Disease Surveillance Specialist in North Carolina Career Overview

As a Disease Surveillance Specialist, you play a vital role in monitoring, tracking, and analyzing health data related to infectious diseases. Your work directly contributes to public health initiatives aimed at preventing outbreaks and ensuring community safety. Responsibilities typically include:

  • Data Collection and Analysis: You gather and analyze data from various sources, including hospitals, laboratories, and public health databases, to identify trends and patterns in disease occurrences.

  • Monitoring Disease Outbreaks: You actively monitor emerging disease threats, helping to identify outbreaks early and assess their impact on public health.

  • Collaboration: Communication and coordination with healthcare professionals, government agencies, and community organizations are essential. You work to ensure that information is shared effectively and that response strategies are implemented efficiently.

  • Reporting: Compiling and presenting findings in reports is a critical function. These reports inform public health decisions and policies aimed at minimizing the spread of disease.

  • Research Support: Your expertise aids in research projects that investigate disease causes, transmission methods, and control strategies, contributing to the broader understanding of public health challenges.

  • Education and Training: You may also engage in educating healthcare providers and the community about disease prevention, data interpretation, and the importance of surveillance in public health.

In this role, you are at the forefront of safeguarding public health, utilizing analytical skills to make informed decisions that protect communities from health threats.

Disease Surveillance Specialist Salary in North Carolina

Annual Median: $77,170
Hourly Median: $37.1

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Disease Surveillance Specialist in North Carolina

To become a Disease Surveillance Specialist in North Carolina, specific educational qualifications and training are typically required:

  • Epidemiology: A master's degree in epidemiology is often the minimum requirement. This program provides you with essential knowledge regarding disease patterns and the factors influencing public health.

  • Epidemiology and Biostatistics: A degree in this field encompasses both epidemiology and statistical methods, equipping you with vital skills to analyze health data effectively.

  • Public Health: A master's degree in public health (MPH) provides a broad foundation in various aspects of health policy, education, and programming, which are relevant to disease surveillance efforts.

  • Public Health Nursing: If pursuing a career as a Disease Surveillance Specialist through nursing, obtaining a degree in public health nursing will prepare you to combine nursing practices with public health strategies. This often requires a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) followed by a master's or additional training in public health.

  • Infectious Disease and Global Health: Degrees focusing on infectious diseases and global health are also relevant. These programs emphasize understanding global health challenges, disease control, and prevention strategies necessary for effective surveillance.

In addition to your degree, you may engage in internships or practicum experiences during your studies. These opportunities help you gain practical experience in disease surveillance and public health practices in real-world settings.

Best Schools to become a Disease Surveillance Specialist in North Carolina 2024

#1Maricopa County

Aspen University

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$5,700
Out-of-State Tuition:$5,700
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:N/A
Total Enrollment:7,386
#2Baltimore City

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD

In-State Tuition:$60,480
Out-of-State Tuition:$60,480
Admission Rate:7%
Graduation Rate:94%
Total Enrollment:31,275
#3Richland County

University of South Carolina-Columbia

Columbia, SC

In-State Tuition:$12,288
Out-of-State Tuition:$33,528
Admission Rate:64%
Graduation Rate:78%
Total Enrollment:35,653
#4Washoe County

University of Nevada-Reno

Reno, NV

In-State Tuition:$8,133
Out-of-State Tuition:$24,687
Admission Rate:86%
Graduation Rate:62%
Total Enrollment:20,945
#5Middlesex County

Rutgers University-New Brunswick

New Brunswick, NJ

In-State Tuition:$12,900
Out-of-State Tuition:$30,600
Admission Rate:66%
Graduation Rate:84%
Total Enrollment:50,637
#6Alameda County

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA

In-State Tuition:$11,564
Out-of-State Tuition:$41,636
Admission Rate:11%
Graduation Rate:94%
Total Enrollment:45,307
Disease Surveillance Specialist Job Description:
  • Investigate and describe the determinants and distribution of disease, disability, or health outcomes.
  • May develop the means for prevention and control.

Disease Surveillance Specialist Required Skills and Competencies in North Carolina

  • Analytical Skills: You need to interpret complex data sets, identify trends and patterns in disease outbreaks, and make data-driven decisions.

