Outbreak Investigator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In a world increasingly threatened by disease and public health crises, the role of outbreak investigators has never been more crucial.

As the global landscape shifts, the demand for skilled professionals who can trace, analyze, and contain disease outbreaks grows exponentially.

But what does an outbreak investigator actually do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the qualifications for the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the complex world of outbreak investigation,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Outbreak Investigator job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Outbreak Investigator Duties and Responsibilities

Outbreak Investigators are healthcare professionals who conduct field investigations of infectious disease outbreaks and implement control measures to prevent further spread.

They have a crucial role in public health, working to understand the causes and impacts of various diseases.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Conduct epidemiological investigations to identify the source of disease outbreaks
• Collect and analyze data to determine the cause and spread of the outbreak
• Interview patients, healthcare workers, and community members to gather information on potential exposure and symptoms
• Implement control measures to prevent further spread of the disease
• Collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and public health officials, to manage the outbreak
• Prepare reports detailing findings, actions taken, and recommendations for future prevention strategies
• Educate the public and healthcare workers about disease prevention and control
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of control measures and adjust strategies as necessary
• Stay updated on latest research and developments in infectious diseases

 

Outbreak Investigator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Outbreak Investigator to study and respond to communicable disease outbreaks.

The Outbreak Investigator will be responsible for collecting data, conducting interviews, and analyzing information to determine the source and control methods of outbreaks.

This role requires a thorough understanding of epidemiology, excellent investigative skills, and the ability to communicate effectively with the public.

The ideal candidate will have experience in public health and be able to work under pressure in fast-paced situations.

 

Responsibilities

• Investigate reports of communicable diseases and outbreaks
• Collect and analyze epidemiological data
• Conduct interviews with patients and close contacts
• Implement strategies for outbreak control and prevention
• Report findings to health departments and other relevant parties
• Work with multidisciplinary teams for effective outbreak management
• Provide education and information to the public on prevention and control measures
• Comply with all regulations and guidelines for disease surveillance and control

 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, or a related field
• Experience in public health or a related field is preferred
• Strong investigative and data analysis skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Knowledge of disease surveillance systems and public health practices

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Outbreak Investigator
• Work Environment: Fieldwork and office environment. Travel may be required for investigations and meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Epidemiology or Public Health Officer.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $65,000 minimum to $95,000 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 Outbreak Investigator Do?

An Outbreak Investigator typically works for public health agencies or institutions, research organizations, or health-focused non-profit organizations.

They are responsible for researching and analyzing data related to the spread of diseases.

When an outbreak occurs, whether it’s a foodborne illness or a pandemic, they step in to determine the cause and to develop strategies to control and prevent further spread.

Their job is to identify the source of an outbreak by collecting and analyzing data, conducting interviews with affected individuals, and inspecting sites where exposure may have occurred.

They may collaborate with other health professionals, laboratory scientists, and statisticians to interpret data and present findings.

This could involve generating reports and presenting them to stakeholders, or even the general public.

Outbreak Investigators also play a crucial role in developing and implementing intervention strategies, such as vaccination programs, to control an outbreak.

They may also be involved in creating policies and guidelines to prevent future outbreaks.

Their work is not only reactive, but also proactive as they are expected to monitor and assess health trends and potential risks in the community.

They must have a strong understanding of epidemiology and public health principles, as well as excellent analytical and communication skills.

 

Outbreak Investigator Qualifications and Skills

Outbreak Investigators require a unique combination of technical knowledge, interpersonal skills and a keen analytical mind, including:

• Background in epidemiology or related field for understanding and analyzing the spread of diseases
• Proficient in data collection and analysis to identify and investigate disease outbreaks effectively
• Strong research abilities to uncover the cause and source of the outbreak
• Superior problem-solving skills to determine effective ways to control and prevent the spread of the disease
• Excellent communication skills for collaborating with other health professionals, reporting findings, and educating the public about health risks
• Attention to detail to ensure all possible leads are followed up on and accurate records are maintained
• Ability to work under pressure and handle stressful situations, as outbreaks often require immediate response
• Interpersonal skills to work with diverse populations and handle sensitive health information

 

Outbreak Investigator Experience Requirements

An Outbreak Investigator typically starts their career path by earning a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, or a related field.

