Public Health Specialist I - Chronic Disease

at State of Vermont in Rutland, Vermont, United States

Job Description

The Vermont Department of Health Rutland District office is looking for an enthusiastic and experienced public health professional to focus on chronic disease prevention for populations experiencing the greatest disparities: BIPOC, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, populations with low socioeconomic status and rural communities. This position will be directly responsible for implementing systems-level approaches for improved access to physical activity, nutrition, tobacco prevention, oral health, and preventive care. Ideal candidates will understand the root causes of health inequities and have experience using public health frameworks with community-based coalitions to address them. Extensive relationship building with staff, state partners, and community partners is required.  

We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds and identities to apply. Embracing unique perspectives is integral to our team, and each new hire enriches our office with fresh viewpoints. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, providing each team member with what they need to succeed.  

Examples of work include: 

Provide leadership to communities using data to assess, prioritize, and develop sustainable interventions aimed at improving chronic disease outcomes. 

Work collaboratively to develop the capacity of the community to improve access to physical activity, nutrition, tobacco prevention, oral health, and preventive care.  

Evaluate the process, short-term and long-term outcomes of prevention interventions. 

Provide technical support for the integration of health equity and access to care strategies within municipal and organizational planning 

Will participate in and support community-based coalitions that examine health data, set goals, and develop plans to improve health outcomes. Enlist civic and municipal leaders as well as leaders at the grassroots level to help advance local community policy and program agendas 

Priority-setting and decision-making informed by community input ("Nothing about us without us") and local data tools including Community Health Needs Assessment, YBRS and Department of Health data.

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 
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.

Duties are performed in both a standard office and field settings. Private means of transportation must be available for required travel. Stress may be anticipated in dealing with emotional situations involving application of programs, especially in dealing with families and in the allocation of program resources.