  • Attention to Detail: Accuracy is essential in this role. You must meticulously review data for anomalies and ensure the reliability of your findings.

  • Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with statistical software, databases, and data visualization tools is important for analyzing health data and presenting your findings effectively.

  • Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication abilities are necessary to convey complex information to various stakeholders, including public health officials, healthcare providers, and the general public.

  • Interpersonal Skills: Building relationships with healthcare providers, community organizations, and other stakeholders is vital for effective data collection and collaboration.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: You should be able to develop solutions quickly in response to emerging public health issues and adapt strategies based on new information.

  • Project Management: Managing multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously while ensuring that all aspects of disease surveillance are conducted efficiently is a key competency.

  • Knowledge of Epidemiology: A solid understanding of epidemiological principles and concepts, including disease transmission and outbreak management, is necessary.

  • Critical Thinking: You must evaluate information objectively, assess risks, and make informed recommendations based on evidence.

  • Ethical Judgment: Maintaining confidentiality and ethical standards when handling sensitive health data is essential to ensure the integrity of your work and protect individual privacy.

Job Duties for Disease Surveillance Specialists

  • Communicate research findings on various types of diseases to health practitioners, policy makers, and the public.

  • Investigate diseases or parasites to determine cause and risk factors, progress, life cycle, or mode of transmission.

  • Oversee public health programs, including statistical analysis, health care planning, surveillance systems, and public health improvement.

Technologies and Skills Used by Disease Surveillance Specialists

Analytical or scientific software

  • StataCorp Stata
  • World Health Organization HealthMapper

Geographic information system

  • Esri ArcGIS
  • Geographic information system GIS software

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Basic Skills

  • Reading work related information
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem

People and Technology Systems

  • Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Disease Surveillance Specialist in North Carolina

  • The demand for Disease Surveillance Specialists in North Carolina has been on the rise due to heightened awareness of public health issues and the increasing complexity of disease tracking and prevention efforts. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly emphasized the need for skilled professionals in this area, propelling the necessity for disease surveillance to the forefront of public health initiatives.

  • Growth potential for this role is substantial. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, as well as local health departments, are continually expanding their teams to manage disease outbreaks effectively and enhance epidemiological research. This growth is supported by initiatives aimed at improving health information systems and integrating real-time data analysis into public health strategies.

  • Geographically, the largest concentrations of opportunities for Disease Surveillance Specialists can be found in urban areas such as:

    • Raleigh-Durham: Home to numerous healthcare organizations, universities, and research facilities, this region offers a vibrant job market for public health professionals.

    • Charlotte: As a major urban center with a growing population, the need for disease surveillance in both healthcare facilities and community health programs is increasing.

    • Greensboro: The presence of local government health departments and non-profit organizations engaged in public health initiatives contributes to job openings in this area.

    • Winston-Salem: Notable for its healthcare research and academic institutions, this city presents opportunities for specialists involved in epidemiological studies.

  • Additionally, job prospects extend to federal and state government roles, non-profit organizations, and research institutions, all working within the realm of public health monitoring and disease prevention.

  • The shift toward data-driven decision-making in public health further enhances the demand for Disease Surveillance Specialists who can interpret and analyze data effectively, positioning North Carolina as an attractive state for those pursuing a career in this field.

  • Networking opportunities are abundant through organizations such as the North Carolina Public Health Association and annual public health conferences, which can facilitate connections with key employers and peers in the industry.

Overall, the job market for Disease Surveillance Specialists in North Carolina is expanding, fueled by increasing public health needs and a commitment to disease prevention and control.

