DSHS is committed to hiring skilled and dedicated individuals who share a passion for public health to pursue our vision of A Healthy Texas. DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS). To learn more about all the benefits available to you as a DSHS employee and other DSHS opportunities for early career pathways, visit the DSHS Careers Page.
Functional Title:
HIV Prevention Epidemiologist III
Epidemiologist III
Agency: Dept of State Health Services
Department:
HIV Planning
Community and Social Services
Shift: Day
Additional Shift:
Days (First)
Telework: Eligible for Telework
Travel:
Up to 25%
Regular/Temporary: Full Time/Part Time: Full time
Facility Location:
This position is located in the HIV/STD Prevention Unit and requires specialized knowledge of health behaviors related to HIV and STD transmission. Under the supervision of the Planning and Prevention Analytics Manager, the Epidemiologist III designs and implements statistical analyses appropriate for epidemiologic and programmatic data with a focus on HIV and STD prevention programming. The position designs data collection processes, coordinates data collection, and develops and maintains programmatic databases. The position provides oversight, technical assistance, and data support to HIV prevention contractors. The position authors DSHS-published reports, creates program briefs, and researches articles based on analysis of epidemiologic and program data. The position designs and implements research studies based on programmatic need. Provides guidance and assistance to internal staff and contracting sites on performance monitoring for selected HIV prevention programs. Authors portions of HIV prevention grant applications and progress reports, including working as a team to update progress towards goals and program indicators. Works closely with data management staff to coordinate data collection and analysis. Coordinates efforts with other program staff, working as a team on all phases of epidemiologic, planning, and evaluation functions. Data cleaning and analysis are primarily performed using SAS; knowledge of MS Excel and Access is essential.
SAS or R coding) processes to ensure the completeness and quality of data from HIV prevention contractors' monthly data submission. Develop procedures that include the monitoring of prevention contractors' compliance with data submission, data security, and data quality. Consult with HIV prevention contractors, including Federally Qualified Health Centers, hospital administrators, Community-Based Organizations, and regional and local health department administrators on data quality to reduce submission errors and improve reporting.
(20%) Design or improve electronic processes to match HIV prevention data with other datasets, including eHARS, THESIS, TCT, and other analysis files, to improve data completeness in federal data submissions and identify programmatic areas for improvement. Design and maintain electronic data dashboards monitoring program outcomes for Unit and Section leadership.
(20%) Propose, initiate, and lead studies and investigations of HIV prevention data, including designing specifications and analysis. Presents findings to HIV/STD Section leadership and public stakeholders. Conducts evaluation and analysis activities focusing on HIV and STD prevention programs, working with program staff and external partners to design and implement projects related to HIV/STD prevention. Conducts advanced analyses of HIV/STD epidemiologic, demographic, and other health-related and client-based data needed for projections and descriptive analyses for DSHS publications, program evaluation efforts, and for research reports. Prepares and delivers epidemiologic and programmatic data presentations to internal and external public partners on program data, special studies, and evaluation processes.
(15%) Develops and implements training programs, including materials such as one-page instruction sheets, training videos, PowerPoints, and operational manuals on HIV epidemiology and prevention, to improve programmatic outcomes. Consults and advises internal and external stakeholders, including local health departments, hospital administrators, community health centers, and community-based organizations, on the efficacy of HIV prevention activities and outcomes.
(10%) Prepares and submits epidemiologic and programmatic data to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in compliance with grant requirements. Oversees and manages the development of program reporting related to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's grant reporting requirements, including the annual progress report and year-end reports.
(5%) Other duties as assigned, including but not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency's obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.
Knowledge of the basic principles and methods of epidemiology and related biostatistics; infectious diseases, HIV/STD epidemiology, and how causes of disease affect epidemiologic practices.
Knowledge or processes and requirements of working with sensitive personal health information.
Knowledge of theory and evidence related to health behavior intervention.
Knowledge of data analysis methods, research design, statistics, and data collection, especially as it relates to program evaluation.
Skill in the use of a computer and applicable software, in collecting and abstracting data from health records, in analyzing and interpreting large amounts of data, and in critical thinking.
Skilled at using SAS, MS Access, and Excel, database programs, and spreadsheets.
Skilled at writing reports on academic or scientific topics aimed at the general public.
Ability to communicate effectively with members of the public and contractor personnel.
Ability to design and implement training materials and program manuals.
Ability to manage projects and prepare reports on epidemiological studies and investigations; Ability to design and produce written, tabular, and graphic reports for public release and for internal statistical updates needed by agency staff and contractors.
Ability to interpret epidemiologic information on HIV/STD and program information and to provide consultation and leadership to a wide variety of sources seeking information and direction.
Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: None
Graduation from an accredited college or university with major coursework in epidemiology, microbiology, infectious diseases, biostatistics, or a related field. Minimum 2 years of experience performing basic statistical analysis.
Minimum 2 years of experience communicating data and data systems to general audiences.
Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, And Veterans
Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified for this position. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DSHS will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process for individuals with a qualifying disability.
