Department of Health, Housing, and Community Services
City of Berkeley, California
Annual Salary: $290,729 - $330,267 DOE/DOQ
Become a champion of public health in an iconic and innovative city! The City of Berkeley, California, is seeking an experienced Public Health Officer who will serve as the primary advisor to the Director of Health, Housing, and Community Services while also engaging on critical public health and related issues with the City Manager, City Council, and Commissions. The ideal candidate is a licensed physician with significant scientific and epidemiological knowledge. They will have excellent communication skills to be a trusted voice in the community, and political savvy to navigate the complex landscape of public health policy and administration. They will serve as a member of the Health, Housing, and Community Services executive team, ensuring efficiency and cohesion across the Department and providing indirect oversight of 11 public health nurses. This role is ideal for an influential leader who can communicate the Department's vision and align its strategies with the City's overarching goals. This visionary leader will drive initiatives to address community health challenges and improve the well-being of residents. Help position the City of Berkeley as a model for progressive and responsive public health leadership by applying today!
The Public Health Officer will drive the City of Berkeley’s mission to enhance community life and wellness for all residents. They will be a subject matter expert on the social determinants of health and frequently engage with institutions including hospitals, government authorities at each level, and the public. They will play a lead role in bridging gaps between the City’s health services, including physical, mental, and behavioral health and housing. This integrative approach aims to break down service silos, fostering comprehensive care for Berkeley’s residents! The position also involves strategic assessment of opportunities for key initiatives like CALAIM and updates to the City’s emergency preparedness plan, emphasizing a systemic and proactive approach to public health concerns.
The next Public Health Officer will evaluate and revise processes and protocols, present data and research to the City Council and Commissions, and provide clear direction for local public health protection programs. Additionally, they will play a crucial role in representing the City of Berkeley in regional and state discussions, including at the Association of Bay Area Health Officials (ABAHO), ensuring the community's needs are recognized and strategically addressed.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE The ideal candidate is a licensed physician and experienced public health leader who will proactively respond to the community’s needs. They will possess a strong understanding of Berkeley's diverse population and their unique health challenges, remaining informed of evolving trends affecting access to care. They will also be creative and resourceful, capable of obtaining additional funding sources for the City’s programs when required.
The Public Health Officer will serve as both a visionary strategist and a dedicated administrator. This role requires communication skills to collaborate with local agencies, regional health officers, and community leaders during outreach efforts. They remain composed during a crisis and effectively communicate complex scientific and medical information to the public. Supervisory skills are crucial for supporting a nursing staff of 11, creating a positive environment that promotes professional growth, knowledge sharing, and teamwork. This Public Health Officer builds trust and collaboration, confidently conveying the department’s mission: to enhance community life and support housing, health, and wellness for all.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
EXPERIENCE: Five (5) years of administrative or supervisory experience in providing public health services.
LICENSURE:
In accordance with Section 454 of the California Health and Safety Code, the Public Health Officer must be a graduate of a medical school in good standing and repute.
Persons employed in this classification must also possess a valid license to practice medicine in the State of California issued by the California Medical Board and be eligible for a California certificate to supervise physician assistants.
Must be able to travel to various locations within and outside the City of Berkeley to meet the program needs and to fulfill the job responsibilities. When driving on City business, the incumbent is required to maintain a valid California driver's license as well as a satisfactory driving record.
HIGHLY DESIRED
EDUCATION: Master's degree in Public Health.
EXPERIENCE: Experience with Incident Command System (ICS) activation. Prior experience working in partnership with community groups.
LICENSURE: Board Certification in a Medical Specialty.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
The annual salary is $290,729 - $330,267 DOE/DOQ, plus a generous benefits package.
Round one interviews will be virtual and held on September 19th. Finalists will move forward to in-person interviews on September 27th. Candidates invited to interview must be available for both dates.
QUESTIONS?
Please contact your recruiter, Terri, with any inquiries: