The Disease Intervention Specialist (DIS) is responsible for conducting all aspects of STI investigations under the direction of the STI HIV Prevention Program Manager (PM). Work includes disease counseling and individualized education, referrals for additional care such as testing and treatment, partner elicitation and notification, and related administrative services to support the program as well as assisting with other department staff in conducting case investigations. The DIS is a non-licensed public health professional with applied expertise in client-centered interviews, collection of enhanced surveillance and community assessment data, partner services to include contract tracing; field investigation and other field-based activities including specimen collection, directly observed therapy, community outreach, collaboration with medical providers, and navigation of health care systems to ensure patient evaluation and treatment. Relevant program areas can include HIV, STD/STI, TB, and other communicable diseases, outbreak investigation and emergency preparedness and response, as well as Harm Reduction Syringe Services.

The Public Health department values our community’s diversity and seeks ways to promote equity and inclusion within the organization and with the public. Public Health department also encourages applications from candidates with knowledge, ability and experience working with a broad range of individuals and communities with diverse racial, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds.

This is a full-time represented position, and is represented by Local 335.

This is a hybrid/remote position, however, the candidate selected must reside in OR or WA. No Exceptions.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:
High school diploma or GED equivalent and two (2) years of experience, training, or applicable community experience in counseling or health outreach.

Must have or be able to obtain Washington State Medical Assistant – Phlebotomist certification within first year of hire.

Some positions may require oral and written fluency in both English and the language of the community being served.

Any satisfactory combination of education, experience and training which ensures the ability to perform the work will be considered.

 
Knowledge of:
Principles, policies, procedures, methods, and techniques specific to infectious disease control, prevention, and public health; principles and practices of field investigation; interviewing and motivational counseling techniques and principles; confidentiality guidelines; communicable disease etiology, manifestations, progression, diagnosis, and treatment; medical and drug terminology; laboratory testing procedures; lab report analysis for infectious diseases; epidemiology, contact investigation, tracing, and notification of communicable diseases; all types of sexually transmitted diseases, particularly reportable sexually transmitted diseases: Harm reduction principles; their health effects, methods of transmission, prevention, treatment, and effect on families and social institutions; availability of community resources and methods to ensure that patients are linked to care; record keeping procedures and basic statistical methods; personal safety techniques.

 
Ability to:
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, clients, and the public; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; work independently; relate to a wide variety of people of varying ages, socioeconomic backgrounds and needs; apply concepts of cultural sensitivity; maintain records; operate computer software and other office equipment; follow written and verbal instructions; prepare and present written materials and oral presentations for the public.

 
Other Requirements

• Successful completion of Disease Intervention Specialist national certification within 12 months of hire (if applicable).
• Must adhere to OSHA/WISHA guidelines, including but not limited to timely completion of mandatory trainings.
• Some positions may require verbal and/or written proficiency in a second language.
• Must successfully pass a criminal history background check which may include state or national fingerprint records check, pursuant to RCW 43.43.830.
• Driving is required for County business on a regular basis or to accomplish work. Incumbents must possess a valid driver’s license and possess and maintain current auto insurance and an acceptable driving record throughout the course of employment.