Public Health Representative 2

Public Health Representative 2

Work Location: On-site 1301 Riverfront Pkwy, Suite 209 Chattanooga, TN 37402

Work Schedule: MondayFriday | 7.5 hours per day Shift: 8:00 AM 5:00 PM (EST) Rate Range: USD $25-37.00 per hour Expenses: Allowed

Position Summary

The Vulnerable Populations Coordinator (VPC) serves as a critical liaison within the Healthcare Coalition (HCC) and Regional Health Department to strengthen preparedness, response, and recovery efforts for populations disproportionately impacted by disasters and public health emergencies. Working under the direction of the Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) and/or the Regional Healthcare Coordinator (RHC) / Emergency Response Coordinator (ERC), the VPC supports outreach, planning, training, and emergency response initiatives aimed at reducing health disparities and advancing health equity across the region.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Coordinate with Healthcare Coalitions (HCCs), healthcare facilities, and community organizations to integrate vulnerable population needs into all phases of emergency preparedness and response.

• Establish and maintain partnerships with long-term care, hospice, home health, dialysis, assisted living, behavioral health, and other providers serving at-risk populations.

• Support vaccination initiatives and infectious disease response efforts, including planning and operating Points of Distribution (PODs).

• Provide training and technical assistance on the Healthcare Resource Tracking System (HRTS) and Patient Bed Matching (PBM); serve as the regional Subject Matter Expert (SME) for PBM.

• Maintain coalition contact lists, inventories, and preventive maintenance records for coalition-owned assets.

• Develop and update resource directories of agencies and vendors supporting vulnerable populations (e.g., medical equipment providers, food banks, housing services, NGOs).

• Conduct outreach and host quarterly meetings with population-specific partners to enhance preparedness and coalition participation.

• Collaborate with government agencies, NGOs, and community coalitions (health councils, LEPCs, drug coalitions, etc.) to promote coordinated engagement.

• Support regional exercises and contribute to After-Action Reports and Improvement Plans addressing gaps affecting vulnerable populations.

• Assist with reporting, data management, and compliance with ASPR HPP and CDC PHEP program requirements.

• Provide logistical and operational support during emergencies and disaster activations.

• Perform additional duties as assigned by RHCs or ERCs.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of public health, emergency preparedness, and healthcare system operations.

• Understanding of social vulnerability, access, and functional needs in disaster planning.

• Ability to develop and deliver training for diverse stakeholder groups.

• Strong communication, facilitation, and relationship-building skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, HRTS, PBM, and preparedness platforms.

• Ability to manage coalition data, reporting requirements, and preventive maintenance schedules.

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Public Health, Emergency Management, Healthcare Administration, Social Work, or a related field (Masters degree preferred).

• Minimum of 23 years of experience in public health, healthcare preparedness, emergency management, or community outreach.

• FEMA ICS 100, 200, 700, and 800 required; ICS 300/400 preferred within 24 months of hire.

• Valid Tennessee drivers license with ability to travel regionally and statewide.

Physical & Work Environment

• Primarily office-based with frequent community and coalition travel.

• Requires intermittent sitting, standing, and occasional lifting of up to 30 lbs.

• Availability required for after-hours emergency response and extended shifts during activations.

• Moderate risk of exposure to public health hazards during emergency response operations.