Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of global health threats, the importance of Epidemic Intelligence Service Officers has never been more significant.

As diseases spread and evolve, the demand for skilled individuals who can trace, understand, and combat these threats increases.

But let’s delve deeper: What exactly is expected from an Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the field of epidemic intelligence,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer Duties and Responsibilities

Epidemic Intelligence Service Officers are professionals who work to protect public health by managing and preventing the spread of diseases.

They investigate outbreaks, track diseases, and implement control measures.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Investigating and managing outbreaks of infectious diseases within various communities
• Analyzing epidemiological data to track disease trends and identify risk factors
• Developing and implementing effective strategies to control and prevent disease outbreaks
• Conducting field investigations to collect data and samples for further analysis
• Communicating findings to health practitioners, policy makers, and the public
• Collaborating with local, national, and international health agencies to share information and coordinate responses to public health threats
• Writing detailed reports and scientific articles on findings and investigations
• Training and educating communities about disease prevention and health promotion strategies
• Advocating for policies and programs that improve public health and prevent the spread of diseases

 

Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and diligent Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS) Officer to investigate and manage public health threats.

The EIS Officer will conduct epidemiologic investigations, research, and public health surveillance both domestically and internationally.

The ideal candidate should possess strong analytical skills, excellent communication, and the ability to work under pressure during public health emergencies.

Your role will also involve collaborating with both local and international health organizations to control and prevent the occurrence of diseases.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough epidemiologic investigations and public health surveillance.
• Analyze data to identify trends, risk factors, and health events of public health importance.
• Develop and implement strategies to combat and control health threats.
• Prepare scientific and technical reports.
• Collaborate with local and international health organizations.
• Assist in the planning and implementation of emergency response protocols.
• Provide training on disease prevention and control to health professionals.
• Communicate findings and recommendations to a variety of audiences.

 

Qualifications

• Medical Degree or equivalent with a focus on Public Health, Epidemiology or a related field.
• Experience in public health, disease surveillance or epidemiological research is preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure during public health emergencies.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally.
• Experience with health data analysis software is a plus.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer
• Work Environment: This position may require travel to various locations for public health investigations. Office setting when not in field.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Epidemiology or Public Health Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer Do?

Epidemic Intelligence Service Officers, commonly known as EIS officers, are medical detectives who work under the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

They are typically involved in conducting epidemiological investigations, research, and public health surveillance both nationally and internationally.

Their primary role is to protect the public from health threats and emergencies.

This includes investigating outbreaks, monitoring epidemics, or pandemics, and implementing disease prevention strategies.

They often collect and analyze data to find the causes of diseases, identify trends, and evaluate the effectiveness of public health interventions.

EIS officers also often collaborate with other scientists, healthcare professionals, policy makers, and community members to improve health outcomes.

They could be dispatched to sites of disease outbreaks to lead field investigations, gather data, provide health education, and implement measures to control the spread of the disease.

In addition, EIS officers may also contribute to the development and implementation of public health policies and guidelines.

Their work is crucial in preventing the spread of diseases and ensuring a swift response to health emergencies, thereby safeguarding public health.

 

Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer Qualifications and Skills

An Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer is responsible for preventing and controlling diseases and public health issues.

Skills and qualifications relevant to this role include:

• Proficient knowledge of epidemiology and infectious diseases to understand the patterns, causes, and effects of health and disease conditions in defined populations.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to make sense of complex data and use it to make informed decisions and recommendations.
• Exceptional communication skills to clearly convey important information about public health risks and prevention strategies to diverse audiences.
• Research skills to conduct scientific investigations and interpret results in a meaningful way.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities to manage potential health crises and devise effective solutions.
• Interpersonal skills to collaborate with other health professionals, government officials, and the public.
• Advanced knowledge of public health laws and regulations to ensure that all actions taken are in compliance with local, state, and federal laws.
• Familiarity with statistical software and data analysis tools to collect, analyse and interpret data.
• Ability to handle stress and make critical decisions under pressure, often in emergency situations.

 

Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer Experience Requirements

Candidates for an Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer position are generally expected to hold a doctoral-level degree in health or medical sciences.

