If you are looking for a new job as a result of COVID-19, working as a contact tracer could help bridge the gap until the pandemic ends.
Have you ever wondered what safeguards we have against the spread of highly infectious diseases? The answer to this question is an essential group of workers known as contact tracers. Likely, you have never had contact with someone who works in this profession, but they handle many behind-the-scenes tasks that work to manage the spread of infectious diseases such as COVID-19.
In fact, due to COVID-19, demand for this job has increased dramatically.
What is a Contact Tracer?
Contact tracers usually work for health departments and perform a variety of tasks to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. To do their job, they will contact individuals who have an infectious disease (referred to as cases). Next, they will reach out to contacts associated with each case and advise them based on recommendations from health authorities. Performing these actions can help educate the general public and protect those who may have incidental exposure.
Contact Tracer Job Duties
There are three primary components to a contact tracers job on a day-to-day basis.
1. Case Investigation
This is where a contact tracer begins their job. In this phase of the process, the contact tracer will work with a patient with an infectious disease to build a list of people that may have been in contact with the infected individual.
2. Contact Tracing
The next phase of the process is getting in contact with the individuals discovered from the case investigation. The contact tracer must maintain the confidentiality of the person who tested positive for the Infectious Disease.
3. Contact Support
After getting in touch with one of the contacts from the list, the contact tracer will work with them to give them all pertinent information about what they should do, and how they can prevent further spread of the infectious disease.
Contact Tracer Job Requirements and Pay
Qualifications
The qualification criteria for a contact racer job varies depending on geographic location. In general, you don't need to have a highly technical background and a great familiarity with infectious diseases. Typically all that is required is a high school education and a short assessment given by the department hiring for the role. You should contact your local health department to see what the requirements are for your area.
Hours and Salary
Much like the qualifications, compensation for contact tracer jobs can vary depending on need and location. Pay for a contact tracer job ranges between $17 to $25 per hour, and full-time positions can command salaries of up to $65,000 per year.
The jobs can be full or part-time, depending on current demands and situations, though during extreme situations, the hours tend to increase. Contact tracer jobs are very often able to be performed remotely, and may even come with benefits.
Contact Tracer Jobs Make A Difference
If you are a person who is strongly driven by the need to help others, and thrive off a strong sense of purpose in your job, a contact tracer job would provide you the fulfillment you seek.
This job is currently in high demand, with estimates of 100,000 to 300,000 positions needing to be filled quickly. To jump on this opportunity, check out the latest job listings for this position and start the process of getting your new contact tracer job.