Mediabistro logo
job logo

Deputy Director of Public Health

National League of Cities, Bridgeport, CT, United States


Deputy Director of Public Health, Department of Health and Social Services The City of Bridgeport is now accepting submissions for the position of Deputy Director of Public Health. In direct support of Mayoral goals and consistent with the objectives of our department, we are dedicated to enhancing the health and well‑being of the Bridgeport community. Our mission is to provide high‑quality public health services that promote and protect the health of our citizens. We accomplish this by monitoring the effectiveness of our programs, enforcing laws and ordinances that support public health, and collecting critical health data to inform our work.

Salary and Benefits $128,215.00 (step/level 1) – $132,702.00 (step/level 2), $135,421.00 (step/level 3) annually. Starting salary shall be commensurate with experience and qualification as determined by the City. This position is affiliated with the Bridgeport City Supervisors Association (BCSA) and includes a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance coverage (medical, dental, vision, prescription), term life insurance, paid leave (sick, vacation, personal), paid holidays, 457(b) deferred compensation plan, and other voluntary employee‑paid benefits.

General Statement of Duties In accordance with Bridgeport Municipal Charter Chapter 20 § 2, the Deputy Director of Public Health shall be appointed by the Director of Public Health, with the approval of the Mayor, and serve at the pleasure of the Director. Under the direction of the Director of Public Health, the Deputy Director may support all divisions within the Department of Public Health & Social Services, oversee operational functions, manage staff and budgets, develop departmental policies and procedures, coordinate grants, interpret public health statutes and regulations, and ensure program consistency with the department’s mission and vision. The position may also be tasked with planning, developing, organizing, and directing a comprehensive environmental health program and may serve as Acting Director when needed.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Perform a significant leadership role in collaborating with other departments, agencies, and individuals on investigations and resolution of problems, and on the initiation or planning of new programs.

Coordinate the periodic review of local, state, and federal legislation to assure current departmental policies.

Provide direction on the development of strategy and vision for goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for the Bridgeport Health Department.

Develop and execute major programs aligned to the department’s objectives.

Review data related to public health policy and trends to determine strengths and weaknesses, and ensure effectiveness of health programs and services.

Meet with directors and supervisors of operating divisions to provide direction and consider changes in plans or operations reflecting public health needs and resource availability.

Attend meetings of public health associations and other professional groups to address public health threats and manage administrative matters.

Provide guidance in classification development for positions and report on department performance.

Develop applications for grant funds for the department and community agencies.

Direct the identification, evaluation, and acquisition of resources for health programs and services, including grants.

Represent the Director of Public Health and the department at public, professional, and civic meetings. Perform related work as necessary.

Minimum Educational and Experience Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Public Administration, or a related field; a Master’s degree in Public Health is preferred.

3‑5 years of progressive experience in a health organization and public administration or a related field.

Minimum of 3 years of supervisory experience directing planning, implementation, coordination, administration, monitoring, and evaluation of a comprehensive program or division. Master’s degree counts as one year of experience.

Experience leading collaborations with diverse partners, including community leaders, community‑based organizations, and state or federal partners.

Demonstrated work experience with underserved or diverse populations and awareness of health equity issues.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Thorough knowledge of public health administration, policies, and practices.

Knowledge and understanding of state public health laws and regulations and their application at the local level.

Knowledge of epidemiology and statistics, with experience in health research.

Understanding of health prevention and risk reduction for children and families.

Ability to analyze, interpret, and explain proposed legislation and programs.

Ability to operate flexibly within shifting political and operational constraints.

Excellent oral and written communication skills and computer proficiency.

Ability to recognize populations at risk for health problems and develop corresponding programs.

Ability to manage a large organization and facilitate cooperation with other agencies.

Strong management skills in organization, planning, communication, and budgeting.

Ability to solve complex development problems.

Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing and to prepare and present reports.

Capability to interact professionally with individuals at all levels of government and the public.

Proficiency in computer software applications, including Office 365 and planning and permitting applications.

Ability to organize, prioritize, and schedule work tasks to meet deadlines.

Licenses and Certifications

Valid Connecticut Driver’s License may be required for transportation between sites.

Physical Demands and Work Environment The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of the tasks required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Tasks may require prolonged periods of sitting and working at a computer workstation, involving fine finger dexterity and the ability to type, read, and manipulate documents.

Ability to see and read objects closely, including maps and reports.

Additional hours and attendance at meetings outside regular work hours may be required.

The work environment is professional, team‑oriented, and often involves urgent deadlines.

This job description is not a complete statement of all duties, functions, responsibilities, or qualifications. It is intended as a general summary only and may be updated by city management. This is not a contract of employment.

The City of Bridgeport is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

#J-18808-Ljbffr