Field Services Specialist

DEPARTMENT: City of Philadelphia Department of Public Health (PDPH)

DIVISION: Division of HIV Health (DHH)

ROLE TYPE: Full-Time

JOB OVERVIEW:

The Field Services Program is responsible for linking people with HIV (PWH) to medical care, primarily those who are out of care. The Field Services Specialist (FSS) is a community outreach position within the Philadelphia Department of Public Health (PDPH), Division of HIV Health (DHH). This position reports to the Field Services Program Coordinator. The core functions of the FSS will be done through meeting clients in their homes and in the field, as well as accompanying patients to medical visits and community organizations. Much time is spent talking with the clients, building trust, determining what is preventing them from accessing medical care, and coordinating services. The FSS will also be responsible for providing outreach services to people who are newly diagnosed with HIV and individuals who may be impacted by community outbreaks of HIV. The Field Services Specialist will be required to work closely with partners in the HIV community, including medical providers, community-based organizations, and various divisions within the local and state health departments. The FSS must have a valid driver’s license, a good driving record, and willingness to transport patients, coworkers, and other pertinent personnel. Hired employees will not be required to have a car. Occasional evening work is required.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Please note that duties may be subject to change as needed.

• Communicate with management team, other health department staff, and public health partners in a timely and professional manner
• Consult with physicians, nurses, and other health professionals to ensure patients connect to medical care
• Demonstrate the ability to work independently while out in the field
• Effectively locate people living with HIV who are newly diagnosed and/or out of medical care through home and field visits, phone calls, social media platforms, and public databases
• Navigate the city of Philadelphia geographical area effectively
• Participate in coordinated response activities during public health emergencies, such as cluster and/or outbreak response
• Participate in training and career development seminars including ARTAS training, HIV Counseling and Testing, confidentiality and security, and professional ethics training
• Perform other related duties required by the Department of Public Health and/or Division of HIV Health
• Prioritize tasks for multiple concurrent projects, track the progress and status of tasks in detail, and provide status updates on short notice
• Provide appropriate substance abuse and mental health assessment
• Provide supportive services referrals to address patient/client barriers and needs
• Work with PWH to support positive coping strategies, identify barriers to accessing medical care, and navigate community resources

SKILLS:

• Willingness to conduct core outreach activities through home visits, doctor’s visits, and other field visits
• Desire to work with people with HIV (PWH) and people who inject drugs (PWID), communities of color, and LGBTQ people
• Ability to work effectively and respectfully with people of all gender identities and sexual orientations, applying a practice of cultural humility and ongoing self-reflection
• Ability to perform all specified duties and tasks
• Ability to solve complex problems quickly and effectively
• Ability to work collaboratively with a team
• Basic computer skills with knowledge of Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel
• Competent in written and oral communication
• Courteous customer service is vital to the position
• Demonstrate effective organization and time management skills
• Demonstrate respect for the confidentiality and privacy of health data
• Flexibility, professionalism, and the ability to remain calm in a fast-paced environment are essential attributes
• Interact sensitively, effectively, and professionally with people from diverse cultural, socioeconomic, and educational backgrounds
• Build positive working relationships with team members and support a healthy office culture
• Knowledge of HIV
• Willingness and flexibility in accepting direction

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Minimum of two years conducting outreach and/or community engagement activities with communities of color and/or persons who inject drugs and/or LGBTQ individuals
• At least one year working in an HIV, health services, social services, public health, or community-based organization
• Valid driver's license required

SALARY: Starting salary of $51,000 per year

PHMC is an Equal Opportunity and E-Verify Employer.