Description

Job ID: 65297 Department: TN DOH Position: Public Health Representative 2 Location: 1301 Riverfront Pkwy 209 Chattanooga, Tennessee 37402 Duration: 12 Months Job Description: The Vulnerable Populations Coordinator (VPC) serves as a key liaison within the Healthcare Coalition (HCC) and Regional Health Department to improve preparedness, response, and recovery for at-risk populations who may be disproportionately impacted by disasters and public health emergencies. Working under the guidance of the Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) and/or the Regional Healthcare Coordinator (RHC) / Emergency Response Coordinator (ERC) the VPC supports outreach, planning, training, and response initiatives that reduce health disparities and advance health equity across the region. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Coordinate with Healthcare Coalitions (HCCs), healthcare facilities, and community organizations to integrate the needs of vulnerable populations into all phases of emergency preparedness and response. Develop, implement, and maintain partnerships with long-term care, hospice, home health, dialysis, assisted living, behavioral health, and other providers serving vulnerable groups. Provide ongoing support for vaccination efforts and infectious disease response, including planning and operating Points of Distribution (PODs). Deliver regular training and technical assistance on the Healthcare Resource Tracking System (HRTS) and Patient Bed Matching (PBM); serve as the regional SME for PBM. Maintain coalition contact lists, inventories, and preventive maintenance logs for coalition-owned assets. Develop and update resource lists of agencies and vendors that support vulnerable populations (e.g., medical equipment providers, food banks, housing services, NGOs). Facilitate outreach and host quarterly meetings with population-specific partners to enhance preparedness and participation in HCCs. Collaborate with government agencies, NGOs, and local coalitions (health councils, LEPCs, drug coalitions, etc.) to strengthen community-wide engagement. Support regional exercises and contribute to After-Action Reports/Improvement Plans that address gaps for vulnerable populations. Assist with reporting requirements, data management, and compliance with ASPR HPP and CDC PHEP program guidance. Aid during emergencies and disaster activations, including logistical and response support to the RHC and HCC. Additional duties as directed by RHC's / ERCs. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Knowledge of public health, emergency preparedness, and healthcare system operations. Understanding of social vulnerability and access/functional needs considerations in disaster planning. Ability to develop and deliver training programs for diverse stakeholders. Strong skills in communication, facilitation, and relationship building across multiple sectors. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, HRTS, PBM, and other preparedness platforms. Capacity to manage coalition data, reporting, and preventive maintenance schedules. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Public Health, Emergency Management, Healthcare Administration, Social Work, or a related field (Master's preferred). Minimum of 2 3 years of experience in public health, healthcare preparedness, emergency management, or community outreach. ICS 100, 200, 700, 800 (required); ICS 300/400 preferred within 24 months of hire. Valid TN driver's license; ability to travel regionally and statewide. Physical and Work Environment Office-based with frequent community and coalition travel. Requires intermittent sitting, standing, and occasional lifting of up to 30 lbs. Must be available for after-hours emergency response and extended shifts during activations. Moderate risk of exposure to public health hazards during emergency response operations.