Supervisor (Surveillance Entomologist)

Agency: Harris County Public Health Services
Location: Houston, TX
Job Category: Full Time Positions
Last Date to Apply: April 26, 2020
Website: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/harriscountytx/jobs/2756763/supervisor-surveillance-entomologist-mvc?fbclid=IwAR0UGPl4zjIW-nf7Jp9lefrARemqTLocgicxzQl7_dJtMy7gftrn4J3b9qo
Description: Position Description Under the supervision of the Mosquito and Vector Control Technical Operations Manager, the Surveillance Entomologists' function is to supervise the daily operations of the Mosquito Surveillance section, collaborate activities alongside the Avian surveillance, Vector Surveillance and Virology sections, and to disseminate data in an accurate and timely manner to guide in the management and control of arbovirus diseases. Duties and Responsibilities: Supervisory/ Management Supervises employees in the mosquito surveillance section in accordance with Harris County Public Health (HCPH) Department Policies and Procedures. Monitors employee job performance and time management for assigned tasks. Trains employees in mosquito surveillance techniques including; site surveys, operation of collection devices, handling various trapping media, and laboratory preparation, processing and storage of specimen. Trains employees in the identification of larvae and adult mosquitoes from other arthropods. Provides employees with the necessary knowledge and skill to process specimen (sort, identify, sex, and pool) for arbovirus testing. Works towards understanding and applying the principles of Health Equity and achieve the goals of HCPH. Administration Produces and disseminates mosquito surveillance activity reports both as requested. Participates in Mosquito Control Vector Division (MCVD) Management Team meetings for operational, decision-making, and implementation process. Performs quality assurance and quality control of the mosquito surveillance laboratory. Maintains the surveillance database and ensure the accuracy of the quality of reports generated. Attends and presents at professional meetings and seminars as appropriate. Communicates and disseminates surveillance information inter and intra departmentally as well as with stakeholders. Provides budgetary oversite for the mosquito surveillance section. Monitors the use and maintenance of surveillance field and laboratory equipment. Laboratory Collaborates with Technical Operations Branch Manager to determine mosquito species priority for virus testing based on past and current disease transmission history. Procures supplies and equipment for the smooth operations of mosquito surveillance. Ensures mosquito specimen collected are accurately identified and processed for arbovirus testing. Monitors database to ensure data is entered according to the mosquito surveillance requirements. Works closely with the Virology Laboratory on the smooth and accurate transfer of pooled specimen. Keeps abreast with operations and maintenance of all -80oF freezers. Field/Other Develops and tests innovative surveillance techniques and equipment for arbovirus diseases. Monitors field activities to ensure they are carried out within scientific guidelines. Conducts and trains direct reports on conducting environmental surveys for trap sites. Plans and organizes weekly routes schedules for smooth operation of trapping process. Provides professional guidance, knowledge, and assistance to the Test and Evaluation section, Inspections, Source Reduction and Health education section in surveillance operations. Assists the Avian and Vector surveillance section with field activities (dead bird collection/ ticks and kissing bugs collection) when necessary. Performs other duties as assigned, including special tasks involved in responding to an emergency event.
Qualifications: Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net Requirements Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Entomology, Biology, Public Health, or science-related field from an accredited college or university; and Four (4) years of work experience in an organized mosquito control program. Three (3) years of experience in a supervisory capacity. Basic data entry skills, and working knowledge of Internet use, Microsoft Windows, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Excellent working knowledge of general biology, larval and adult identifications, and mosquito-borne disease surveillance and prevention. Valid driver's license (Texas upon hire), reliable transportation and good driving record. NOTE: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge and skills must be clearly stated on your application's employment history. Resumes are welcome, but we do not use any information provided on your resume to qualify and refer you to the Hiring Department for consideration. Preferences Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Entomology, Biology, Public Health, or science-related field from an accredited college or university. General Information HOURS: 40 Hours per Week LOCATION: Houston SALARY: Commensurate with Experience Based on 26 Pay Periods Additional Information - Core Competencies: Organizational Leadership Understands the organizational mission Understands ethics and public good; is concerned with public trust Demonstrates respect for the opinions and beliefs of others Collaboration Demonstrates a sense of responsibility for the success of the group Collaborates with others to improve quality and address needs Establishes collaborative relationships and projects Innovation Ability to adapt to change Interpersonal Abilities/Personal Characteristics Uses sound judgement Self-motivated Organizes and maintains work environment to allow for maximum productivity Communication Communicates clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing Written and verbal English competency Able to read and follow directions Comfortable with public speaking and outreach Good customers service attributes
Job Number: 165