This educational background equips them with the necessary theoretical knowledge to understand and investigate disease outbreaks.

Entry-level Outbreak Investigators may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships or part-time roles in public health departments, research institutions, or healthcare facilities.

In these roles, they may assist with data collection, analysis, and reporting.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have a solid understanding of outbreak investigation procedures, data analysis, and public health communication.

They may have worked in roles such as Public Health Analyst, Epidemiologist, or Health Educator.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are likely to have led investigations, coordinated response strategies, and made significant contributions to public health policy.

They may be ready for senior or managerial roles, where they can oversee and direct outbreak investigations.

Some organizations may require Outbreak Investigators to have a Master’s degree in Public Health or Epidemiology, which provides advanced training in disease surveillance, biostatistics, and health policy.

This degree, along with extensive field experience, may qualify investigators for roles at national or international public health organizations.

 

Outbreak Investigator Education and Training Requirements

Outbreak Investigators typically require a bachelor’s degree in epidemiology, public health, biology, or a related field.

This education provides a strong foundation in understanding how diseases spread, how to manage and control outbreaks, and how to analyze data related to disease incidence and prevalence.

Many positions may require a master’s degree in Public Health (MPH) or a similar field with a concentration in epidemiology or infectious diseases.

This advanced degree provides in-depth knowledge of disease investigation and control, biostatistics, and public health policy.

In addition to formal education, practical experience is often required.

This can be gained through internships, fellowships, or work in a public health or medical setting.

Outbreak Investigators must also have strong analytical skills, as they often work with complex databases and statistical software to analyze health data.

Therefore, courses or certification in biostatistics or data analysis can be beneficial.

Some positions may also require specific certifications, such as the Certified in Public Health (CPH) credential or the Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology (CIC) certification, indicating an advanced level of knowledge and professionalism in the field.

Continuing education is crucial for Outbreak Investigators to stay updated with the latest research, techniques, and technologies in the field of outbreak investigation and control.

 

Outbreak Investigator Salary Expectations

An Outbreak Investigator can expect to earn an average salary of $70,920 (USD) per year.

The actual income can fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience in the field, specific qualifications, and the location of the job.

 

Outbreak Investigator Job Description FAQs

What skills does an outbreak investigator need?

Outbreak investigators require strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as they are responsible for identifying the causes and patterns of disease outbreaks.

They should possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with various stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, community members, and public health officials.

They should also be detail-oriented and have the ability to work well under pressure.

 

Do outbreak investigators need a degree?

Yes, most outbreak investigator positions require at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field like public health, epidemiology, or microbiology.

Some roles may require a master’s degree or higher.

In addition, they may need specific training in infectious diseases and outbreak investigation.

 

What should you look for in an outbreak investigator resume?

In an outbreak investigator resume, look for a strong educational background in a related field, such as public health or epidemiology.

Experience in conducting epidemiological investigations and analyzing public health data are also crucial.

Knowledge of relevant software and statistical tools is a plus.

They should also have experience in report writing and presentations.

 

What qualities make a good outbreak investigator?

A good outbreak investigator should be highly analytical, with strong problem-solving skills to identify and analyze disease outbreaks.

They should be detail-oriented to ensure accurate data collection and analysis.

Excellent communication skills are important to effectively convey information to a variety of audiences.

They should also have good interpersonal skills to establish and maintain collaborative relationships with various stakeholders.

 

Is it difficult to hire outbreak investigators?

Hiring outbreak investigators can be challenging due to the specialized skill set required for the role.

The role requires a strong educational background in relevant fields and specific experience in epidemiological investigations.

Therefore, finding candidates with the right combination of education, skills, and experience can be a challenging task.

Offering competitive salaries and opportunities for professional development can attract qualified applicants.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you an inside look at what it truly entails to be an outbreak investigator.

And you know what?

It’s not just about analyzing data.

It’s about safeguarding public health, one investigation at a time.

Our dedicated outbreak investigator job description template, paired with real-world examples, prepares you to make your move.

But why hold back?

Deepen your understanding with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for crafting precise job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Keep in mind:

Every investigation contributes to the larger mission.

Let’s protect public health. Together.

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