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Request to establish the Epidemiologist (Senior) classification specification and modify Epidemiologist classification specification
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HUMAN RESOURCES’ RECOMMENDATION
The Department of Human Resources recommends the Civil Service Commission to establish the classification specification of Epidemiologist (Senior) and modify the classification specification of Epidemiologist.
SUMMARY
The Epidemiologist (Senior) will be unique to the Health and Social Services Department. This classification specification was created act as a lead worker to Epidemiologists, and to conduct the most complex epidemiological studies. Additionally, the Epidemiologist classification specification was modified to delete outdated terminology and introduce standardized language into the classification.
DISCUSSION
Epidemiology is the area of healthcare that deals with the incidence, distribution, and possible control of diseases, illnesses and other health inequities. The Epidemiologist (Senior) classification was created in response to the Board of Supervisors addition of the “Epidemiologist (Senior) - to be determined (TBD)” position as part of the adopted budget.
The Epidemiologist (Senior) will, under general direction, will plan, design, direct, and conduct complex epidemiologic and biostatistical studies, investigations, and research. Additionally, the incumbent will provide direction and oversight to assigned staff, and will publish and disseminate information to all stakeholders, including the public. Incumbents in this position will have a minimum of four (4) years of experience in the field of epidemiology, which includes conceiving, designing, conducting, analyzing, interpreting, and evaluation epidemiological studies with emphasis or specialization in epidemiology. The Epidemiologist (Senior) will work with other Public Health professionals, to study and determine root causes of health inequities. This is a highly technical classification, with a minimum education requirement of a Master’s Degree in epidemiology, public health or a health science field with an emphasis or specialization in epidemiology. A doctoral degree (e.g. PhD, DrPH, or similar) may be substituted for one year of the required experience.
The changes to the Epidemiologist are minor, primarily updating outdated terminology and introducing standardized formatting and language into the classification.
Attached is a copy of the proposed new class specification, the original classification specification for Epidemiologist, and the revised classification specification for Epidemiologist.
ALTERNATIVES
The Civil Service Commission could elect not to approve the proposed class specification; however, this is not recommended as the Health and Social Services Department has requested this class and the Board of Supervisors approved adding one position.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT
Human Resources worked with staff from the Health and Social Services Department in creating the class specification. On November 19, 2018, the County met with SEIU to meet and confer over the Epidemiologist (Senior) classification specification and the revised classification specification for Epidemiologist. The County agreed to incorporate the suggested SEIU changes.