Public Health Nurse

Public Health Nurse – RN or BSN

About the Role
The Polk County Health Department is seeking a mission‑driven Public Health Nurse to join our team. In this role, you will promote and protect the health of local residents through community-based nursing services, health education, and collaborative public health initiatives. You will work with individuals, families, and community partners to support both direct care and population-level health efforts.

What You’ll Do

• Assess individual, family, and community health needs; identify those who may benefit from public health services.
• Provide immunizations, health screenings, education, and disease-prevention services. 
• Participate in communicable and chronic disease surveillance and investigations, including outreach to schools, clinics, daycares, and healthcare providers.
• Serve as a public health resource for residents and community organizations; participate in coalitions and public health initiatives.
• Support program development, quality improvement, policy education, and emergency preparedness activities.
• Maintain accurate documentation in the EHR, uphold confidentiality, and follow all state and federal regulations. 

Supervision

• RN: No supervisory responsibilities
• BSN: May provide limited supervision of Public Health Program Assistants during immunization clinics; may mentor student nurses. 

Required Qualifications

• RN track:
  • Associate degree in Nursing; BSN required within 2 years of hire (extensions possible). 
• BSN track:
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing. 

Licenses & Certifications

• Wisconsin Registered Nurse license
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
• Successful completion of criminal and caregiver background checks
• Familiarity with Electronic Health Records and regulatory standards (HIPAA, state/federal requirements).

What We’re Looking For

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse community partners
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities
• Sound judgment, discretion, and critical-thinking skills
• Commitment to equity and serving high‑risk or underserved populations
• Flexibility to support evolving department needs 

Work Environment & Physical Requirements
This role includes office, clinic, and community-based work. Occasional lifting (15–20 lbs.), walking, and travel within Polk County may be required. Employees may encounter varying weather conditions and potential exposure to communicable diseases.