Public Health Investigator

Applications accepted from: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED

Division: Public Health Services Section: Bureau of Tuberculosis Location: 8000 N. Studium Dr., 6th floor, Houston, TX. 77054 Workday & Hours: Monday – Friday / Flexible *SUBJECT TO CHANGE

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS The Houston Health Department is seeking a highly skilled, self-motivated professional to serve as a Public Health Investigator within the Bureau of Tuberculosis Control. This role involves investigation of tuberculosis (TB) and TB infection (TBI), including contact tracing, treatment adherence monitoring, and care coordination to support communicable disease control. Essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:

• Conducts field visits for contact investigations, including performing QuantiFERON-TB Gold (QFT) tests and/or administering and interpreting TB skin tests in accordance with established protocols.
• Coordinates and schedules medical evaluations for identified contacts and follows up on results with healthcare providers.
• Provides Directly Observed Therapy (DOT) / Video DOT(VDOT) for TB and TBI patients, including medication delivery, sputum specimen collection, and visual acuity assessments in accordance with program guidelines.
• Locates, counsels, and re-engages non-adherent TB patients to ensure return to medical supervision, including follow-up with immigrant and refugee populations according to Bureau guidelines.
• Accurately documents all investigative and treatment activities in field and electronic records, including medication administration, toxicity monitoring, sputum collection, control orders, mileage, and itineraries.
• Immediately reports issues, barriers, or concerns to supervisory staff and maintains ongoing communication to resolve patient care challenges.
• Collaborates with healthcare providers, clinics, and laboratories to facilitate timely diagnosis, treatment, and continuity of TB care.
• Participates in patient case conferences and assists supervisory staff with case management planning.
• Completes special assignments and provides services to community and governmental agencies, including correctional facilities, as assigned.
• Participates in departmental and bureau-wide public health initiatives to promote disease prevention and community health.
• Travels between work sites using a personal or City-issued vehicle as required. Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license in compliance with City of Houston Administrative Policy (A.P.) 2-2.

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

WORK ENVIRONMENT: There are occasional exposures to significant levels of heat, cold, moisture and air pollution. The position may involve infrequent exposure to chemical substances and physical trauma of a minor nature such as cuts, bruises and minor burns.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS Requires a high school diploma or a GED.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS One year of experience with public contact in the social service or public health field or in a high-volume customer service environment are required.

SUBSTITUTION: An Associate’s degree may be substituted for the required experience.

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.• Fluent in Spanish is preferred

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

SAFETY IMPACT POSITION YES If yes, this position may subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.

SALARY INFORMATION GENERAL FUNDS 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: 12

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 have questions, need special services or accommodations, call (832) 393-4888. (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 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.