As a licensed physician, plans, coordinates, conducts, analyzes, interprets, and reports the findings from public health surveillance systems and advanced epidemiologic studies which identify the causes of morbidity and mortality. Designs and coordinates appropriate preventive health measures based upon investigative results. Determines which specific public health issues require further epidemiologic studies. Medical positions provide professional medical consultation in the performance of these duties.

Incumbents at this level independently propose and direct epidemiological investigations or act as the principal investigator on local, state, and/or federal health research grants. Positions at this level may supervise or lead lower level epidemiologists or other research staff.

Independently proposes and supervises epidemiological investigations of human morbidity or mortality;

Collaborates with a broad spectrum of public health constituents and participants including federal, state, and local public health officials, as well as government officials, private individuals, and senior researchers in academic settings;

Coordinates local, state and/or federal health research programs;

Is principal investigator (PI) on local, state, and/or federal health research grants;

May supervise lower level staff.

There may be instances where individual positions must have additional licenses or certification. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the appropriate licenses/certifications are obtained for each position.

Persons legally authorized to work in the U.S. under federal law, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients, are eligible for employment unless prohibited by other state or federal law.

A Medical degree with a Master's degree in epidemiology or a Master's degree in public health including 12 graduate quarter hours (500 level or above) in epidemiology and 12 graduate quarter hours in biostatistics and two years of experience in epidemiology research analysis. Completion of related training or experience such as with the Centers for Disease Control or the National Institute of Health will substitute for MPH degree.

Note: When an MD is selected, a license to practice medicine in the state of Washington must be obtained.

New class replaces 53523 Epidemiologist 3 (Medical); effective June 1, 2005.

Revised Legal Requirements; effective June 6, 2024, due to adopted legislative action.