What does an Epidemiologist do?
An epidemiologist is responsible for ensuring that there are no outbreaks of any disease. They are responsible for planning to contain the spread of a serious infectious disease. A few of the main duties of an epidemiologist are collecting data for tests, developing a plan of action, communicating their findings to policy makers, and investigating diseases. They also have to create reports about the potential spread of certain diseases. Some of the jobs titles that an epidemiologist could grow into are politician and chief scientific officer.
An epidemiologist should have two years of training as well as a Master's degree in public health. One of the most important skills that an epidemiologist will have is critical thinking. Another skill is problem solving as the epidemiologist will need to be able to solve a potential public health crisis. They also need to be able to effectively communicate with policy makers on potential threats.
- Analyze data and find conclusions
- Create a plan of action for potential health crises
- Create reports detailing potential threats
- Give presentations to policy makers
- Communicate with policy makers on public health
- Manage multiple projects at once
- Create public health programs and manage them
- Develop studies to gain more information
- Two years of training
- Strong presentation skills
- Ability to problem solve complex issues
- Deep knowledge of public health policy
- Detail oriented to ensure nothing is missed
- Ability to design public health studies
- Great math and statistic skills
- Ability to juggle multiple projects at once
- Ability to effectively communicate issues
How much does an Epidemiologist make near United States?
Base Pay
Additional Pay
$88,828
/ yrEpidemiologist Career Path
Learn how to become an Epidemiologist, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Epidemiologist Insights
Knowesis“Everyone is super personable and great to work with.”
Singapore Airlines“Good good good good good”
Reconciliation Services“Pay was terrible and no development offered”
Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences“Emphasis on career development and growth”
Public Health Agency of Canada“I am working remotely and the work life balance is great.”
Westerman Hattori Daniels & Adrian“Family orientated good work and life balance.”
VDH“Improve overall pay and retention will be better.”
Banner & Witcoff“Starting pay is not that good”
Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of an Epidemiologist
- Research Fellow
- Research Coordinator
- Researcher
- Student Researcher