Public Health Project Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s health-focused world, the role of Public Health Project Managers is more critical than ever.

As global health issues evolve, the demand for skilled professionals who can plan, monitor, and manage public health initiatives continues to rise.

But what exactly does a Public Health Project Manager do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the dynamics of public health project management,

You’ve come to the right place.

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

Let’s dive right into it.

Public Health Project Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Public Health Project Managers are responsible for planning and overseeing specific projects related to public health, such as health improvement initiatives, disease control programs, and health policy development.

They work closely with a team of health professionals and stakeholders to ensure the project’s success.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Planning and defining the scope of public health projects
• Developing full-scale project plans and associated communication documents
• Managing project’s budget and ensuring resources are allocated effectively
• Effectively communicating project expectations to team members and stakeholders
• Liaising with project stakeholders on an ongoing basis
• Coordinating the efforts of team members and third-party contractors or consultants in order to deliver projects according to plan
• Monitoring project progress, addressing any issues that arise and ensuring the project is on track and within budget
• Preparing project reports for stakeholders and funders
• Ensuring all projects comply with health regulations and laws
• Evaluating the outcomes of the project as established during the planning phase

 

Public Health Project Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Public Health Project Manager to oversee the planning, implementation, and tracking of various public health projects.

This role will include devising project plans, communicating with stakeholders, and ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.

The ideal candidate will be experienced in the field of public health, have excellent organizational and communication skills, and a proven track record in project management.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed project plans, including goals, timelines, and budgets
• Coordinate with internal teams and external partners to ensure project objectives are met
• Monitor project progress and make necessary adjustments to ensure successful completion
• Prepare and present reports outlining project status to stakeholders
• Ensure all project activities comply with regulations and standards
• Identify and manage potential risks and issues
• Organize and lead project meetings with stakeholders
• Ensure project deliverables are high quality and meet project standards
• Maintain an awareness of latest developments in public health

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a project manager, preferably in the public health sector
• Knowledge of project management methodologies and software tools
• Strong leadership and organizational skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
• Ability to work in a team and to build and maintain effective relationships
• BSc/BA in public health, health administration, project management, or a relevant field; MSc/MA will be a plus
• Certification in project management, such as PMP or PRINCE2, is preferred

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Public Health Project Manager
• Work Environment: This role may require occasional travel for community meetings or conferences. Remote work options are available.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Public Health Programs.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 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 Project Manager Do?

Public Health Project Managers are responsible for overseeing the planning, implementation, and tracking of public health projects.

This can include projects related to disease control, health education, or community health initiatives.

They often work for public health departments, nonprofit organizations, or healthcare facilities.

Their primary duties involve identifying project goals, developing detailed project plans, and managing all project tasks and responsibilities.

They are responsible for ensuring that the project meets its objectives on time and within budget.

Public Health Project Managers work closely with a variety of stakeholders, including public health officials, health care providers, community leaders, and the public.

They may also coordinate with other organizations or agencies to leverage resources and maximize impact.

They are responsible for monitoring the progress of the project, managing risks and issues, and making necessary adjustments to ensure the project’s success.

They may also be involved in grant writing or fundraising to secure project funding.

Public Health Project Managers play a crucial role in evaluating the effectiveness of public health interventions and implementing improvements based on these evaluations.

They use their expertise in public health principles and project management to improve community health outcomes.

 

Public Health Project Manager Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Public Health Project Manager should have the skills and qualifications that align with the job description, such as:

• Experience in public health or a related field to understand the specific needs and challenges of public health projects.
• Project management skills to plan, execute, control and close projects within the allocated time and budget.
• Exceptional communication skills to coordinate with team members, stakeholders, and the public, as well as to present reports and explain complex health concepts in an understandable way.
• Problem-solving and decision-making skills to address issues that arise during the project and make important decisions related to the project’s implementation and execution.
• Analytical skills to assess public health data, monitor project progress, and evaluate project outcomes.
• Leadership skills to guide and motivate the project team, deal with conflicts, and ensure a positive working environment.
• Financial management skills to manage the project budget, ensure cost-effectiveness, and secure funding when necessary.
• Familiarity with public health laws and regulations to ensure the project complies with the necessary legal and ethical standards.

