Job Description
The County of Tulare Health & Human Services Agency is recruiting a Public Health Nurse (PHN) I/II to join its Public Health and Child Welfare Services Division.
This role is central to delivering community nursing services that emphasize prevention, early intervention, communicable disease investigation, case management, and health education. PHNs work across diverse settings—department offices, homes, clinics, schools, and through liaison agreements with other agencies.
Duties include assessing individual, family, or community health status; referring clients to appropriate treatment; teaching health concepts; and mobilizing community resources to ensure continuity of care between acute care, extended care, and home.
Qualification
To qualify as a Public Health Nurse I/II with Tulare County, candidates must meet education and experience requirements as outlined in the official announcement. The role requires a valid California Registered Nurse license and a Public Health Nurse certificate.
- Possession of a valid California Registered Nurse (RN) license.
- Possession of a California Public Health Nurse (PHN) certificate.
- For PHN I: One year of professional nursing experience (public health preferred).
- For PHN II: Two years of professional nursing experience, including one year in public health.
- Bachelor's degree in nursing or a related field from an accredited program.
- Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
- Valid California driver's license and acceptable driving record.
- Ability to develop, implement, and interpret policies and procedures.
- Skill in analyzing information, assessing health statuses, and recommending courses of action.
Role Responsibilities
Provide community nursing services focusing on prevention, early intervention, and health education.
- Conduct communicable disease investigation and case management.
- Assess health status of individuals, families, and communities.
- Refer clients to appropriate organizations for treatment and follow-up.
- Demonstrate and teach health concepts to individuals and groups.
- Mobilize community resources to ensure continuity of care.
- Deliver services in homes, clinics, schools, and via liaison agreements.
- Develop and implement policies and procedures related to public health nursing.
- Collaborate with other agencies and organizations to coordinate care.
- Maintain accurate records and documentation of nursing activities.
Conditions & Requirements
Must possess a valid California Registered Nurse license at time of application.
- Must possess a California Public Health Nurse certificate.
- Successful completion of a background investigation.
- Ability to work in various settings including homes, clinics, and schools.
- May require evening or weekend hours for community events.
- Must comply with county immunization and health screening policies.
Benefits
Competitive salary range $92,831
- $118,890 per year.
- Complete health, dental, and vision insurance.
- CalPERS retirement plan.
- Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
- Deferred compensation plan options.
- Employee assistance program.
- Professional development opportunities.
Additional Information
This recruitment establishes an employment list for immediate and future vacancies in Public Health and Child Welfare Services.
- The position is full-time with a salary range of $92,831
- $118,890 per year.
- Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
- Veterans preference may apply; submit DD-214 if claiming preference.
- For questions, contact Tulare County Human Resources at (559) 636-4900.
- Accommodations for disabilities available upon request.
- The county is an equal opportunity employer.
- Candidates should monitor their email for exam scheduling and updates.
About Company
Tulare County is a local government entity in California's Central Valley, serving a diverse population through various departments including Health & Human Services. The agency is committed to promoting community health and well-being through preventive services, education, and case management. The Public Health Nurse role is part of the Health & Human Services Agency, which operates clinics, community programs, and partnerships with schools and other organizations. The division focuses on communicable disease control, maternal-child health, and chronic disease prevention. Working for Tulare County offers stable employment, defined benefits, and the opportunity to make a tangible impact on community health.
FAQs
What is the difference between Public Health Nurse I and II in Tulare County?
PHN I requires one year of professional nursing experience (public health preferred), while PHN II requires two years total with at least one year in public health. Both require a California RN license and PHN certificate.
Can experience substitute for the bachelor's degree requirement?
Yes, an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. Contact Tulare County Human Resources to discuss your specific background.
What does the oral examination involve?
The oral examination is a structured interview that assesses your knowledge, skills, and abilities related to public health nursing. It is weighted 100% for establishing the eligible list.
Is this position remote or onsite?
This is an onsite position. Services are delivered in department offices, homes, clinics, schools, and other community settings. Some fieldwork is required.
What documents are required to apply?
You need a completed online application, supplemental questionnaire, copies of your California RN license and PHN certificate, transcripts (if using education), and a valid California driver's license.
How long is the eligibility list valid?
The eligibility list established from this recruitment is typically valid for six months to one year, depending on county policy. It may be extended or abolished at any time.
Are there opportunities for career advancement?
Yes, Tulare County offers professional development and promotional opportunities within the Health & Human Services Agency, including higher-level nursing and supervisory roles.