Public Health Director

Job Summary :

The Public Health Director is responsible for overseeing the planning, implementation, and management of public health programs and initiatives for Phelps and Maries Counties. This position works under the guidance of the County Commission and Medical Director and is tasked with ensuring the overall health and well-being of the county's residents. The Director will lead efforts to prevent and mitigate health risks, promote health equity, and provide strategic direction to public health services. This position requires a strong leadership presence and collaboration with government agencies, community organizations, and health professionals.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

Leadership & Strategic Planning:

Oversee the development and execution of the county's public health initiatives and policies. Collaborate with the County Commission to ensure alignment with county health priorities. Ensure the integration of public health strategies into community development, emergency preparedness, and other county programs. Lead and support public health staff in the achievement of strategic objectives, goals, and performance outcomes.

Program & Policy Management:

Direct and manage public health programs focused on disease prevention, health promotion, communicable disease, maternal and child health, environmental health, and more. Develop and implement policies, procedures, and programs to address pressing public health issues in the county. Oversee compliance with local, state, and federal regulations concerning public health operations.

Public Health Education & Advocacy:

Advocate for public health priorities with county commissioners, other government entities, and local organizations. Engage with the community to raise awareness about health risks, disease prevention, and wellness. Serve as the county's primary information officer on public health matters, addressing media, community groups, and stakeholders.

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement:

Build and maintain relationships with local healthcare providers, governmental agencies, non-profits, and community organizations. Work with regional health authorities, healthcare systems, and universities to strengthen public health infrastructure. Actively participate in local, state, and national public health networks, partnerships, and coalitions.

Budget & Resource Management:

Develop, manage, and monitor the department's budget, ensuring effective allocation of resources. Secure and manage funding opportunities through grants, state or federal resources, and other relevant avenues. Oversee the procurement and deployment of public health services and resources, ensuring cost-effective management.

Data Management & Reporting:

Monitor and assess public health trends, data, and outcomes to inform decision-making. Provide regular reports to the County Commission on the status of public health programs and initiatives. Ensure the collection, analysis, and dissemination of health data to guide interventions and track program effectiveness. Manage agency's website and social media accounts.

Emergency Preparedness & Response:

Lead public health responses to emergencies such as disease outbreaks, natural disasters, or public health crises. Collaborate with local, state, and federal agencies in the development and implementation of emergency preparedness plans.

Minimum Knowledge and Abilities Required:

In-depth knowledge of public health principles, regulations, and best practices. Strong understanding of epidemiology, public health law, and environmental health. Ability to analyze and interpret health data, generate reports, and utilize evidence-based strategies. Excellent communication skills, including the ability to engage diverse stakeholders and provide clear, actionable information. Proven track record in budget management and resource allocation. Ability to manage teams and lead complex public health initiatives. Proficient in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) Must possess a valid Missouri Driver's License and reliable transportation.

Educational and Eligibility Requirements:

A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum of 15 earned credit hours in one or a combination of the following: biology, chemistry, physics, nursing, public health, public administration, social work, statistical analysis, or closely related field, and Five or more years of professional experience in public health, social services, public administration, or closely related field, including two or more years with responsibility for program planning, development, coordination, or implementation. Progressive leadership experience required OR A Master's degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum of 15 earned credit hours in one or a combination of the following: biology, chemistry, physics, nursing, public health, public administration, social work, statistical analysis, or closely related field, and Three or more years of professional experience in public health, social services, public administration, or closely related field, including two or more years with responsibility for program planning, development, coordination, or implementation. Progressive leadership experience required.

Key Competencies:

Accuracy:

Ability to perform work accurately and thoroughly.

Adaptability:

Ability to adapt to change in the workplace and shift focus with little notice.

Communication:

Must be able to read, write, and speak clearly. Language skills must be commensurate with education requirements. Frequent communication occurs via telephone or email.

Computer Skills:

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)

Customer Oriented:

Ability to take care of the customers' needs while following company procedures.

Ethical:

Ability to demonstrate conduct conforming to a set of values and accepted standards.

Reliability:

The trait of being dependable and trustworthy.

Safety Awareness:

Ability to identify and correct conditions that affect employee safety.

Self-motivated:

Ability to be internally inspired to perform a task to the best of one's ability using his or her own drive or initiative.

Team Builder:

Ability to convince a group of people to work toward a goal.

Time Management:

Ability to utilize the available time to organize and complete work within given deadlines.

Physical Demands:

Physical demands of this job include sitting, standing, walking, reaching, climbing, crawling, squatting or kneeling, bending, lifting and/or carrying up to 50 lbs., pushing and/or pulling up to 50 lbs. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) - Must be able to perform job functions while wearing PPE such as masks, gloves, gown, and goggles.

Work Environment:

The selected candidate will be required to reside within the service jurisdiction within 180 days of hire. This position includes both office and community-based work, minimal lifting/carrying of materials, evening and/or weekend hours, ability to work in emergency situations including extended hours during public health crises, and the potential for work within reasonable adverse weather conditions (snow, rain, heat).

Special Note:

All employees of the Phelps/Maries County Health Department are considered First Responders in the Event of a Disaster Response Situation. All employees must report for duty upon request of the Director or designee during a public health emergency. Continuing Education Requirements /

Expectations:

As a condition of employment by Phelps/Maries County Health Department, the employee must maintain all applicable licenses and certifications appropriate to this position in current status. This requirement contemplates satisfactory completion of required course work. Completion of continuing education course work that may not be mandatory; but which is designed to ensure currency in the discipline, is encouraged. Additionally, emergency response training courses, identified as appropriate by ordinance, statute, or administration must be completed within established time frames. Annually, administration will require various course work completion which is not discipline specific and is determined to be of benefit to the organization as a whole. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, genetic information, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$60,000.00 - $70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person