2

Entry Level Epidemiologist Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Epidemiologist information

See Tennessee salary details

$40.8K

$77.3K

$120.7K

How much do entry level epidemiologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level epidemiologist in Tennessee is $77,349.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,100.00 and $91,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level epidemiologist do?

As an entry-level epidemiologist, your responsibilities include conducting research into the spread of disease, treatment of epidemics, and how to prevent epidemics and public health crises. You work under the supervision of a more experienced epidemiologist or a principal investigator who heads a research lab. Your duties depend on whether your office focuses on crafting public policy or conducting research, and they may include planning and conducting studies, collecting data for analysis, writing reports, or developing policy based on research.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level epidemiologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Epidemiologist, you need a solid background in public health, biostatistics, and epidemiological methods, typically backed by a bachelor's or master's degree in public health or a related field. Familiarity with statistical analysis software (such as SAS, SPSS, or R) and data management systems is highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective written and verbal communication skills help you interpret data and collaborate on research teams. These abilities are crucial for accurately analyzing public health data, identifying trends, and supporting evidence-based decision making.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level epidemiologists when transitioning from academic study to professional practice?

Entry level epidemiologists often find that applying theoretical knowledge to real-world data and public health issues can be challenging. In the workplace, they must quickly adapt to using specialized software, follow strict protocols, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. Balancing multiple projects and deadlines, communicating findings to non-experts, and navigating public health bureaucracy are also common hurdles. However, supportive team environments and mentorship opportunities can help ease this transition and build practical skills.

What is the difference between Entry Level Epidemiologist vs Public Health Analyst?

AspectEntry Level EpidemiologistPublic Health Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Public Health, Epidemiology, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Public Health, Health Policy, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch settings, healthcare facilities, government agenciesPolicy analysis, program evaluation, government or NGO offices
Employer & Industry UsagePublic health departments, research institutions, hospitalsGovernment agencies, non-profits, consulting firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Epidemiologists and Public Health Analysts often share similar educational backgrounds and work in public health settings. While epidemiologists focus on disease investigation and data analysis, public health analysts tend to concentrate on policy, program evaluation, and health outcomes. Both roles are essential in public health initiatives and frequently overlap in skills and work environments.

How to start a career in entry level epidemiologist?

To start a career as an entry-level epidemiologist, obtain a bachelor's degree in public health, epidemiology, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in data analysis and statistical software, and pursuing a master's degree can improve job prospects in this field.

Is there a demand for entry level epidemiologists?

Entry level epidemiologists are in demand due to ongoing public health needs, disease outbreaks, and the emphasis on data analysis and disease prevention. Job growth is expected to be steady, especially for those with strong analytical skills and proficiency in statistical software like SAS or R.

What are the most commonly searched types of Epidemiologist jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Epidemiologist jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Epidemiologist jobs in Tennessee?

For Entry Level Epidemiologist jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Epidemiologist job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,349 per year, or $37.2 per hour.

Administrative Assistant - Division of Epidemiology (Hybrid)

Vanderbilt Health

Nashville, TN • Hybrid

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 10 hours ago

Posted today


Vanderbilt University Medical Center rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 253 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

189th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Discover Vanderbilt University Medical Center: Located in Nashville, Tennessee, and operating at a global crossroads of teaching, discovery, and patient care, VUMC is a community ofindividuals who come to work each day with the simple aim of changing the world. It is a place where your expertise will be valued, your knowledge expanded, and your abilities challenged. Vanderbilt Health is committed to an environment where everyone has the chance to thrive and where your uniquenessis sought and celebrated. It is a place where employees know they are part of something that is bigger than themselves, take exceptional pride in their work and never settle for what was good enough yesterday. Vanderbilt's mission is to advance health and wellness through preeminent programs in patient care, education, and research.

Organization:

Epidemiology Admin

Job Summary:

Provides administrative support of an area's activities with occasional guidance. Responds to customer needs by consulting with others as appropriate or by following established guidelines. Organizes flow of daily operations to ensures service priorities are met.

.

