DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC HEALTH

DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC HEALTH
DIVISION OF PUBLIC HEALTH
CITY OF WORCESTER

The City of Worcester is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Deputy Director of Public Health for the Public Health Division within the Office of Health and Human Services (HHS). Under the direction of the Director of Public Health, the Deputy Director of Public Health is responsible for providing day-to-day operational leadership to ensure public health programs and services are delivered effectively, efficiently, and equitably. This role will support the Director of Public Health to translate priorities into action, strengthen internal systems, and align staffing and resources. The Deputy Director of Public Health will oversee core administrative functions, including budget planning and monitoring, operational performance, and strategic planning support, contract execution, personnel matters, and the establishment and implementation of policies and standard operating procedures in accordance with local ordinances as well as State and Federal laws and regulations. 

Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.

ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS:

• Oversee the preparation and administration of the annual operating budget in partnership with the Director.
• Oversee the management of programs, services and staff including personnel functions (i.e. employee recruitment, discipline and training).
• Respond to public health emergencies within the City.
• Lead daily operations across the division to support consistent, high-quality public service delivery.
• Assist in developing and maintaining a strategic planning process that establishes operational goals, work plans, milestones, and performance measures aligned with division priorities.
• Develop and maintain clear workflows, internal communication practices, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Identify operational risks, service gaps, bottlenecks; implement corrective actions and continuous improvement.
• Monitor spending, support forecasting, and help ensure responsible purchasing and resource allocation.
• Coordinate with City budget and procurement department on budget processes and purchasing practices.
• Supervise, coach, and support office chiefs; provide clear direction, accountability, and feedback.
• Support quality improvement and accreditation-related activities as applicable.
• Support grant and contract-related coordination as assigned, including basic tracking and compliance support in partnership with program staff.
• Ensure operations align with City policies and applicable local, state, and federal requirements.
• Oversee the operation of the Division in the event of the temporary absence of the Director of Public Health.
• Communicate effectively with staff, partners, and the public using tact and good judgment when resolving concerns.

SECONDARY ELEMENTS:

• Attend workshops and/or seminars to keep abreast of latest developments in the provision of public health services as well as changes in applicable state and federal laws and regulations and to maintain required certifications and/or licenses.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Working knowledge of the municipal operations and services provided including applicable local ordinances, State and Federal laws and regulations.
• Demonstrated proficiency with computers and proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint).
• Knowledge of potential grant sources of funding and contract management in support of division operations.
• Strong operational judgment; ability to work independently and manage complex workflows.
• Manage competing priorities in a public-facing environment
• Ability to interpret and apply policies, laws, and regulations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• High attention to detail, organization, and follow-through in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to use HR/finance and reporting tools (e.g., Workday, Hera, and Microsoft Office).
• Ability to effectively handle problems in the field and during emergencies, including outbreaks or natural/man-made disasters.
• Ability to read and interpret Federal, State and local laws and ordinances.
• Ability to interact effectively with members of the public, local officials and other department personnel.
• Ability to work independently, exercise good judgment and make sound decisions.
• Ability to think critically and solve problems.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with diverse populations, organizations, and interests.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to conduct research, prepare grant applications, and to prepare detailed, accurate reports.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously in a detailed and organized manner in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Excellent research and data processing skills and ability to prepare clear and concise reports.
• Regular onsite attendance is required.

 MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in business/public administration, health administration, public health, or related field
• Five (5) years of related work experience in business/public administration, public health or a related field
• Experience leading operations in public health, healthcare, human services, or government.
• Experience with budgeting and/or operational planning
• Valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation
• Experience supervising staff
• Experience in working with diverse communities

 PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree in business/public administration, health administration, public health, or related field
• Ten (10) years of related work experience in public health or a related field
• Three (3) years of experience supervising staff
• Three (3) years of experience with overseeing grant and/or contract management
• Three (3) years of experience with program or project management

HIRING RANGE: $105,546 - $114,625 annually, full-time, exempt, with an excellent benefits package.

FULL SALARY RANGE: $105,546 - $123,642

To apply, please visit:  www.worcesterma.gov/employment or send resume and cover letter to: City of Worcester, 455 Main Street, Room 109, Worcester, MA  01608. OPEN UNTIL FILLED, applications received prior to or on FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2026, will receive preference. Preference is given to Worcester residents. The City of Worcester is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. Direct inquiries to:  City Hall, Human Resources, Room 109, 508-799-1030, Hiring@worcesterma.gov.