations, 832-393-4882 (TTY 7-1-1).

If you need login assistance or technical support call 855-524-5627.

Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process.

All new and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information provided.

EOE Equal Opportunity Employer The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.