Maniilaq Association

02/26

Title: Disease Intervention Specialist                                                                         Range:  TBD                        

Program: Public Health Nursing                                                                                 Status: Non-Exempt              

Housing Priority: TBD                                                                                               Covered: Yes                       

POSITION SUMMARY

The Disease Intervention Specialist (DIS) supports Maniilaq Association’s Syndemic-informed public health efforts under the ETHIC II grant by conducting disease investigations, partner services, and linkage to care for individuals affected by or at risk for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis C (HCV), and other communicable diseases.

This position is community-centered and relational, emphasizing trust-building, confidentiality, health education, and coordination with clinical, behavioral health, and social services. The DIS works closely with Public Health Nurses (PHNs), providers, and community partners to reduce transmission, prevent complications, and strengthen access to timely, culturally responsive care across the Maniilaq service region. This position requires in-region travel but the position could be based in Kotzebue or remotely.

An Alaska-licensed RN may be preferred but is not required. When licensed, an RN DIS may assist with proposing standing orders and supporting clinical workflows; however, the core DIS role does not require nursing licensure.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Disease Investigation & Partner Services

• Conduct confidential case investigations for reportable communicable diseases, including HIV, syphilis, and HCV
• Interview cases and contacts using trauma-informed, culturally responsive approaches
• Identify, locate, and notify partners and other individuals at risk
• Facilitate referrals for testing, evaluation, treatment, and prevention services (including PrEP when appropriate)
• Document case histories, exposure information, and outcomes in required public health databases and EMR systems
• Ensure compliance with state, federal, and Tribal public health laws and confidentiality standards

Linkage to Care & Patient Navigation

• Serve as a patient advocate to support linkage to medical care, behavioral health, substance use disorder treatment, and social services
• Coordinate with clinics, village health staff, PHNs, and providers to reduce delays in care
• Support re-engagement of individuals previously diagnosed with HIV or HCV who are not currently in care
• Provide follow-up to ensure completion of testing and treatment when possible

Education & Community Engagement

• Provide one-on-one and small group education on disease prevention, risk reduction, and available services
• Support development and dissemination of culturally relevant public health education materials
• Participate in community outreach activities, including village visits and public health events
• Answer disease-related questions from clients, partners, and community stakeholders

Collaboration & Systems Support

• Work collaboratively with PHNs, providers, laboratories, behavioral health, and regional partners
• Assist with surveillance activities, reporting, and quality improvement initiatives
• Maintain awareness of local, regional, and national disease trends and outbreaks
• Participate in public health emergency preparedness activities as required

Field & Environmental Conditions

• Conduct work in clinic, community, and field settings, including home visits when appropriate
• Travel by small plane and other regional transportation
• May encounter emotionally charged situations or individuals experiencing substance use, mental health challenges, or housing instability

RN-SPECIFIC FUNCTIONS (WHEN APPLICABLE)

If the DIS holds an active Alaska RN license:

• Assist in developing or proposing standing orders under medical direction
• Support specimen collection or clinical coordination as permitted by scope and policy
• Collaborate closely with PHNs to strengthen clinical–public health integration

(RN licensure is not required to perform DIS duties.)

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in public health, social work, psychology, sociology, health education, nursing, or a related field OR equivalent combination of education and relevant experience
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel within the Maniilaq service region
• Strong communication, documentation, and interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated ability to work independently while functioning as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Commitment to confidentiality and ethical public health practice

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience working in public health, disease intervention, contact tracing, or community health
• Experience working in rural or Alaska Native communities
• Knowledge of HIV, STI, and HCV prevention and care
• Familiarity with trauma-informed and harm reduction approaches
• Alaska RN license preferred but not required
• Phlebotomy experience or willingness to be trained (if appropriate to role and licensure)

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Interviewing and counseling skills
• Cultural humility and sensitivity
• Ability to manage confidential and sensitive information
• Organizational and time-management skills
• Comfort working in nontraditional and remote environments
• Ability to respond calmly and professionally in challenging situations

DISCLAIMER

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job.  They are not intended to be considered an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel in this job, and the employer reserves the right to revise or change this description.  This description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.  To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform each of the above essential duties and meet physical demands.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to meet those conditions.