Epidemiologist Job Description

What is the job description of an Epidemiologist? What are the duties and responsibilities of an Epidemiologist? What does an Epidemiologist do?

Job description of an Epidemiologist

An Epidemiologist studies the causes and spread of infectious diseases within populations of people in order to develop methods for detecting, containing, and preventing future outbreaks. The Epidemiologist will monitor outbreaks, collect data, and report findings to the public and policy-makers.

This Epidemiologist job description example includes the list of most important Epidemiologist duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Epidemiologist profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Epidemiologist Duties and Responsibilities

Epidemiologist job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Traveling to sites to research, observe, and study the outbreak and spread of infectious diseases.
  • Interacting with people to collect disease-related data through field research, observation, questionnaires, and studies.
  • Performing laboratory tests to analyze data.
  • Monitoring outbreaks and assisting in emergency situations.
  • Designing, implementing, advising on, and updating health policies to minimize outbreaks and the spread of infections.
  • Educating and advising policy-makers and the public on recent findings.
  • Using computer programs to compile, calculate, and analyze the data.
  • Reporting findings in meetings and presentations.
  • Maintaining awareness of current trends, new discoveries, and advancements in technology.

Epidemiologist Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Epidemiologist job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • A Master's degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, or related field.
  • Experience in community health is advantageous.
  • Good computer literacy skills.
  • Strong organizational, analytical, reasoning, and research skills.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Additional training or certifications, especially those supported by the Center for Disease Control, may be a benefit.
  • A willingness to travel to conduct research.

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Epidemiologist starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Epidemiologist job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of an Epidemiologist may also reference it in preparation for the interview.