Department of Health
LAST DAY FOR FILING: July 15, 2026
EOE
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: This position involves responsibility for the organization, coordination, implementation and evaluation of community based educational programs to meet public health needs utilizing the concepts of public health prevention including public information, referral, community education and outreach. The incumbent applies the principles of behavioral sciences in public health programs to foster the voluntary adaptation of behavior to improve or maintain health. The work may concentrate on one major health issue or on several major issues. The work is performed under administrative supervision by the Director of Public Health with leeway allowed for the use of independent judgment in carrying out the details of the work. This position differs from that of the Public Health Educator by increased responsibility for the improvement and coordination of an educational program or programs. Supervision may be exercised over Public Health Educators or program related staff. The incumbent does related work as required.
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES: (Illustrative only)
- Administers public health education grants by researching available sources, developing and managing grants and submitting action plans and other reporting requirements;
- Assists Director of Public Health in directing the planning and evaluating of community based public health education programs;
- Researches and identifies evidence-based programs to be used in a variety of community sectors;
- Applies policy concepts to use in a variety of community sectors regarding specific health topics;
- Keeps abreast of current legislation and best practice programming and methods and promotes their use within the community;
- Compiles required New York State Department of Health program reports and prepares a variety of records and correspondence related to the work;
- Develops public health educational materials including pamphlets, posters, exhibits, power point, and audio-visual presentation;
- Coordinates community based public health education programs/activities with those of related agencies and community groups providing training and distributing program information;
- Coordinates community outreach and educational services regarding positive health behaviors and reducing chronic disease risks factors;
- Coordinates outreach efforts for better utilization of existing health services;
- Applies and assists in the development and implementation of program evaluation tools conducted in the local community to determine effectiveness;
- Represents the Department of Health on community-based committees and other related organizations as required;
- Prepares press releases and responds to media requests with direction from the Director of Public Health;
- Monitors program goals and objectives, compiles and analyzes data, and completes all required paperwork and reports;
- Participates in training for Incident Command system, emergency response drills, and responds to community emergencies/disasters as part of the public health response;
- May supervise work of Public Health Educators or program related staff;
- Participates in leadership activities including orientation of new staff and participates in teams addressing work improvement projects;
- Performs other duties as required.
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Thorough knowledge of the basic principles, practices and techniques of public health education; thorough knowledge of health related issues; through knowledge of educational principles, techniques and methods of communication; working knowledge of data collection procedures and ability to survey public health education needs; working knowledge of the grant application process and monitoring; ability to establish and maintain cooperative relations with community agencies and different ethnic groups; ability to understand and empathize with the needs and concerns of others; ability to organize, motivate and facilitate diverse groups; ability to exercise good judgment, initiative and resourcefulness; integrity and tact.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Graduation from a regionally accredited college or university or one accredited by the New York State Board of Regents to grant degrees with a Master’s degree or higher in public health or health education and two (2) years full-time experience, or its part-time equivalent, as a public health educator.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENT: Possession of a valid New York State driver’s license and acceptable driving record is required at time of appointment. A valid New York State license must be maintained throughout employment. Must be able to satisfy the travel requirements of the position throughout employment.
CLASSIFICATION: Competitive