Preparedness Speciailist - Posting 501629

Under the supervision of the Manager IV, acts as the point of contact for the preparedness program assets for regional planning, response and recovery. Maintains and tracks inventory of internal and external resources related to public health response and recovery. Participates in the process of researching, acquiring, receiving, dispensing and recovery of preparedness health assets. Serves as a technical assistance backup for program staff on travel, requisitions, program databases and deployable equipment assets. Assists preparedness and epidemiology programs during public health emergencies. Serves as the lead in maintenance and storage of equipment for public health responses. Maintains program warehouses, trailers and vehicles in a state of readiness. Conducts inventory management and warehouse operations. Assist in maintaining program communication equipment and Regional Ops Center in a state of readiness. Serves on the Regional All Hazards Team during public health events. Assist the Epidemiology Team during disease outbreaks. Serves as a member of the after-hours 24/7 disease reporting team. Travels within the state of Texas and HSR 9/10 (32 counties). Works with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. 

30%) Operational Support: Participates in conducting various needs assessments within Region 9 & 10 (32 counties). Position will travel to assist in conducting, planning, implementation of regional public health related trainings meeting the CDC Preparedness grant requirements. Travels within Region 9 & 10 (32 counties) to promote and maintain effective relationships with all DSHS programs and stakeholders in order to promote public health preparedness and Epidemiology activities. Provides assistance in dissemination of public health and medical information related to public health emergencies. Serves as a resource for program digital and print material. Creates awareness training related to public health preparedness. Assist in maintaing the DSHS employee training databases. Position will use various graphic software programs to create training programs and databases. Provide assistance to Preparedness Planner and Trainer with preparedness activities. Assist with medical supplies inventory and maintenance.

(30%) All Hazard Support: Serves as lead for program inventory/warehouse software databases. Assist with inventory of vehicles, response trailers and preparedness equipment required to support public health response deployments and medical special needs activities. Supports fleet operations including log books, fueling, inspections, vehicle services and monthly summaries. May deploy to support regional preparedness and epidemiology responses.Manages equipment and supply inventory at program warehouse including receiving, documenting/inventory, dispensing, and recovering supply/equipment. Transport program equipment and supplies to support regional responses. Provides training on equipment and supplies used during deployments.

(20%) - Epidemiology Support-Provides direct support to the ERT/PHP Team with special projects or disease investigations which may include working with databases; compiling data; and producing standardized forms as needed. Assist with training activities to include the preparation of materials, coordinates logistics for facilities or meeting locations; liaison work with other agencies and personnel for response activities. Assists with incoming correspondences and faxes, and routes to appropriate programs. Assists the Epidemiology program in sending out infectious disease reports while maintaining HIPAA standards. Assist in annual program inventory in agency warehouse and storage. Supports medical activities

(15%) Preparedness Response: Position will travel to assist with regional public health response activities in HSR 9 & 10. Supports regional staff, during activation of the regional health and medical operation center. Assists program during trainings, outbreaks, natural disasters and public health emergencies. Serves as member of the after-hours 24/7 disease reporting team.

(5%) Other Duties: Performs special assignments as requested. Other duties as assigned include but are 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 activation. Supports Regional Health and Medical Operations during public health emergencies.

 Knowledge Skills Abilities:

Knowledge of emergency management preparedness and response procedures.

Knowledge of Fema procedures, systems, and processes.

Knowledge of Inventory practices and management

Knowledge of Medical Terminolgy

Knowledge of driving and maintenance of various vehicles, (vans,trucks and trailers).

Knowledge of record keeping and accounting principles

Knowledge of creating spreadsheets and databases (Excel and Access)

Knowledge of preparing sensitive and confidential documents

Knowledge using various trailer equipment

Skill in developing and conducting training

Skill in preparing technical reports and forms.

Skill in conducting education and training to diverse populations.

Skill in the use of computer programs to develop databases and spreadsheets.

Skill in the use of tools to maintain program fleet.

Ability to work in warehouses and storage facilities.

Ability to work well as a member of a team; exercising tact and diplomacy

Ability to act in a sound, logical and appropriate manner based on thoughtful, professional analysis of a situation or problem

Ability to work discreetly, maintain confidentiality of employee information and medical records

Ability to prioritize work, meets deadlines, manage time effectively, organize schedules and use initiative to solve problems

Ability to maintain a high level of discretion when dealing with sensitive/confidential information.

 Registration or Licensure Requirements:

None  Initial Selection Criteria:

Initial Screening Criteria: Graduation from a College or University. Current documented work experience and education may be substituted for one another. Working hours other than Monday-Friday 8am-5pm. Ability to travel within the State of Texas. (25% day and 10% night)  

1.Initial prescreening by phone may be conducted.

2. In basket exercise may be conducted

3. Oral interview with interview panel

Travel within the State of Texas. (25% day and 10% night). Ability to work hours other than Monday-Friday 8am-5pm.Valid Driver’s license required. HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

Please Job description on the Texas HHSC Jobs Center for a complete description.