Navigating the Public Health Job Market

Illustration: Jozef Micic/shutterstock.com 

By Kelly Jordan

To gain a better sense of what the current public health job market looks like, we sat down with Srdjan Popovic, executive director of professional development and career planning at Rollins for his insights and advice. 

Talk about what trends you’re currently seeing in the public health job market this week (February 26).

The short answer is, when some doors close, others remain open. Pursue those doors that are open. If we look at the jobs overall in the United States, we're still at a low unemployment rate. While the federal level is closed to a good extent—for now at least—state and local levels are still alive and well.

If someone is currently looking in the government space, I’d encourage them to be flexible and go into a different area until there is an opportunity for them down the road and they're able to make that shift.

What are some of those other areas for public health professionals?

The largest sector for employment of students of public health in the country is in hospital and health care settings. That's a huge sector. There are also opportunities in the private sector, pharma, consulting, and nonprofits.

For those who are job seeking and aren’t quite sure what type of role to look for, could you suggest a few typical job titles Rollins students land after graduation?

Health scientist, clinical research coordinator, evaluation fellow program analyst, program coordinator, project coordinator, research assistant, research associate, epidemiologist, clinical research coordinator, data analyst, surveillance officer, consultant, and project manager are just a few. Though I would note that public health skills can translate to non-traditional jobs too. Every organization can benefit from the skillset public health professionals possess. Those skills are interdisciplinary.

Speaking of skills. What should public health professionals emphasize on their resumes?

When looking for jobs, don’t limit yourself to a title. See if your skills match. Public health graduates are strong in evaluation, program development, assessment, communication, and project management. Look for those positions.

What’s a common mistake you see among job-seekers?

I often see people disqualify themselves from a position because they don’t possess all of the skills listed in the job posting. The sweet spot for hiring managers is actually 50%. So, if you are 50% eligible for the job and you meet the requirements, go for it.

Any advice for how to make your application stand out when you don’t have an immediate “in” with a company?

My biggest piece of advice is one word: intentionality. Customize your application to what they’re looking for as much as possible. Highlight those skills in the job posting in your cover letter and resume. If there is a cover letter requirement, do not use ChatGPT. You can use AI for help with structuring your letter, but stop there. Write the best letter you can and make it sound like you. Check everything for typos.

I’d suggest submitting your application within one to three days of the job post date. Generally speaking, the first applicants have a stronger chance of getting the job.

At the same time, if you miss the application window for a job you really want, don’t give up. I’d still apply and see if you have a contact at the organization who can tell the hiring manager about you.

Popovic and team members within the Professional Advancement & Student Experience Center offer a wide range of professional services to students and Rollins alumni, including interview prep, cover letter review, job search help, negotiation advice, career fairs, and more. Learn more about their services for students and alumni.