Public Health Preparedness Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of global health concerns, the role of Public Health Preparedness Managers has never been more critical.

As health issues evolve, the demand for skilled professionals who can plan, coordinate, and implement strategies for public health emergencies continues to grow.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Public Health Preparedness Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker wanting to understand the fundamentals of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the crucial role of public health preparedness,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Public Health Preparedness Manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Public Health Preparedness Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Public Health Preparedness Managers work to ensure that the public health system is ready to respond to all types of emergencies, including natural disasters and disease outbreaks.

They coordinate with various public health departments, healthcare facilities, and emergency response teams, and are responsible for creating and implementing preparedness plans.

The following are some of the main duties and responsibilities of a Public Health Preparedness Manager:

• Developing and implementing preparedness plans and strategies for public health emergencies
• Coordinating with local, state, and federal public health departments and other key stakeholders
• Assessing and monitoring the readiness of public health systems to respond to emergencies
• Planning, conducting, and evaluating exercises to test the effectiveness of preparedness plans
• Providing training to public health staff and other key personnel on preparedness plans and protocols
• Assisting in the response to public health emergencies, including overseeing the implementation of preparedness plans
• Ensuring compliance with relevant public health laws, regulations, and standards
• Communicating effectively with the public, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders about public health threats and emergency response efforts
• Maintaining knowledge of current trends and developments in public health preparedness
• Identifying and addressing gaps in public health preparedness and response capabilities

 

Public Health Preparedness Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Public Health Preparedness Manager to plan, develop and manage health programs designed to respond to public health emergencies and disasters.

Responsibilities include developing and implementing disaster response protocols, coordinating with various health departments, and ensuring compliance with local, state and federal regulations.

Our ideal candidates have a deep understanding of public health issues, emergency management, and disaster preparedness.

Ultimately, the role of the Public Health Preparedness Manager is to ensure our community’s readiness and effective response to public health emergencies.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement public health preparedness plans
• Coordinate with local, state and federal agencies in disaster response activities
• Conduct training programs for health professionals and community members
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of preparedness strategies
• Ensure compliance with public health and emergency management regulations
• Prepare and manage budgets for public health preparedness programs
• Perform risk assessments and devise mitigation strategies
• Manage public health emergency response drills and exercises
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of emerging public health threats

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience in public health, emergency management or a related field
• Knowledge of disaster response and crisis management protocols
• Ability to develop and implement public health preparedness plans
• Excellent communication and leadership skills
• Knowledge of budgeting, financial management and performance evaluation
• Strong organizational and project management skills
• Master’s degree in Public Health, Emergency Management, or a related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for professional development

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Public Health Preparedness Manager
• Work Environment: Office setting with occasional field operations. Some travel may be required for meetings or training.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Public Health.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $110,000 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 a Public Health Preparedness Manager Do?

Public Health Preparedness Managers primarily work for government agencies, healthcare facilities, or non-profit organizations.

They can also provide consultancy services to these establishments.

Their main role is to plan, develop, and implement strategies for emergency preparedness in the public health sector.

They work closely with other health professionals, emergency management teams, and community leaders to ensure that the public health systems are ready to respond to any health emergencies or disasters.

They are responsible for reviewing and updating emergency response plans, coordinating training programs for staff, and organizing drills to test the efficiency of these plans.

They may also manage budgets and resources allocated for emergency preparedness.

Public Health Preparedness Managers are also tasked with ensuring that their organization is compliant with all local, state, and federal regulations regarding public health emergencies.

They often work in collaboration with various healthcare and emergency response agencies to share and gather information about potential health threats and disasters.

They also play a crucial role in public communication during health emergencies by sharing accurate and timely information, advising on preventive measures, and providing updates on the situation.

In the event of a public health emergency, they take the lead in coordinating the response efforts, managing resources, and liaising with different stakeholders to effectively mitigate the crisis.

They also evaluate the effectiveness of the response post-crisis, and make necessary adjustments to improve future preparedness.

 

Public Health Preparedness Manager Qualifications and Skills

A Public Health Preparedness Manager should have a range of skills and qualifications to effectively manage and coordinate public health emergencies, including:

• Strong knowledge in public health, epidemiology, and emergency management to understand the unique challenges in public health emergencies and devise appropriate responses.
• Leadership skills to guide and manage a team of public health professionals during crises and oversee public health initiatives.
• Strategic planning skills to create, implement, and maintain emergency preparedness plans and programs, ensuring they align with public health priorities and strategies.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively coordinate with local, state, and federal agencies, as well as to disseminate public health information to the community.
• Crisis management skills to respond effectively to public health emergencies, including natural disasters, disease outbreaks, and bioterrorism events.
• Analytical skills to interpret data and use it to guide decision-making and policy development.
• Problem-solving skills to address the challenges and obstacles that arise in public health emergencies and in the development and implementation of public health programs.

