Public Health Nurse I

at State of Vermont in Rutland, Vermont, United States

Job Description

The Public Health Nurse is responsible for infectious disease epidemiology and improving vaccination rates in Rutland County. Epidemiology job duties include conducting contact tracing interviews, working with community partners in the reporting and surveillance of infectious diseases, and providing public health recommendations to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. In the management of some infectious diseases, the Public Health Nurse may be asked to perform in-person case management and Directly Observed Therapy. Immunization job duties include training healthcare providers enrolled in the Vaccines for Children and Vaccines for Adults programs in immunization best practices, supporting providers in the use of the Vermont Immunization Registry and working with practices to increase vaccine coverage rates.

The Public Health Nurse will also provide support to schools and childcare facilities regarding vaccination requirements and vaccine-preventable illnesses. The Public Health Nurse is responsible for organizing and conducting vaccination clinics. This aspect of the job requires vaccine ordering and management as well as vaccine administration. In all aspects of the job, the Public Health Nurse will strive to provide equitably, linguistically, and culturally appropriate care to meet the needs of all Vermonters. During public health emergencies, Public Health Nurses are expected to support public health activities. Extended workday or weekend hours may be required.

As part of the Vermont Department of Health, the Rutland District Office is in Downtown Rutland Vermont. We are committed to building and maintaining a multicultural and diverse workforce, and we strive to offer a supportive, professionally challenging, and healthy workplace to our employees.

*Starting rate may be negotiable based on experience and qualifications. 

The Division of Local Health works to preserve and improve the equitable social, economic, and environmental conditions necessary to attain the highest level of health and well-being for all, thus ensuring healthy Vermonters. The Division of Local Health is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming environment that respects and celebrates every person's strength, assets, and values. The Division of Local Health is committed to leading organizational change efforts that address avoidable inequities and injustices as we work towards the elimination of health and health care disparities.  

TELEWORK 
State of Vermont telework policy requires at least three days a week working in the office. The Department of Health supports a hybrid work environment which combines both in person and remote work.  Upon hire, employees work with their supervisor to create a schedule that aligns with the business needs of the unit and complies with State of Vermont policy. We believe a hybrid work environment promotes autonomy and allows for increased flexibility and greater work/life balance. 
 

MISSION - Promote the physical, mental, and social well-being of people in Vermont by advancing equity, protecting against disease and injury, and preparing for health emergencies. 

VISION - All people and communities in Vermont have equitable opportunities to achieve their highest level of health and well-being.    

VALUES 

• Equity: We aim to center health justice and address racism and all forms of oppression in our programs and policies, our approach to collaboration, and how we build and nurture our workforce.      
• Collaboration: We engage with staff and partners to understand complex problems and design responsive solutions.  
• Inclusion: We support a culture of belonging and diversity where people are valued, trusted, and able to be their authentic selves.  
• Harmony: We endorse a balanced, thoughtful, and intentional work environment that allows employees to care for themselves, their families, and the people they serve. 
• Data: We strive for scientific excellence and cultural responsiveness in the collection, analysis, sharing and use of data.
• Environmental Factors

  Duties primarily performed in a standard office setting. Work may be performed in clinic settings and possibly client homes. Exposure to communicable diseases and other stressful situations may occur. Private means of transportation is required. May be required to work evenings, weekends and 12 hour shifts.