Austin, Texas: Epidemiologist I, HIV/STD Epidemiology and Surveillance Branch, Texas Dept of State Health Services

Job Title: Epidemiologist I
Job Number:
Organization: Texas Dept of State Health Services
Posted: 8/22/2008
Type: Full-Time
Classification: Epidemiology
Industry: State Government
Number of Openings: 1
Location: Austin, TX USA
Compensation: $43,200 - $49,200

Position Description: Under the direction of the Epidemiology and Surveillance Group Manager/HIV Surveillance Coordinator, performs advanced level epidemiological work within the HIV/STD Epidemiology and Surveillance Branch. Performs statistical analyses using advanced statistical software, interprets results, and writes articles, reports and sections of grant proposals related to HIV/AIDS epidemiology. Uses SAS, Access, HARS, STD*MIS and various other software applications to analyze data. Monitors the quality of the HARS database and contributes to epidemiologic reports disseminated to the Unit and DSHS staff, the public, and the public health and medical communities.

Essential Job Functions: EJF 1: Monitors the quality of the data HARS data. Conducts analyses using advanced statistical software to evaluate the quality of the HARS data at the DSHS Central Office and each of the HARS sites on a monthly basis. Responsible for designing analysis plans and interpreting data. Produces reports used by the Central Office and the HARS sites to resolve data quality issues and to reconcile duplicates in the HARS database. Works with the CDC to correct data errors in the HARS database. Particpates in site reviews of HIV reporting entities to assess performance of the site.(40%) EJF 2: Creates HIV/STD epidemiologic reports, and writes HIV/AIDS epidemiologic sections of DSHS-published quarterly and annual reports, special reports, and newsletters. Interprets results of epidemiologic and statistical analyses. Proposes topics for manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals and collaborates with other staff to write manuscripts. Presents HIV/STD-related epidemiologic findings at conferences, special meetings, and scientific society and group meetings. (20%) EFJ 3: Utilizes appropriate epidemiologic and statistical methods in data analysis using SAS, HARS, PRODAS, STD*MIS, Access and various other databases, graphics, mapping, spreadsheet, and word processing applications. Develops databases as needed for data collection used for special projects and auxilliary needs beyond the HARS surveillance system. Designs, oversees and participates in the production of summay data for epidemiologic and statistical updates of HIV/STD-related data intended for public release. (20%) EFJ 4: Applies epidemiology principles and methods to provide the epidemiologic component of multiple grant proposals and progress reports. For progress reports, conducts analyses to describe how HIV/AIDS surveillance objectives have been met. (10%) EFJ 5: Contributes to the development of training materials for training HARS field staff. (5%) EFJ 6: Other HIV/AIDS/STD epidemiologic duties as assigned (5%)

Qualifications: Three years of experience in a public health agency; a year of public health education may substitute for a year of experience. MPH preferred: Masters level degree may be acceptable in behavioral science, anthropology, statistics or health research field Experience with SAS, Microsoft Access and Excel.

Knowledge Skills Abilities: Knowledge of epidemiology principles and methods and related biostatistics, principles of surveillance data evaluation, research methods and design, and principles of descriptive and analytical statistics. Strong verbal and written communication skills, and knowledge of scientific, technical, and grant writing. Position requires knowledge of the principles of disease surveillance and infectious diseases. Possess the ability to give presentations to professional and lay groups. Knowledge of methods to secure data and maintain confidentiality. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Programs, including Word, Excel and Access for data management and analysis, Powerpoint for graphic presentations, and SAS for data analysis. Ability to work independently and possess strong interpersonal skills. Effective communicator with strong time management and organizational skills.

Organization Description:

Closing Date: 9/20/2008

Desired Starting Date:

Contact Name: Tammy Sajak,
Web Address: https://rm.accesshr.hhsc.state.tx.us/ENG/CareerPortal/Job_Profile.cfm?szOrderID=89517

How to Apply: For application instructions see the official posting at the website above.

Additional Information: This will be a perpetual posting until the position is filled.

Web Site Delete Date: 9/21/2008