 

Public Health Project Manager Experience Requirements

Public Health Project Managers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in public health, healthcare administration, or a related field, with some pursuing a master’s degree for further specialization.

Entry-level candidates in this field usually have 1 to 3 years of experience in public health or healthcare administration.

This could be gained through internships, part-time roles, or in a role such as Health Educator, Health Services Manager, or Community Health Worker.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have a strong understanding of project management principles, gained through hands-on experience in public health projects.

They may have also developed technical skills in data analysis, health policy development, health promotion campaigns, or health education programs.

Those with more than 5 years of experience often have substantial leadership experience, having managed small to medium-sized public health projects.

They are likely to be well-versed in strategic planning, budget management, and team leadership, and may be ready for larger-scale projects or leadership roles within a public health organization.

In addition to the above, a successful Public Health Project Manager should have experience with stakeholder management, as they frequently collaborate with government agencies, healthcare providers, community leaders, and the public.

They should also have a strong understanding of regulatory compliance and public health laws, gained through practical experience in the field.

 

Public Health Project Manager Education and Training Requirements

Public Health Project Managers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in public health, health administration, or another related field.

An understanding of healthcare systems, health policy, and epidemiology is crucial for this role.

Many employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree in public health (MPH) or health administration (MHA).

These advanced degree programs provide training in health services management, strategic planning, and policy-making.

In addition to academic qualifications, public health project managers should have knowledge of project management principles and practices.

Certification as a Project Management Professional (PMP) can be an asset, although not a requirement for all positions.

To succeed in this role, individuals must have strong leadership abilities, good communication skills, and experience in managing teams.

The ability to work with data and use statistical software can also be beneficial.

Continuing education is important in this field, and ongoing training in health policy, data analysis, and current public health issues is recommended.

 

Public Health Project Manager Salary Expectations

A Public Health Project Manager earns an average salary of $72,000 (USD) per year.

The actual salary can vary significantly based on the complexity of projects, years of experience, education level, and geographical location.

 

Public Health Project Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Public Health Project Manager need?

A Public Health Project Manager should possess effective communication and leadership skills, as they often lead teams and liaise with stakeholders.

They should have excellent planning and organizational skills, and be adept at managing resources and time.

They should also possess knowledge in the field of public health and stay updated with latest trends and technologies in the field.

Analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities are crucial to address unexpected issues during project execution.

 

Do Public Health Project Managers need a degree?

Yes, a bachelor’s degree in public health, health administration, or a related field is often required for this role.

Some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree in public health or health administration.

In addition to this, experience in project management and a certification from a recognized project management body, such as the Project Management Institute (PMI), can be beneficial.

 

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

A Public Health Project Manager resume should highlight their educational background in public health or a related field, as well as any certifications in project management.

The resume should also outline their experience in managing public health projects, including the scope, budget, and outcomes of these projects.

Key skills such as leadership, communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills should also be evident.

 

What qualities make a good Public Health Project Manager?

A good Public Health Project Manager is passionate about improving public health and is able to lead and inspire a team.

They are detail-oriented, ensuring that every aspect of a project is planned and executed effectively.

They have strong problem-solving skills, allowing them to overcome challenges that arise during a project.

Furthermore, they are excellent communicators, capable of liaising with various stakeholders and presenting information in a clear and concise manner.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Public Health Project Manager?

The difficulty in hiring a Public Health Project Manager largely depends on the specific requirements of the position and the candidate pool available.

However, given the specialized skills and experience required for this role, finding the right candidate can be challenging.

It’s important to offer a competitive package and clearly communicate the impact of their role in public health to attract motivated and qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we delved into the crucial role of a Public Health Project Manager.

Intriguing, isn’t it?

It’s not only about planning and executing health initiatives.

It’s about shaping the future of public health, one project at a time.

With our essential Public Health Project Manager job description template and real-life examples, you’re fully equipped to take the next step.

But why stop here?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate guide for creating meticulous job listings or enhancing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every health project contributes to the larger goal of public welfare.

Let’s create a healthier future. Together.

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

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