Health Counselor

Job Duties Bold and catalytic, the Norfolk Department of Public Health is transforming the health landscape of our community through groundbreaking initiatives and strategic partnerships. We are committed to fostering a culture of radical collaboration, excellence, inclusivity, and resilience. We believe that our employees are our greatest asset, and we are dedicated to providing a supportive and dynamic work environment where your skills and passion can make a catalytic impact. If you are ready to contribute to meaningful change and be part of a forward-thinking organization, NDPH is the place for you. Health Counselor- Disease Intervention Specialist is responsible for independently identifying and contacting persons known or suspected of being exposed to or at high risk of exposure to communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, syphilis, gonorrhea, HIV/AIDS, and others. Duties include alerting people to their health risks, behavior changes needed to reduce risks to the individual or to others, resources and methods available to treat and control the disease as well as to contain further transmission of disease. Follows up on contacts to determine if they have received treatment, changed their behavior to reduce health risk, and procured other available services as necessary to ensure improved health care. The Virginia Department of Health offers 12 paid holidays, medical, dental, vision and lifeinsurance, retirement plans (including 401a Cash Match and 457 Deferred Compensation Plan) as well as sick, family/personal, and annual leave. Minimum Qualifications • Knowledge and experience in public health practices, HIV, STIs (e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis), HBV/HCV, and other communicable diseases; experience performing phlebotomy.• Previous work experience indicating the ability to listen, understand and empathize in a culturally sensitive manner, and use motivational skills to build rapport with clients and engagement in disease intervention services; ability to work with diverse populations in diverse settings; develop and make presentations.• Demonstrated work experience showing ability to recognize, analyze and solve problems; perform basic mathematical calculations; conduct accurate data entry; maintain confidentiality; comply with program and data security policies and procedures; and work independently during various hours and settings (e.g., field, non-clinical and clinical, office).• Experience working under pressure (e.g., meeting deadlines, managing competing priorities).• Prior case management experience; basic computer knowledge/skills, including word processing, electronic mail and data base management.• Effective oral and written communication; organizational; and decision-making skills; bilingual skills are beneficial. Additional Considerations • Experience working in a social service, public health, or healthcare environment. • Work experience using VEDSS and eHARS.• Prior experience working with sensitive medical documents. Special Instructions You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position. Contact Information Name: Carolyn Abron Phone: 757-805-5283 Email: Carolyn.Abron-ov In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter.