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Epidemiologist Substance Use Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Epidemiologist will lead data analyses and collaborate with multidisciplinary team members to evaluate the effectiveness and impact of statewide initiatives aimed at reducing substance use ...

This position specifically focuses on topics related to substance use disorder, and other injury prevention topics as needed. The Epidemiologist is responsible for analysis and presentation of ...

The Epidemiologist will lead data analyses and collaborate with multidisciplinary team members to evaluate the effectiveness and impact of statewide initiatives aimed at reducing substance use ...

This position specifically focuses on topics related to substance use disorder, and other injury prevention topics as needed. The Epidemiologist is responsible for analysis and presentation of ...

This position specifically focuses on topics related to substance use disorder, and other injury prevention topics as needed. The Epidemiologist is responsible for analysis and presentation of ...

... drug use, misuse, and overdose to support evidence-based public health responses. The role includes producing actionable insights from the Controlled Substance and Monitoring Database (CSMD ...

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Epidemiologist Substance Use information

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$45K

$85.2K

$133K

How much do epidemiologist substance use jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for epidemiologist substance use in the United States is $85,222.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,000.00 and $101,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an epidemiologist specializing in substance use do?

An Epidemiologist specializing in Substance Use studies the patterns, causes, and effects of substance use and addiction within populations. They collect and analyze data to understand the prevalence, risk factors, and outcomes associated with the use of substances like alcohol, tobacco, and drugs. Their findings inform public health policies, prevention programs, and interventions aimed at reducing substance-related harm. These professionals often collaborate with healthcare providers, government agencies, and community organizations to address substance use issues.

What are the main challenges an epidemiologist specializing in substance use may face when collecting and analyzing data?

Epidemiologists focused on substance use frequently encounter challenges such as underreporting, stigma, and inconsistent data sources when gathering information on substance use behaviors. These issues can make it difficult to obtain accurate prevalence rates and trends, particularly among marginalized or hard-to-reach populations. To address these challenges, epidemiologists often collaborate with community organizations, employ multiple data collection methods, and use statistical techniques to adjust for potential biases. Successfully navigating these obstacles is crucial for informing public health interventions and policy decisions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an epidemiologist specializing in substance use, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Epidemiologist specializing in Substance Use, you need a strong background in public health, biostatistics, and epidemiological research, typically supported by a master's or doctoral degree in epidemiology or a related field. Familiarity with statistical software such as SAS, SPSS, or R, and experience with disease surveillance systems are critical. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are essential for interpreting data and collaborating with public health stakeholders. These competencies enable accurate analysis of substance use trends, inform prevention strategies, and support effective public health interventions.

What is the difference between Epidemiologist Substance Use vs Epidemiologist Infectious Disease?

AspectEpidemiologist Substance UseEpidemiologist Infectious Disease
Required CredentialsMaster's in Public Health or Epidemiology, relevant certificationsMaster's in Public Health or Epidemiology, relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentPublic health agencies, research institutions, community programsHospitals, public health agencies, research institutions
Employer & Industry UsageFocus on substance use patterns, prevention, and treatmentFocus on disease outbreaks, infection control, and prevention

Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications but differ in focus areas. Epidemiologists Substance Use concentrate on substance-related health issues, while Epidemiologists Infectious Disease focus on controlling and preventing infectious outbreaks. Their work environments and employer types overlap, but their specific expertise and research areas distinguish them.

What other jobs can an epidemiologist substance use do?

An epidemiologist specializing in substance use can work in public health agencies, research institutions, or healthcare organizations, often focusing on data analysis, disease prevention, and policy development. They may also transition into roles such as public health analyst, health educator, or program manager, utilizing skills in statistical software, research methods, and epidemiological principles.

What cities are hiring for Epidemiologist Substance Use jobs?

Cities with the most Epidemiologist Substance Use job openings:

What states have the most Epidemiologist Substance Use jobs?

States with the most job openings for Epidemiologist Substance Use jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Epidemiologist Substance Use jobs?

For Epidemiologist Substance Use jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Epidemiologist Substance Use job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,222 per year, or $41 per hour.

Substance Use Epidemiologist II

Philadelphia, PA

HEALTH FEDERATION OF PHILADELPHIA
Health Care and Social Assistance • 51 - 200 employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Equal Opportunity Employer
The mission of the Health Federation of Philadelphia is to promote community health by advancing access to high-quality, integrated, comprehensive health and human services. We believe in and are firmly committed to equal employment opportunity for employees and applicants. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, age, religion, disability, sex or gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, military or veteran status. This commitment applies to all aspects of the Health Federation of Philadelphia's employment practices, including recruiting, hiring, training, and promotion.

JOB SUMMARY

This position provides epidemiological and analytical data support to the Division of Substance Use Prevention and Harm Reduction (SUPHR) at the Philadelphia Department of Public Health (PDPH). SUPHR's mission is to prevent drug-related deaths and the potential harms associated with drug use by promoting the dignity, autonomy, and health of people who use drugs.

The person filling this position is responsible for leading the collection, management, visualization, and analysis of substance use-related datasets (e.g.overdose mortalitydata,Pennsylvania HealthCare Cost ContainmentCouncil(PHC4)data,surveillance drug checking data, Emergency Medical Services data, etc.). This position will report directly to the Epidemiology Manager and will work closely with other data staff, harm reduction specialists, and Emergency Medical Services staff.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS

Responsibilities/Duties

  • Abstract, clean, and analyze substance-use related datasets.
  • Perform routine data matches between substance use-related datasets.
  • Lead the development and refinement of data visualization activities, including data dashboards and reports, both internal and public-facing.
  • Develop and maintain data collection systems (e.g. REDCap databases).
  • Lead the fulfillment of internal and external requests for data.
  • Obtain and manage Institutional Review Board (IRB) approvals when required.
  • Identify barriers in overdose surveillance efforts, and provide suggestions to improve surveillance, including recommendations for improving data collection processes.
  • Oversee collection and timely reporting of grant-required data submissions.
  • Serve as a representative for grantee teleconferences/meetings.
  • Conduct novel analyses using substance use-related datasets.
  • Assist data staff in analysis and surveillance projects within the unit.
  • Assist in the coordination and management of routine surveillance epidemiology meetings.
  • Provide support to 1-2 student interns and/or entry-level data staff, when applicable.
  • Summarize analytic findings for presentation at scientific conferences and publication in technical and scientific journals.
  • Contribute to reports and presentations for funders, local stakeholders, and city officials.
  • Generate data summaries for public reports, grant applications, and public data requests.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Education/Experience:Completion of a Master of Public Health Degree program at an accredited college or university in Epidemiology or related field that includes a minimum of two graduate level courses in Epidemiology or two comparable graduate level classes in advanced research methodologyAND two graduate level courses in statistics or biostatistics.

Skills/Experience
  • A minimum of 2-5 years of experience as an epidemiologist (or related work) in an academic, public, or private setting.
  • Knowledge of substance use and drug-related terminology.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Experience with database development (REDCap preferred).
  • Experience with mapping software (ArcGIS preferred).
  • Strong data visualization skills, including dashboard and report creation (R, or Tableau preferred)
  • Strong data management and analytical abilities using statistical analysis software (SAS preferred).
  • Knowledge of the principles and procedures of epidemiological research, including study design or epidemiological surveys, theory and application of epidemiological methodologies, principles and methods of biostatistics, and preparation of scientific research reports.
  • Ability to work as part of a team, to prioritize and handle multiple tasks and manage project timelines with a high degree of organizational skill, and to work independently in a high-pressure environment.
  • Ability to analyze and think critically to apply reasonable judgment and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to analyze data and write project proposals and technical reports.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with people contacted in the course of work.
  • Sensitivity to and experience working with ethnically, culturally, and sexually diverse individuals, communities, agencies, and organizations.

Work Environment:Standard office setting with extended periods at workstation and periodic use of office equipment.

Position Type and Work Schedule:Full-time position, typical hours are Monday through Friday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Flex office schedule options available with supervisor's approval.

Travel:Local travel to multiple sites and community meetings a few times a month.

Physical Demands:None

Salary and Benefits:Salary: $70,000 - $75,000/year.Our employees are our most valuable resource, so we offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package, which can include:

  • Medical with vision benefits
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Life, AD&D and long-term care insurance
  • Short- and long-term disability insurance
  • 403(b) Retirement Plan, with a company contribution
  • Paid time off including vacation, sick, personal and holiday.
  • Employee Assistance Program

Eligibility and participation are handled consistent with the plan documents and HFP policy.

DISCLAIMER

The Health Federation reserves the right to modify, interpret, or apply this job description in any way the Company desires.The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by an employee assigned to this position. This job description in no way implies that these are the only duties, including essential duties,responsibilities and/or skills to be performed by the employee occupying this position. This job description is not an employment contract, implied, or otherwise. The employment relationship remains "at will." The aforementioned job requirements are subject to change to reasonably accommodate qualified disabled individuals.