OPS BIOLOGICAL SCIENTIST IV

OPS BIOLOGICAL SCIENTIST IV - 64952467

Your specific responsibilities include: Perform investigation, data entry, and follow-up for the prevention and control of communicable diseases including reportable diseases, foodborne and waterborne illnesses, general infectious diseases, and influenza (seasonal and pandemic). Perform daily surveillance, data analysis, and management using ESSENCE, Merlin data systems, Epi Gateway, and other databases as needed. Follow up on all Electronic Laboratory Reports (ELR) and faxed reports as assigned to include but not limited to collecting basic demographics and clinical information on suspected cases Confirm diagnosis and determine probable source of infection, mode of transmission, extent of spread. Recommend appropriate control measures. Coordinate therapeutic or prophylactic treatment as needed. Collect and transmit appropriate laboratory specimens for diagnostic study. Monitor clients and susceptible clients during potentially infectious period or period of probable onset for proper follow-up on control measures. Maintains adequate records of essential information relevant to the communicable disease investigation. Provides communicable disease alerts as necessary to contain the spread of communicable diseases. Collaborates with infection control practitioners in hospitals, nursing homes, and other facilities for the identification, investigation, and control of infectious diseases. Prepares surveillance reports, data summaries, and other written documentation for publication, presentation, or dissemination. Create graphs and charts to illustrate data. Conduct studies and investigations related to outbreaks of public health significance. This position is expected to provide technical expertise to residents, visitors and professional level leaders within the community on a regular basis.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge of methods of data collection and analysis Knowledge of public health policies and public health laws to include but not limited to information security and HIPAA. Skilled in computer software programs to facilitate job duties such as Microsoft Office Suite, Epi Info, SAS and/or SPSS. Skilled in extracting and preparing data and information into logical format for presentation in reports, documents, and other written materials that suit the needs of a variety of users. Ability to access and extract information from multiple databases. Ability to design and conduct evaluation activities and statistical surveys. Ability to plan, organize and coordinate work assignments and manage multiple projects. Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships both internally and in the community. Ability to work independently using critical thinking and logic. Ability to use problem solving techniques.

Qualifications: Minimum • Valid Driver's license and access to reliable transportation. Preferred Bachelors Degree Currently pursuing an MPH or MSPH One (1) year of experience with epidemiology, communicable disease programs, and/or public health surveillance Experience reviewing laboratory results or medical records Experience with public speaking and/or education outreach activities

Where You Will Work: Department of Health in Pinellas County 205 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

The Benefits of Working for the State of Florida: Working for the State of Florida is more than a paycheck. As an OPS employee, the benefits below are available: State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan (mandatory) Participation in state group insurance (upon meeting eligibility requirements. Consult with People First and/or the serving HR office) Workers' Compensation (mandatory, if needed) Reemployment Assistance (Unemployment Compensation) (mandatory, if needed) Deferred Compensation (voluntary) Employee Assistance Program (voluntary) And more! For a more complete list of benefits, including monthly costs, visit

The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace. Applicants who do not meet the requirement to communicate effectively, orally and in writing, in English will not be considered.