What is an Entry Level Epidemiologist Job?
An entry level epidemiologist job is a position that involves conducting research on public health issues and analyzing data to determine the prevalence and causes of diseases. It is an ideal job for those who are interested in the intersection of public health and statistics. Epidemiologists work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private companies.
What Usually Do in this Position?
The primary responsibility of an entry level epidemiologist is to collect and analyze health data to identify trends and patterns in diseases. They conduct research to determine the causes and risk factors of diseases and develop strategies to prevent their spread. Epidemiologists also work on designing and implementing public health programs and interventions, and communicating their findings to the public and policymakers.
Top 5 Skills for Position
- Data analysis and interpretation
- Epidemiological research methods
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
How to Become this Type of Specialist?
To become an entry level epidemiologist, you typically need a master's degree in epidemiology or a related field, such as public health or biostatistics. Some positions may require a doctoral degree. Most entry level epidemiologist positions also require experience in data analysis and research methods. You can gain this experience through internships, research assistantships, or other positions in public health or related fields.
Average Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for epidemiologists was $70,990 as of May 2020. The top 10 percent of epidemiologists earned more than $119,290 per year, while the bottom 10 percent earned less than $44,000 per year.
Roles and Types
There are many different roles and types of epidemiologists, including infectious disease epidemiologists, chronic disease epidemiologists, environmental epidemiologists, and occupational epidemiologists. Some epidemiologists work on research projects, while others focus on developing public health policies and programs. Some work in academia, while others work in government agencies or private companies.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA
The states with the highest employment levels for epidemiologists are California, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, and Texas. However, there are opportunities for entry level epidemiologists in many other states as well.
What are the Typical Tools?
Epidemiologists use a variety of tools and software programs to collect and analyze health data, including statistical software such as SAS and STATA, geographic information systems (GIS) software, and electronic health record systems. They also use spreadsheets, databases, and other tools to manage and organize data.
In Conclusion
An entry level epidemiologist job is an exciting and rewarding position that offers the opportunity to make a real difference in public health. With a strong foundation in data analysis, research methods, and public health policy, you can build a successful career as an epidemiologist in a variety of settings. Whether you are interested in infectious diseases, chronic diseases, environmental health, or another area of public health, there are many opportunities to make a positive impact on the health of communities around the world.