HEALTH PROGRAM SPECIALIST

HEALTH PROGRAM SPECIALIST

Date: Sep 3, 2026

Req ID: 58733

Location:

Van Buren, AR, US, 72956

Category: AR DEPT OF HUMAN SERVICES

Anticipated Starting Salary: $52,137.07

Position Number: 22104141

County: Crawford

Posting End Date: September 15, 2026

Each Health Program Specialist (Adult Protective Services Worker) carries a caseload of approximately 300 cases and covers multi-county territory with few other positions nearby. This position is responsible for both investigating complaints of maltreatment and serving as custodian for impaired or endangered adults, law institutions, etc. Because of the location and number counties this position covers it is extremely difficult to get qualified applicants to apply.

Special Work Condition/Preferences: In-state Travel Required. Required to perform occasional on-call duties during the week and on weekends. Three years’ experience with statutes, policy, or procedures related to adult or child welfare; two years’ experience in a discipline which requires using reasoning skills and objective analysis of facts; ability to document complex situations in a comprehensive and legible manner; experience working with developmentally disabled or geriatric populations; demonstrates ability to plan and organize work and time around deadlines. At least two years’ experience using Microsoft Office applications. Must have a valid driver’s license, access to personal vehicle, and a clean driving record.

The Department of Human Services is a place for people passionate about serving others and changing lives for the better. We care for Arkansans of all ages and ensure places like child care centers and nursing homes are safe. We are the safety net for the most vulnerable Arkansans. Whether you answer the phones, take applications, protect children, or help care for residents or patients at one of our facilities, you make a difference by working at DHS. Plus, working for the State has great perks, including a pension, maternity leave, paid state holidays, and much more. At DHS, we take care of our employees so you can help care for others.

Position Information

Job Series:Health Specialties

Classification:Health Program Specialist – Career Path

Class Code:PHS07P

Pay Grade:SGS06

Salary Range:$52,137 - $77,163

Job Summary

The Health Program Specialist is responsible for the development, coordination, implementation, and monitoring of public health programs designed to address specific health issues or populations across Arkansas. This position supports state efforts to improve community health through evidence-based program strategies, stakeholder engagement, and interagency collaboration.

Primary Responsibilities

Plan, develop, and coordinate public health programs to address key health concerns such as chronic disease prevention, maternal and child health, environmental health, infectious disease control, injury prevention, or health promotion. Evaluate program effectiveness using health data, performance metrics, and community feedback; adjust goals and strategies as needed to improve outcomes. Develop educational materials, outreach tools, and technical guidance for community partners, stakeholders, and the public. Prepare reports, grant applications, and program summaries in accordance with agency, state, and federal requirements. Collaborate with internal departments, local health units, schools, nonprofits, and other governmental agencies to coordinate service delivery and leverage resources. Maintain accurate, organized records of program activities, expenditures, outcomes, and evaluations. Conduct community outreach and represent the agency at public events, health fairs, advisory meetings, or legislative briefings as needed. Ensure that all program activities are conducted in compliance with public health laws, grant conditions, and departmental policy. Respond to inquiries from the public or partners regarding program information and resources.

Knowledge and Skills

Strong understanding of public health principles, population health, and program development cycles. Ability to analyze and interpret health data, epidemiological reports, and demographic trends. Proficient in preparing clear and accurate program reports, policy documents, and grant submissions. Experience working with data systems, spreadsheets, and digital tools (e.g., Microsoft Excel, SharePoint, or program-specific software). Effective written and verbal communication skills with the ability to tailor messaging for professional, public, and diverse audiences.

Minimum Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree in public health, health science, social work, education, public administration, or a closely related field is required.

Licensure/Certifications

N/A OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.

Nearest Major Market:Fort Smith