OPS Biological Scientist II - 64950220

Ops Biological Scientist II

The Biological Scientist II is an epidemiology position responsible for detecting, controlling, and preventing sexually transmitted diseases (STD) in Palm Beach County. This position may work in the field, office, clinical setting and visit jails. Provides direct disease intervention and public health awareness activities including but not limited to partner services, field investigations, screening, counseling, and referral services of individuals infected, exposed to or at-risk of infection from Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis, HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis or other biological agents. This position is cross trained in STD/Hepatitis surveillance and field operations. Perform phlebotomy routinely and conduct confidential field investigations.

Responsible for coordinating Electronic Reporting (ELR) cases and Electronic Faxes relating to gonorrhea chlamydia, syphilis, and HIV. Initiates field records to follow up on public and private reported cases of STDs and ensures positive tests for diseases are entered into the system (STARS). Ensures that notifiable STDs are reported by healthcare providers and laboratories in accordance with Florida statutes. Communicates and visits with providers, hospitals, laboratories, and other health care facilities to obtain demographic, laboratory, clinical or other specific information; arrange medical evaluations and treatments for a client; and/or provide information on current reporting / treatment guidelines for communicable diseases. Records search various databases for verification and investigation including the Electronic Health Record (EHR) within HMS. Analyzes cases and assigns promptly for field investigation.

Participates in outreaches to provide education, screening, and referral services to those who have not been identified of being infected but are at high risk of having or acquiring these infections. Provides oral and written presentations to healthcare workers, clients, and the community. Provides assistance not considered part of routine duties including but not limited to: Epidemiological assistance to other County Health Department's or program areas, public health awareness and emergency response situations. Responds to special requests and analysis of STD data. Creates and performs statistical narrative reports as needed. Maintains electronic files, laboratories and specialized records for STD and further contact investigation or follow up. The position is cross trained in STD/Hepatitis surveillance and field operations. Incumbent may be required to work before, during and/or beyond normal work hours or days in the event of an emergency. Emergency duty required of the incumbent includes working in special needs shelters, or performing other emergency duties including, but not limited to, responses to or threats involving any disaster or threat of disaster, man-made or natural.

The Florida Department of Health Mission, Vision, and Values: Mission: To protect, promote & improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county & community efforts. Vision: To be the Healthiest State in the Nation. Values: Innovation: We search for creative solutions and manage resources wisely. Collaboration: We use teamwork to achieve common goals & solve problems. Accountability: We perform with integrity & respect. Responsiveness: We achieve our mission by serving our customers & engaging our partners. Excellence: We promote quality outcomes through learning & continuous performance improvement.

Location: Riviera Beach, FL, US, 33404 Nearest Major Market: Palm Beach Nearest Secondary Market: Miami