This means they would have gained extensive theoretical knowledge and practical experience in their respective fields during their studies.

Prior to becoming an EIS Officer, many candidates have 2 to 3 years of experience in health-related roles such as epidemiologists, medical doctors, nurses, veterinarians, or health scientists.

This experience provides them with a strong foundation in public health, data analysis, disease surveillance, and outbreak response.

Candidates with more than 3 years of professional experience are often expected to have developed specific skills in areas such as health research, data analysis, leadership, and communication.

They may also have experience working in multidisciplinary teams, and may have participated in field investigations or public health emergency responses.

Those with over 5 years of experience may have held leadership roles in public health or medical organizations.

They may also have advanced skills in epidemiology, biostatistics, or health policy, and may have experience working with diverse populations and in different geographic settings.

In addition to these professional experiences, EIS Officers are also expected to undergo specific training provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or similar public health agencies.

This training includes both classroom instruction and hands-on field assignments, and covers topics such as outbreak investigation, disease surveillance, and public health policy.

 

Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer Education and Training Requirements

Epidemic Intelligence Service Officers, also known as disease detectives, typically have an advanced degree in healthcare, such as a Doctor of Medicine (MD), Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD), Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in an applicable field like epidemiology or public health.

In addition to their advanced degree, they should have a minimum of one year of public health work experience or two years of clinical experience.

Prospective EIS officers must also apply to and be accepted into the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Epidemic Intelligence Service program, a two-year, post-graduate fellowship in applied epidemiology.

During this program, officers receive comprehensive training in epidemiology and public health surveillance systems, and work on the front lines of public health, researching and responding to outbreaks of diseases.

Many EIS officers go on to further specialize in a particular area of epidemiology, such as infectious diseases or chronic diseases, and may pursue additional training, certifications, or degrees in these areas.

Fluency in a second language and experience working or studying abroad can also be beneficial, as EIS officers often work on global health issues.

EIS officers must also possess strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills, as they often work in teams and need to communicate complex scientific information to the public and other health professionals.

 

Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer Salary Expectations

An Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer typically earns an average salary of $64,660 (USD) per year.

However, this salary can vary significantly based on factors such as years of experience, level of education, location, and the specific government or health organization the officer works for.

 

Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does an Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer need?

Epidemic Intelligence Service Officers are typically required to have an advanced degree in a health-related field such as Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, Dentistry, or a PhD in Epidemiology or other Public Health fields.

Additionally, they must have at least one year of clinical training or two years of applied epidemiology experience.

 

What are the daily duties of an Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer?

The daily duties of an Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer may include conducting epidemiologic investigations, research, and surveillance; implementing public health programs; responding to public health emergencies; training and managing field assignments; and communicating scientific and public health information.

This role involves a combination of fieldwork, data analysis, and report writing.

 

What skills are important for an Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer?

Important skills for an Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer include strong analytical skills to interpret data and identify health trends, excellent communication skills to explain their findings and recommend health interventions, and good problem-solving skills to develop effective strategies for controlling disease outbreaks.

They should also be detail-oriented and able to work well under pressure during public health emergencies.

 

How challenging is it to become an Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer?

Becoming an Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer can be quite challenging due to the high level of education and experience required.

The role also involves dealing with high-stress situations such as disease outbreaks and health emergencies.

However, for those with a passion for public health and a desire to make a significant impact on population health, the rewards can be immense.

 

What should you look for in an Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer resume?

A strong Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer resume should include an advanced degree in a relevant health field and clinical training or applied epidemiology experience.

It should highlight skills in epidemiologic investigations, research, surveillance, and public health program implementation.

Any experience in emergency response or dealing with disease outbreaks would also be a plus.

 

Conclusion

And so, the mystery unfolds.

Today, we’ve demystified the role of an Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about data collection and analysis.

It’s about being the frontline of global health, one epidemiological investigation at a time.

With our comprehensive Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer job description template and real-life examples, you’re prepared to take the plunge.

But don’t just stop there.

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate guide to creating pinpoint accurate job listings or honing your resume to brilliance.

Keep in mind:

Every health investigation is a piece of the global health puzzle.

Let’s solve that puzzle. Together.

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