Dept of State Health Services Hiring for Data Entry Job at Harlingen, TX Full Time

Works under the direction and supervision of the Regional Epidemiologist under close supervision and minimal latitude for use of initiative and independent judgement. Performs entry-level data analysis and data research work. Cross trained in data gathering, survey formation and conducting detailed analysis, researching data and providing results in non-COVID, COVID-19 and other novel and notifiable infectious diseases that affect Public Health Region 11. Responsible for monitoring data to ensure the integrity and user competency. Produces template and technical reports for data interpretation.

Actively participates and/or serves in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation.

Essential Job Functions:
(45%) Collects epidemiological data, enters into electronic systems and assures quality of data entry into the National Electronic Disease Surveillance System (NEDSS), Electric Health Records, Qualtrics, syndromic surveillance and other disease surveillance databases. Responsible for disease entry within 30 days of report and within the recommendations of CDC and DSHS. Compiles and queries data related to non-COVID, COVID-19 and other novel and notifiable infectious diseases that affect Public Health Region 11. Cleans and prunes entered data and performs quality assurance and standard checks. Verifies entries into forms and databases. Responsible for monitoring data to ensure the integrity and user competency by assembling reports of data quality issues for training and remediation purposes. Consults and collaborates with coworkers to identify discrepancies and ensure a consistent and clear communication on data management. Resolves duplicate records and corrects data, as needed. Develops methods for mitigating data issues and deploys those methods to correct them. Maintains a working log of infectious disease cases in the region.

(30%) Produces report templates and technical reports for data interpretation, justifies recommendations on data revision using Word, Access, Epi Info, Excel and/or PowerPoint, SAS, etc. May assist in identifying and interpreting data patterns and trends and assessing data quality. Analyzes data using standard statistical tools, methods, and techniques, justifies recommendation on data revision; and interprets results to identify significant differences. Consults with internal and external customers to identify user needs and identifies and recommends alternatives. Identifies issues in reports or outcomes and contacts the correct people to remedy those issues. May assist in brainstorming and developing methods for mitigating data issues and deploys those methods to correct issues. Assists in establishing and maintaining standard operating procedures related to the appropriate use of data.

(10%) Responds to unique requests for written and verbal assignments. May assist in identifying and interpreting data patterns and trends and assessing data quality. May present technical findings to tailored audiences and collaborate with other regional programs to identify and resolve data issues and needs. May conduct research to complete assigned tasks.

(15%) Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift in assignment/location.

Knowledge Skills Abilities:

Knowledge of statistics, statistical methods and analyzing data sets and record keeping.

Knowledge of running queries, report writing, and presenting findings.

Knowledge of security procedures for handling, protecting, and distributing confidential data.

Knowledge of principles of epidemiology and Texas public health laws, especially those that govern the control and reporting of notifiable conditions, preferred.

Knowledge of medical terminology and transmission of infectious diseases, preferred.

Skill in the use of a computer and applicable software, word processing, databases, spreadsheets-statistical, mapping and graphics software packages including Word, Outlook, ArcGIS, Access, Excel, EpiInfo, SPSS, SAS, PowerPoint.

Skill in conducting data searches, in evaluating and translating large amounts of data, and in critical thinking.

Skill in developing presentations on statistical and technical data clearly and concisely.

Skill in writing and editing.

Ability to compile, review, and analyze data.

Ability in preparing reports.

Ability in maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.

Ability to organize and prioritize workload.

Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, management and public health communities.

Registration or Licensure Requirements:
Texas Class C driver license or equivalent from another state.

Initial Selection Criteria:
Applicants must clearly state how they meet each of the required initial screening criteria below.

1. Graduation from an accredited four year college or university with major coursework in data science, business analytics, computer science, computer information systems, management information systems, accounting, finance, mathematics, statistics or related field. (Experience and education may be substituted for one another).

2. Minimum 1 year of experience in data entry.

3. Experience in oral communication (communicating with customers via telephone, staff meetings, public presentations)

4. Experience in written communication(composing emails, business letters or reports)

5. Experience using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook and Power Point).

Additional Information:
This position has the ability to telework up to 2-3 days/wk but will be required to come into the office location on an as needed basis. Selected candidates must have the ability to provide personal home internet service and must also have a home office location free from distractions that will provide the ability to ensure confidentiality in the workplace.

Applicants must complete the required assessment associated with this job posting to be considered for this position.

Applicants invited to an interview will be required to complete a skills test/in-basket exercise.

This position may require travel up to 10% of the time and may require hours outside of the normal 8:00am to 5:00pm work schedule.

Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

Salary Note: The salary offered will follow DSHS starting salary guidelines. Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds.

The applicant selected for this position will need to maintain compliance with DSHS Immunization Policy.

Ten Tips for Applying to DSHS Jobs:

1. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the State of Texas Application.

2. Review your preferences for travel, shift, location, etc. with the requirements on the job posting.

3. Describe how you meet each initial screening criterion.

4. Don’t leave any field blank on the application.

5. Accurately reflect your work experience and dates of employment in the employment history section.

6. Sign your application.

7. Once you submit your application it cannot be changed and you cannot submit more than one application for a position.

8. Review and update your application for each new position.

9. Ensure you complete any required assessments.

10. You can check the status of your application anytime through the HHS Jobs Center.

Help is available through the HHS Employee Service Center. See the Top 10 Tips for Success when Applying to Jobs at HHSC and DSHS link below for more information.

MOS Code:
Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include but are not limited to: 68S, 60C, HM, 230X, 4E0X1, 43HX, 43MX, 43EX. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at http://www.hr.sao.state.tx.us/compensation/jobdescriptions.aspx

HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.

I-9 Form – Click here to download the I-9 form.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

Top 10 Tips for Success when Applying to Jobs at HHSC and DSHS