 

Public Health Preparedness Manager Experience Requirements

Public Health Preparedness Managers typically need a minimum of 5 years of experience in public health, emergency management, or a related field.

This includes experience in preparing for, responding to, and recovering from public health emergencies.

They must have experience in strategic planning, project management, and coordination of emergency responses.

Experience in working with multiple stakeholders, such as government agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations, is also a crucial requirement.

Candidates with more than 7 years of experience often have a solid background in public health program implementation, epidemiology, and policy development.

They may also have experience in training staff and volunteers in emergency preparedness.

Those with more than 10 years of experience are likely to have served in leadership roles, overseeing emergency preparedness programs, developing policies, and collaborating with local, state, and federal agencies.

They may be prepared for a senior management role or even a director position in public health preparedness.

Furthermore, experience in grant writing and management, budgeting, and resource allocation is also beneficial for this role.

 

Public Health Preparedness Manager Education and Training Requirements

Public Health Preparedness Managers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in a health-related field such as public health, healthcare administration, or nursing.

Some roles may require a master’s degree in public health, emergency management, or a related field.

In addition to formal education, several years of experience in public health, emergency preparedness, or disaster management is usually required.

This experience can be gained through work in healthcare settings, government agencies, or non-profit organizations.

Public Health Preparedness Managers need a strong background in public health principles and emergency response procedures.

They must be knowledgeable about disaster planning, risk assessment, and health policy.

Familiarity with local, state, and federal emergency management protocols is crucial.

Certification can be an added advantage for candidates.

The Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) or Certified Public Health (CPH) credential can demonstrate a commitment to the field and a high level of professionalism.

Public Health Preparedness Managers are also expected to participate in continuing education programs to stay updated with the latest research, policy changes, and best practices in emergency preparedness and public health.

 

Public Health Preparedness Manager Salary Expectations

A Public Health Preparedness Manager earns an average salary of $70,000 (USD) per year.

This salary can vary based on factors such as years of experience in the field, education level, and the specific location of the job.

Some top earners in this position can make up to $90,000 annually.

 

Public Health Preparedness Manager Job Description FAQs

What are the primary duties of a Public Health Preparedness Manager?

A Public Health Preparedness Manager’s main duties include coordinating and overseeing emergency preparedness programs, developing plans for public health emergencies, training staff, and working with various public and private stakeholders.

They also monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of emergency response plans, continually improving them to ensure the community’s safety.

 

What qualifications are needed for a Public Health Preparedness Manager?

The minimum qualifications for a Public Health Preparedness Manager often include a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Emergency Management, or a related field.

Most positions also require several years of experience in public health or emergency preparedness.

Some employers may require certification in public health or emergency management.

 

What qualities make a good Public Health Preparedness Manager?

A good Public Health Preparedness Manager should be a strategic thinker with excellent decision-making abilities.

They should have strong leadership and management skills, the ability to work well under pressure, and excellent communication skills to liaise with different stakeholders effectively.

They should also be well-versed in public health principles and emergency management practices.

 

What should you look for in a Public Health Preparedness Manager resume?

Look for a mix of relevant education and field experience.

A degree in Public Health or Emergency Management is a strong start, but practical experience in public health, emergency preparedness, or disaster response is also crucial.

Certifications in related areas can be a plus.

Additionally, proven leadership experience, project management skills, and the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders are key factors to consider.

 

Is it challenging to hire a Public Health Preparedness Manager?

Finding a qualified Public Health Preparedness Manager can indeed be challenging due to the specific expertise and experience required for the role.

It’s important to offer competitive compensation and show potential candidates how their role is vital to public health and safety, making it a fulfilling and meaningful career choice.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the intricacies of what it means to be a Public Health Preparedness Manager.

Guess what?

It’s not just about managing emergencies.

It’s about safeguarding our society’s health, one preparedness plan at a time.

With our comprehensive Public Health Preparedness Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on this meaningful journey.

But why pause here?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool to create detailed job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every preparedness strategy is a part of a larger health security framework.

Let’s protect that future. Together.

How to Become a Public Health Preparedness Manager (Complete Guide)

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