Public Health Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In this age of global health awareness, the role of Public Health Specialists has never been more crucial.

As health issues evolve and public consciousness increases, the demand for skilled professionals who can design, implement, and maintain comprehensive public health strategies grows.

But let’s dive deeper: What’s truly expected from a Public Health Specialist?

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 complex field of public health,

You’re in the right place.

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

Let’s get started.

Public Health Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Public Health Specialists work to improve the overall health and wellness of communities and populations.

They employ their knowledge of health sciences to develop and implement initiatives and policies that promote health and prevent diseases.

Their key duties and responsibilities include:

• Conducting health needs assessments within various communities
• Developing and implementing public health policies and programs
• Communicating health information to the public, health professionals, and policymakers
• Monitoring and analyzing health trends and identifying potential health risks
• Collaborating with other health professionals, organizations, and government agencies
• Evaluating and improving the effectiveness of public health programs
• Conducting research to further knowledge in various public health issues
• Preparing reports on public health findings and trends
• Promoting healthy behaviors and disease prevention methods
• Providing education and training to community members and health professionals

 

Public Health Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Public Health Specialist to join our team.

This role involves designing, implementing, and managing health programs, conducting research, and providing education on public health issues.

Public Health Specialist responsibilities include analyzing data to determine community health needs, working with health educators and other healthcare professionals to develop effective programs, and advocating for improved health resources and policies.

Our ideal candidate has a thorough understanding of the public health field, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to communicate complex health information effectively.

 

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement health programs and initiatives
• Analyze data to identify public health needs and challenges
• Collaborate with health educators, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders
• Develop policies and procedures to improve public health outcomes
• Provide education on health issues to the community
• Conduct community outreach to promote public health initiatives
• Contribute to research efforts in public health
• Prepare reports on health program effectiveness
• Keep informed of developments in public health

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Public Health Specialist or similar role
• Knowledge of public health principles and practices
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Ability to educate and inform the public on health matters
• Proficient in data analysis and statistical software
• Master’s degree in Public Health or related field is required

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Public Health Specialist
• Work Environment: Office setting with occasional fieldwork. Some travel may be required for meetings or community visits.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Public Health or Public Health Manager.
• 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 a Public Health Specialist Do?

Public Health Specialists work in government agencies, non-profit organizations, healthcare facilities, or private companies.

They focus on improving and maintaining the health of a community or population.

They conduct and analyze public health surveys, investigations, and research to understand the current health trends and issues within a specific community.

They help in planning, implementing, and evaluating programs that address these health issues.

This could include disease prevention programs, health promotion initiatives, or community education about health risks and healthy behaviors.

Public Health Specialists also play a significant role in policy development, advocating for public health regulations and laws that can improve and protect community health.

They often collaborate with various stakeholders including medical professionals, government officials, and community leaders to promote health and wellness in the community.

In the event of public health emergencies, such as disease outbreaks or natural disasters, they aid in coordinating responses and recovery efforts.

Overall, the job of a Public Health Specialist is to use their expertise to promote health, prevent disease, and improve the quality of life for individuals and communities.

 

Public Health Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A Public Health Specialist should have the skills and qualifications that are necessary for promoting and protecting the health of individuals and communities, such as:

• An understanding of the basic principles of public health, epidemiology, and biostatistics to help analyze and interpret disease patterns and health trends in communities.
• Strong analytical skills to conduct and interpret quantitative and qualitative health research, and evaluate public health programs.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with community partners, deliver health education programs, and advocate for public health policies.
• Knowledge of health informatics and data management systems to collect, analyze, and report health data.
• Problem-solving and critical thinking skills to design and implement public health strategies that address complex health issues.
• Project management skills to plan and manage public health initiatives, ensuring they are carried out efficiently and effectively.
• Understanding of the health impacts of social and economic conditions, and the ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
• Awareness of current issues and trends in public health, and the ability to adapt strategies to changing circumstances and emerging health threats.
• Knowledge of legal and ethical issues related to public health practice.

