OPS Biological Scientist III - 64858590

OPS BIOLOGICAL SCIENTIST III - 64858590

This is an advanced professional position in a county wide disease prevention program. The position requires utilization of complex epidemiological analytic techniques and involves collection of information regarding individual case reports, as well as participation in outbreak investigations. More specifically, the position would include the following:

Conducting complex research studies for surveillance of disease and disease syndromes (of individuals and population outbreaks) to include diseases associated with food, water, and those suspected of being due to a weapon of mass destruction biological agents. This process would include interviewing individuals and writing up these reports so they can be submitted to the electronic database. This may also entail questionnaire and interview design. Will also advise patients regarding their disease and how to prevent future occurrence (if the disease can recur).

Initiate case investigations for reported diseases on the direction of surveillance and investigation supervisors during specified time intervals. This may include appropriate and targeted field investigations and notification of managers for appropriate action. The position involves looking at the data entered and writing reports. Also, provide oral and written presentations to both health department employees and the community.

Investigate non-perinatal hepatitis cases and specialized research projects and give recommendations.

Communications – Participate in teleconferences, Epicom, and various meetings where regional and state information is shared. Will visit and consult with community health care providers giving information to the current reporting requirements for communicable disease.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

1. A valid driver's license, free of major infractions and access to an automobile to be utilized for work purposes.
2. Currently working or finished a master's degree in public health.
3. Experience investigating multiple infectious diseases.
4. Experience conducting appropriate and targeted field investigations regarding infectious diseases.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Bilingual, fluent in English/Haitian Creole, or fluent in English/Spanish.
2. Experience in Public Health research.
3. Experience in food handling, safety, protocols, and food inspections.
4. Experience in conducting surveillance including ESSENCE, Influenza Like Illness surveillance (ILI), CDC's Epidemic Information Exchange (Epi-X) or Vital Statistics surveillance.
5. Experience working with statistical software (SAS, SPSS, Epi Info, Access, Excel).
6. Experience working with hepatitis cases.

The successful candidate will be required to complete the Form I-9 and that information will be verified using the E-Verify system. E-Verify is operated by the Department of Homeland Security in partnership with the Social Security Administration to verify employment eligibility.

Incumbents may be required to perform emergency duty before, during, and/or beyond normal work hours or days.

All Florida Department of Health positions require the incumbent to be able to learn and communicate effectively, orally and in writing, in English. Applicants who do not meet this requirement will not be considered.

The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center (1-877-562-7287). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation.

The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act.