About This Position

Job Description:

Public Health Program Specialist III

Purpose: 

Under limited supervision, lead program specific, outreach and/or investigation activities of communicable diseases.

Duties, Functions and Responsibilities: 

Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.

• Investigate, locate, interview, and link out of care HIV positive individuals to appropriate medical care and other services.

• Coordinate aspects of investigations with other agencies/personnel.

• Train and monitor less experienced personnel in the conducting of an investigation.

• Counsel individuals on prevention of sexually transmitted diseases e.g. venereal diseases, AIDS, etc.

• Follow-up with clients to insure they are receiving proper care.

• Refer citizens to appropriate agency or program.

• Answer citizen questions & provide assistance.

• Conduct investigations on the origin, nature, etc. of epidemiological diseases.

• Perform phlebotomy and specimen collection

• Counsel physicians, laboratories, clinics, etc. about disease reporting requirements.

• Research/compile data/information and submit written reports.

• Assist in statistical and data analysis to identify health inequities and disparities.

• Provide quality assurance (QA) duties as assigned by supervisor, and as needed.

• Some positions may require employee to meet patients at home, work or elsewhere to perform testing or conducting interviews, as needed.

Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised: 

Provides leadership, work assignments, evaluation, training, and guidance to others.  May substitute in supervisor’s absence.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.

• Knowledge of general public health programs, specifically those related to communicable disease.

• Knowledge of the principles of communicable disease spread and prevention.

• Knowledge of laws and regulations concerning communicable disease control.

• Skill in prioritizing tasks.

• Skill in oral and written communications, especially interviewing techniques.

• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with City employees and the public.

• Skill in recording data from interviews and investigations accurately.

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university plus two (2) years of experience in public health outreach/investigation or related field, one (1) year of which must have been working directly as an HIV/STD Disease Intervention Specialist.

• Related experience may substitute for required education with a maximum substitution of four (4) years.

Licenses and Certifications Required: 

Valid Texas Class C Driver’s License at time of hire and maintain during employment, as required by position

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in HIV/STD investigation as a Disease Intervention Specialist (DIS).

• Previous experience in working with diverse populations such as LGBTQI, MSM, unhoused, etc

• Experience in conducting quality assurance activities. 

Notes to Candidate:

Position Overview:

• This position will conduct quality assurance reviews of public health investigations, interviews, documentation, and case management activities to ensure compliance with program, local, and DSHS guidelines.

• Develop, coordinate, and deliver training for new and existing staff in clinic operations, office procedures, field investigations, documentation standards, and program protocols.

• Conduct routine audits of interviews, field records, documentation, and case closures to ensure compliance with local and state requirements.

• Support provider outreach and education efforts regarding DSHS reporting requirements, treatment guidelines, and public health follow-up processes.

• Conduct field activities and investigations as needed to support program operations, address complex cases, and maintain proficiency in field-based public health practices.

• Provide support and guidance to staff conducting re-linkage and engagement to medical care activities for those living with HIV. 

• Track and report on program performance measures, identifying opportunities for improvement and collaborating with leadership to implement corrective actions.

• Provide coaching and constructive feedback to staff based on quality assurance findings, performance trends, and observed field or office activities.

• Maintain required certifications and training, including phlebotomy, HIPAA compliance, CPR/First Aid, defensive driving, monthly security training, and PHEP and FEMA training requirements.

Austin Public Health

This position supports Austin Public Health’s Mission and Core Purpose identified in the Austin Public Health Strategic Plan. Departmental Competencies related to the position can be found on Austin Public Health’s website.

Important Posting Information:

• This job posting will close at 11:59 PM the day before the Job Posting Close Date listed.

• This posting is only required to stay open for 7 days and may close any time thereafter.

• We recommend saving or printing a copy of the job posting for your records. Closed posting cannot be viewed in Workday.

Application Submission:

• A complete City of Austin employment application is required to apply. Please provide dates (month and year) for each job history entry. While a resume may be required, it will not substitute for a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

• An assessment(s) may be administered as part of the interview process.

Electronic Notification to Applications:

Applicants will be notified via e-mail of important information regarding application status. Please ensure your email address and contact information is current and correct.

Salary and Benefits:

Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications. This position comes with a comprehensive benefits package consisting of medical and dental coverage, paid sick, vacation, and personal time, and a retirement plan.

• Salary Range is $24.40 - $28.42

• This position comes with a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical and dental coverage, paid sick leave, vacation and personal time, and a retirement plan.

Physical Work Location:

RBJ Health Center, 15 Waller St, Austin, TX 78702 

Hours: 

Monday – Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Hours may vary due to operational needs. An alternative schedule and remote work/telework options are available, but this position requires a minimum of 40% per week in-office standard.

Evenings and weekends may be required on occasion, especially during an emergency response. **

Immunization Requirement:

Austin Public Health employees must comply with the department’s immunization policy.

Travel:

This position may require travel to multiple work locations.

Tobacco-free Workplace:

The City of Austin is a tobacco-free workplace. Use of tobacco products and/or e-cigarettes is not permitted on any City of Austin worksite- including construction sites, parking lots, garages, or in personal vehicles parked on the premises.

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JOIN THE CITY OF AUSTIN TEAM

At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer—we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. As we strive to fulfill our commitment as public servants, it is important that we ground our efforts in a set of guiding principles – Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity – that anchor our delivery of services that significantly impact the lives of Austinites. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee.

What Makes the City of Austin Special?

• Make a Difference: Join a team driving meaningful change in one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation.

• Value and Innovation: Work in an environment where employees are valued, and innovation thrives.

• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.

• Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.

• Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.

• Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.

• Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.

• Modern Workspaces: Work in innovative and sustainable environments that foster collaboration and inspiration.

By joining us, you become part of a community that values its people and is committed to making Austin the most thriving and resilient city in the country.

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EEO Statement for City of Austin:

The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual's AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk.

City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call (512) 974-3210 or Texas Relay by dialing 7-1-1.