 

Public Health Specialist Experience Requirements

For entry-level positions as a Public Health Specialist, employers often require a minimum of 1 to 2 years of experience in the public health sector.

This experience could be gained through internships, part-time roles, or volunteer work in community health settings, healthcare agencies or non-profit organizations.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience, often have additional expertise in areas such as health education, health policy, epidemiology, or environmental health.

They may have gained this experience working in roles such as Health Educator, Health Policy Analyst, Epidemiologist, or Environmental Health Specialist.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are usually considered for senior or managerial roles.

They often have a strong background in leading public health programs, managing health projects, and conducting health research.

In addition, they may have experience in strategic planning, budgeting, and staff supervision in a public health setting.

Regardless of the level, experience working with diverse populations, understanding of public health regulations and laws, and ability to use health data for decision making are highly valued in a Public Health Specialist.

 

Public Health Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Public Health Specialists are generally required to have a bachelor’s degree in public health, epidemiology, or a related field.

The coursework for these degrees often includes classes in health services management, community health, health promotion, and disease prevention.

Additionally, they should also have a strong background in biology, statistics, and social sciences, as these fields are essential for understanding the spread and prevention of diseases.

Some positions, especially those involving research or administrative roles, may require candidates to hold a master’s degree in public health (MPH) or a related discipline.

Public Health Specialists may also benefit from obtaining certifications from recognized bodies such as the National Board of Public Health Examiners (NBPHE).

This certification can demonstrate a candidate’s competence and dedication to the field.

It’s also recommended for Public Health Specialists to continually improve their skills and knowledge through ongoing training and professional development courses.

These may cover areas like health policy, health informatics, community health, and emergency preparedness.

In addition, a solid understanding of governmental and healthcare policies, as well as good communication skills, are crucial for this role.

 

Public Health Specialist Salary Expectations

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

However, the actual earnings can significantly vary depending on factors such as the level of experience, education, geographical location, and the specific organization that they are working for.

 

Public Health Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Public Health Specialist need?

Public Health Specialists should possess strong analytical skills to examine and interpret public health data.

They should also have excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively interact with different stakeholders and present their findings.

Being culturally sensitive and aware of social determinants of health is also essential for this role.

 

Do Public Health Specialists need a degree?

Yes, a Public Health Specialist typically needs at least a bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Health Education, or a related field.

However, many employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree in Public Health or a closely related field.

Some positions may also require specific certifications or licenses.

 

What should you look for in a Public Health Specialist resume?

Apart from the required educational qualifications, look for experience in public health research, program management, or community health outreach.

Knowledge of public health laws and regulations, proficiency in data analysis, and experience working with diverse populations can be strong assets.

Any additional certifications like Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) can also be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Public Health Specialist?

A good Public Health Specialist is passionate about improving community health and reducing health disparities.

They should be detail-oriented to ensure accuracy in data collection and interpretation.

Good interpersonal skills are important to collaborate with different stakeholders, and problem-solving skills are critical to devise effective public health strategies.

 

What are the daily duties of a Public Health Specialist?

A typical day for a Public Health Specialist may involve researching and analyzing data to identify public health trends, developing and implementing public health programs, and educating the public about health issues.

They may also spend time liaising with community organizations, healthcare providers, or government agencies, and preparing reports on their findings.

 

Is it difficult to hire Public Health Specialists?

The difficulty in hiring Public Health Specialists largely depends on the specific qualifications and experience you require.

Since this field is quite specialized, finding candidates with the right combination of education, experience, and passion for public health can sometimes be challenging.

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

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve demystified the role of a public health specialist.

Surprised?

It’s not just about disease prevention and health promotion.

It’s about shaping a healthier future, one community at a time.

With our tailor-made public health specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to take the next step.

But why not go a step further?

Explore more with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for precision-crafted job listings or perfecting your resume.

Remember:

Every health initiative is part of a larger vision.

Let’s create a healthier future. Together.

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