Detection and Response Coordinator

Job Description

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Under general supervision of Surveillance, Assessment, and Evaluation's Special Projects Manager, serves as the Cluster Detection and Outbreak Response Coordinator under CDC and HRSA's Ending the HIV Epidemic Initiatives. This position is tasked with rapid coordination of cluster activities to include: Routine analysis of sequencing data for detection of new clusters, Rapid entry and initiation of detected clusters into appropriate databases, Coordinates cluster data between central office and response teams; Assists with core surveillance activities, as applicable. Data generated by this staff member is utilized by the CDC, DPH, health care providers, and policy makers for making decisions on prevention and treatment programs needed at the local, state, and national level.

• Conducts routine analysis of sequencing data to detect new clusters, rapidly enter cluster data into the appropriate database for monitoring follow-up for detected local and national clusters; Complete cluster worksheets and case report forms and monitor cases for closure;

• Coordinates the review of newly detected clusters of interests with Field Operations Managers, Surveillance Managers, and DIS Consultants to determine outbreak status, staff and resource allocation, and case prioritize for rapid response; Tracks, monitors, and alerts supervisor of risk network growth identified through review of partner services, provider, or outreach follow-up; Organizes and assists with facilitating Molecular HIV and Cluster Detection and Response meetings. Notates and summarizes information from the meetings and disseminate among the group; Assists with grant preparation (CDC prevention and surveillance grants, HRSA services grants, and required progress reports) and the development of guidelines, manuals, and procedures, assists with coordination of staff across STD/HIV/VH program areas to design, update, and maintain the Cluster Detection and Outbreak Response plan;

• Conducts record searches to ensure complete case ascertainment for multi-state molecular clusters and determines risk network, updates the appropriate data systems to ensure case completion, Schedules and conducts deduplication interstate calls to assist with core surveillance duties as assigned;

• Participates in disaster preparedness activities as outlined in the DHEC plan during hazardous weather or declaration of emergency. During such times, the employee is designated as essential and may be subject to 24-hour duty and/or on call status.

State Minimum Requirements: A high school diploma and relevant program experience.

Any equivalent combination of education and/or experience that demonstrates the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered in meeting the minimum qualifications, subject to approval by the DPH Chief Human Resources Officer, or their delegate.

Applicants indicating college credit or degree(s) on the application may upload an unofficial copy of the transcript as an attachment to the application. Please note that the agency will require an official, certified copy of the transcript or diploma prior to hiring. Institutions of Higher Learning must be recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

A bachelor's degree and relevant program experience. Knowledge of infectious disease etiology. At least three (3) years of data management and public health experience. Experience in HIV/STD or other communicable diseases. Experience in security and confidentiality of Protected Health Information.
EEO: The Department of Public Health is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions including, but not limited, to lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, or genetic information.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION: Applicants needing accommodation for medical reasons or a sincerely held religious belief may submit a request for accommodation. A reasonable accommodation may be granted if it doesn't impose an undue hardship or pose a direct threat to the health and safety of others.
STATE DISASTER PLAN: In accordance with the State's Disaster Plan, which includes hazardous weather, Department of Public Health employees may be required to work in times of an emergency or disaster.
DRIVING RECORD: If this position requires the applicant to possess a valid driver's license to operate a state vehicle or personal vehicle, any applicant being considered in the final stages of selection for the position will be required to provide a certified copy of a 10-year driving record.

The South Carolina Department of Public Health offers an exceptional benefits package for Temporary Grant positions that includes:

• 15 days Annual (Vacation) Leave per year

• 15 days Sick Leave per year

• 13 Paid Holidays

• Health, dental, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance for employees, spouse, and children. Click here for additional information.

• S.C. Deferred Compensation Program available (S.C. Deferred Compensation)

• Retirement benefit choices *
• State Retirement Plan (SCRS)

• State Optional Retirement Program (State ORP)

* Enrollment in one of the listed plans is required for all FTE employees; please refer to the contribution section of hyperlinked retirement sites for the current contribution rate of gross pay.
HYBRID WORK: The option to work partially remote or adjusted work hours may be available after 12 months of employment for approved positions.