Top Related Careers to Disease Surveillance Specialist 2024

Public Health Analyst
Clinical Research Coordinator
Health Data Scientist
Infection Prevention Specialist

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Disease Surveillance Specialist in North Carolina

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

    • The CDC provides extensive resources on disease surveillance, including guidelines, statistics, and public health tools.
      CDC Disease Surveillance

  • North Carolina Division of Public Health

  • National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO)

    • NACCHO offers resources and training aimed at enhancing local health departments' capacity for disease surveillance.
      NACCHO

  • Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) - Surveillance Guidelines

    • While focused on Canadian practices, PHAC provides valuable insights into effective surveillance strategies that could benefit your understanding.
      PHAC Surveillance Guidelines

  • World Health Organization (WHO)

    • WHO's resources on global disease surveillance and epidemiology are significant for understanding international frameworks and standards.
      WHO Disease Surveillance

  • Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists (CSTE)

    • CSTE supports public health officials and practitioners by providing resources in epidemiology and disease control.
      CSTE

  • American Public Health Association (APHA)

    • APHA offers publications, webinars, and resources pertinent to public health policies and practices, including disease surveillance.
      APHA

  • The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program

    • This program provides cancer statistics and information on the epidemiological principles used for disease monitoring in the U.S.
      SEER Program

  • North Carolina Epidemiology Section

    • This section of the North Carolina Division of Public Health focuses on disease outbreaks, reporting, and epidemiological studies within the state.
      Epidemiology Section

  • Courses and Certifications

    • Consider platforms like Coursera, edX, or the Public Health Agency of Canada that offer courses in epidemiology and disease surveillance.
      Coursera Public Health Courses

Engaging with these resources will enhance your understanding of disease surveillance and inform your career path effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Disease Surveillance Specialist in North Carolina

  • What does a Disease Surveillance Specialist do?
    As a Disease Surveillance Specialist, you monitor and analyze public health data to detect disease outbreaks and trends. You collect data from various sources, assess the public health impact, and collaborate with healthcare professionals and organizations to develop intervention strategies.

  • What qualifications do I need to become a Disease Surveillance Specialist?
    Typically, a bachelor's degree in public health, epidemiology, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees, such as a Master of Public Health (MPH), can enhance your job prospects. Relevant work experience or internships in public health or disease control are also beneficial.

  • What skills are important for a Disease Surveillance Specialist?
    Key skills include strong analytical abilities, proficiency in data analysis software, excellent communication skills, and a solid understanding of epidemiological methods. Attention to detail and problem-solving skills are essential for identifying and responding to health threats.

  • Where do Disease Surveillance Specialists work?
    You may find positions within government health departments, hospitals, academic institutions, nonprofit organizations, or private industry. Opportunities exist at various levels of government, from local to federal.

  • What is the job outlook for Disease Surveillance Specialists in North Carolina?
    The job outlook is favorable, as the demand for public health professionals continues to grow, especially in response to emerging infectious diseases and public health initiatives. The need for specialists in disease surveillance is anticipated to rise due to increased focus on preventive health measures.

  • How much does a Disease Surveillance Specialist earn in North Carolina?
    Salaries can vary based on experience, education, and location. On average, Disease Surveillance Specialists in North Carolina can expect to earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, with opportunities for advancement as you gain experience and expertise.

  • What types of organizations hire Disease Surveillance Specialists?
    Employers can include state and local health departments, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hospitals, universities, and private healthcare organizations. Nonprofits focused on public health initiatives also seek specialists for disease monitoring and reporting.

  • Is certification available for Disease Surveillance Specialists?
    Yes, certifications such as the Certified in Public Health (CPH) credential can enhance your qualifications and make you more competitive in the job market. Additionally, training in specific areas like epidemiology or biostatistics can be beneficial.

  • What are the advancement opportunities in this career?
    With experience, you may progress to senior analyst roles, management positions, or specialized areas, such as outbreak investigation or policy development. Continuing education and professional development are vital for career advancement.

  • What are the typical work hours for a Disease Surveillance Specialist?
    Standard work hours are typically Monday to Friday during office hours. However, during public health emergencies or disease outbreaks, you may be required to work evenings, weekends, or be on-call.

  • What kinds of challenges do Disease Surveillance Specialists face?
    Challenges include staying current with emerging diseases, managing large datasets, addressing public health emergencies effectively, and ensuring clear communication among stakeholders and the community.

  • How can I gain experience in disease surveillance?
    Consider internships, volunteer opportunities, or entry-level positions in public health organizations. Networking with professionals in the field and participating in relevant workshops or training sessions can also provide valuable experience.