Vector Surveillance Technician

If you’re looking to be a part of a collaborative environment where your skills can make an impact, explore our current opportunities in creating a better future for public health. About Harris County Public Health Harris County Public Health (HCPH) includes a network of more than 1,100 public health professionals working together to improve health outcomes for the third most populous county in the United States. HCPH provides a multitude of services such as medical and dental services, community programming, and health education for the approximately 2.3 million people in unincorporated Harris County. Through its core values of innovation, engagement, and health equity, HCPH strives to bring meaningful solutions to public health issues while keeping Harris County healthy and vibrant. Our Values Transparency - We share information openly and honestly so that staff, partners, and the community understand our actions and the reasons behind them. Integrity - Our actions reflect strong ethical principles, ensuring we remain trustworthy, accountable, and consistent with our mission. Respect - We foster a supportive environment by valuing diverse perspectives, listening intentionally, and treating people with dignity in every interaction. Impact - We focus our efforts on activities that improve health, reduce disparities, and create meaningful, measurable outcomes for the communities we serve. Collaboration - We actively partner across teams, disciplines, organizations, and communities to align our efforts toward common goals. Position Overview Under the supervision of the Vector Surveillance Supervisor, the Vector Surveillance Technician supports county-wide arthropod surveillance activities and is responsible for collecting, identifying, and submitting arthropod field samples for pathogen testing. This role requires the ability to respond to public concerns in real time and to communicate monitoring and prevention strategies for non-mosquito vector populations. Duties & Responsibilities Sets and retrieves arthropod trapping devices and deploys various other collection methods in different habitats to collect arthropod specimens. Sorts and identifies arthropod samples and prepares samples for testing as required. Performs environmental surveys to identify appropriate habitats, and seek permission as needed from public and private properties for use of property. Maintains accurate records in database systems and assists with testing for vector-borne diseases in arthropod populations using various laboratory techniques. Assist in the development, preparation, use, and maintenance of field surveillance material and equipment. Conducts presentations and shares educational materials to Harris County residents and other entities as required. Education Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Sciences with a concentration in Entomology, Ecology, or a Related Field but may substitute for High School Diploma or GED with 2 years of related work experience in mosquito control operations, field collection, or morphological identification. Certifications / Licenses Valid Texas Driver's License (upon hire) and a good driving record required. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Basic skills using Microsoft Office Suite. Knowledge of arthropod biology and habitats, morphological identification, integrated vector management, and public health. Ability to troubleshoot issues and recommend appropriate solutions. Ability to plan, organize and execute tasks effectively and efficiently. Ability to engage well with a variety of personalities and handle stress well. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Ability to develop, implement, improve, and learn new techniques pertinent to field/lab operations. Must have good organizational skills and excellent communication skills to coordinate information to appropriate personnel. Core Competencies Data Analytics and Assessment Skills: Ability to use data to analyze community health needs and support decisions that improve community health outcomes. Communication Skills: This competency focuses on using clear and effective communication to engage audiences, address misinformation, and build trust, supporting informed decisions and stronger public health outcomes. Health Advancement Skills: This competency focuses on applying principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion to public health, addressing systemic barriers, and promoting fair access to resources for healthier communities. Community Partnership Skills: This competency focuses on collaborating with communities to address the systems and policies affecting health, fostering engagement, shared ownership, and sustainable improvements in well-being. Public Health Science Skills: This competency focuses on using public health science and evidence-based approaches to develop and improve policies and programs, ensuring effective delivery of the 10 Essential Public Health Services. NOTE Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. 'See Resume' will not be accepted for qualifications. Position Type and Typical Hours of Work This is a Regular | Full-Time position. 40 hours per week. Must be able to work nights, weekends and holidays as required to accomplish the mission of MVCD. Work Environment Office/Laboratory and Field environment. County vehicles are operated during field activities. Physical Demands Must be able to lift 70 lbs. Must be in good physical health, able to tolerate high heat and humidity for extended periods of time outdoors while working in a variety of urban and natural environments. Must be able to work nights, weekends and holidays as required to accomplish the mission of MVCD. Work Location Harris County Public Health: Mosquito & Vector Control Division - 3330 Old Spanish Trail, Houston, Texas 77021. Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards. Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. If you need special services or accommodations, please call View phone number on click.appcast.io or email View email address on click.appcast.io. Due to a high volume of applications, positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department. #J-18808-Ljbffr Harris County