Public Health Specialist III - Prevention Consultant

Overview

The Vermont Department of Health's Barre District Office is seeking a highly motivated individual to join our team as a Public Health Specialist – Prevention Consultant. In this role, the Substance Misuse Prevention Consultant will collaborate with and provide support and technical assistance to community groups aimed at reducing substance misuse in Washington and northeastern Orange Counties. This position requires strong relationship‑building skills with both internal and external partners across various community sectors.

Preferred qualifications include a proven track record in community organizing, strategic planning, excellent presentation skills, group facilitation abilities, data analysis, and strong written and verbal communication skills. The candidate should be capable of interpreting state‑level program guidance to effectively meet the needs of the community. The duties are performed under the supervision of the Public Health Services District Director.

This role maintains a consistent physical presence in the office and community, with at least three days in‑office each week and the option to telework the remaining days. As of July 12, 2026, the step 1 rate for pay grade 24 will be $29.73 per hour and the step 15 rate will be $46.49 per hour.

• Collaborate with community groups to reduce substance misuse.
• Provide technical assistance and support to community partners.
• Build relationships with internal and external partners across community sectors.
• Interpret and apply state‑level program guidance to meet community needs.
• Maintain a consistent presence in office and community (≥3 days in‑office per week).

• Four (4) years or more of experience in public health, human services, emergency response, community engagement, program administration, or related health‑related fields.
• Associate degree in public health, public administration, business administration, environmental science, emergency response, human services, social work, social sciences, or health‑related fields and three (3) years or more of experience in the same fields.
• Bachelor's degree in the same fields and two (2) years or more of experience.
• Master's degree in the same fields and one (1) year or more of experience.
• One (1) year or more of experience as Public Health Specialist II.

• Proven track record in community organizing, strategic planning, excellent presentation skills, group facilitation abilities, data analysis, strong written and verbal communication skills.

Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position, including Vermont and/or national criminal record checks, as well as DMV and adult and child abuse registry checks, as appropriate to the position under recruitment.

State of Vermont telework policy requires at least three days a week working in the office. The Department of Health supports a hybrid work environment that combines in‑person and remote work. Upon hire, employees work with their supervisor to create a schedule that aligns with the business needs of the unit and complies with State of Vermont policy.

State employee total compensation includes:

• 80% State paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families.
• 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan.
• State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI).
• Two options for retirement savings: a State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan.
• Tuition Reimbursement.
• Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts.
• Low‑cost group life insurance.
• Incentive‑based Wellness Program.
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program.

The State of Vermont celebrates diversity and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status.

The State’s employment decisions are merit‑based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.