DEPARTMENT SUMMARY

The Division of Epidemiology is committed to:

  • Conducting research to enhance and expand our understanding of the distribution and determinants of disease

  • Promoting collaboration aimed at translating research into cost-effective strategies of disease prevention and health care delivery

  • Training independent investigators in epidemiology research and disease prevention

Our faculty share a broad interest in the research of genetics, nutrition, and other lifestyle and environmental factors.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES


Performs a variety of administrative support which may include scheduling, booking travel, expense processing and purchasing.
Compiles, coordinate and assist in the collection, processing and submission of data.
Prepares reports and other documentation as requested by area.
Creates and maintains accurate documents and records.
The responsibilities listed are a general overview of the position and additional duties may be assigned.
TECHNICAL CAPABILITIES
Calendar Maintenance (Novice): The ability to prioritize and maintain a calendar or calendars of scheduled meetings or events. Able to accurately change or update a calendar with no scheduling conflicts.
Document Management (Novice): The use of a computer system and software to store, manage and track electronic documents and electronic images of paper based information captured through the use of a document scanner.
Financial Processes (Fundamental Awareness): Ability to monitor costs, expenses and revenue as well as the ability to manage those costs and expenses in relation to budgeted amounts.
Clerical/Administrative (Novice): Clerical/Administration is a skill which includes most clerical and administrative functions typically carried out by secretaries, administrators and others who perform a clerical role. Among the duties are: Ad Hoc Reporting, Calendar Maintenance, Data Entry, Document Duplication, Document Filing and Maintenance, Document Preparation, Employee Record Maintenance, Employee Time Recording, Faxing and Electronic Mailing, Inventory Management, Mail Sorting and Distribution, Meeting Coordination and Scheduling, Message Management, Receptionist Tasks, Special Projects, Spreadsheet Preparation, Travel Arrangements, and Word Processing and Typing.
Data Verification (Novice): The ability to verify data in an accurate manner.
Human Resources Policies and Procedures (Fundamental Awareness): Knowledge, adherence and application of human resources policies and procedures.

Our professional administrative functions include critical supporting roles in information technology and informatics, finance, administration, legal and community affairs, human resources, communications and marketing, development, facilities, and many more.

At our growing health system, we support each other and encourage excellence among all who are part of our workforce. High-achieving employees stay at Vanderbilt Health for professional growth, appreciation of benefits, and a sense of community and purpose.

    Core Accountabilities:

    * Organizational Impact: Performs tasks that are typically routine that may impact team's performance with occasional guidance. * Problem Solving/ Complexity of work: Utilizes some discretion and research to solve routine problems. * Breadth of Knowledge: Applies knowledge of standards, established processes and procedure that apply to your own job. * Team Interaction: Provides guidance to entry level co-workers.

    Core Capabilities :

    Supporting Colleagues : Develops Self and Others: Continuously improves own skills by identifying development opportunities.- Builds and Maintains Relationships: Seeks to understand colleagues' priorities, working styles and develops relationships across areas.- Communicates Effectively: Openly shares information with others and communicates in a clear and courteous manner. Delivering Excellent Services: - Serves Others with Compassion: Invests time to understand the problems, needs of others and how to provide excellent service.- Solves Complex Problems: Seeks to understand issues, solves routine problems, and raises proper concerns in a timely manner. - Offers Meaningful Advice and Support: Listens carefully to understand the issues and provides accurate information and support. Ensuring High Quality: - Performs Excellent Work: Checks work quality before delivery and asks relevant questions to meet quality standards. - Fulfills Safety and Regulatory Requirements: Demonstrates basic knowledge of conditions that affect safety and reports unsafe conditions to the appropriate person or department. Managing Resources Effectively : - Demonstrates Accountability: Takes responsibility for completing assigned activities and thinks beyond standard approaches to provide high-quality work/service. - Stewards Organizational Resources: Displays understanding of how personal actions will impact departmental resources. - Makes Data Driven Decisions: Uses accurate information and good decision making to consistently achieve results on time and without error. Fostering Innovation : - Generates New Ideas: Willingly proposes/accepts ideas or initiatives that will impact day-to-day operations by offering suggestions to enhance them. - Applies Technology: Absorbs new technology quickly; understands when to utilize the appropriate tools and procedures to ensure proper course of action. - Adapts to Change: Embraces changes by keeping an open mind to changing plans and incorporates change instructions into own area of work.

    Position Qualifications:

    Responsibilities:

    Certifications:

    Work Experience:

    Relevant Work Experience

    Experience Level:

    2 years

    Education:

    High School Diploma or GED

    This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact within Vanderbilt Health, supported by a comprehensive benefits package which mayinclude health, disability, retirement and/or wellness offerings to enhance your well-being and professional growth.

    Vanderbilt Health is committed tofosteringan environment where everyone has the chance to thrive and is committed to the principles of equal opportunity. EOE/Vets/Disabled.


    What Vanderbilt University Medical Center employees say

    Pay

    Benefits

    Hours and flexibility

    Workplace

    Get the full story on Breakroom