Medical Marijuana Epidemiologist & Outreach Specialist

The Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority (OMMA) is seeking a full-time Medical Marijuana Epidemiologist & Outreach Specialist. This is a state position governed by the Civil Service Rules, in state government located in Oklahoma City, OK.  OMMA offers a comprehensive benefits packet, including a generous benefit allowance to offset the cost of insurance premiums for employees and their eligible dependents. The annual salary range for this position is $75,000-$85,000, based on education and experience. 

Every position at OMMA brings an opportunity to build out new policies and procedures using innovative and creative problem-solving. With any opportunity, challenges rear their heads. Candidates must be willing to apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to tackle challenges in order to succeed at OMMA. We are an agency that will not settle for status quo or complacency. Candidates must be willing to work hard to help OMMA be the best at what we are entrusted to do.  

 

If this sounds like a challenge you are willing to take on, we look forward to reviewing your application!

Basic Purpose

The Medical Marijuana Epidemiologist & Outreach Specialist leads data-driven initiatives to monitor, evaluate, and improve public health outcomes related to medical marijuana use. Through the assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of evidence-based health education and prevention programs, this role advances community health. It also supports evidence-based policymaking by integrating epidemiological surveillance, investigation, and health promotion strategies with rigorous research.

Typical Functions

• Conducts comprehensive needs assessments at individual, organizational, and community levels using epidemiological methods and health behavior theory to determine appropriate programmatic interventions.
• Designs and implements epidemiological studies and surveillance systems to monitor patterns, health behaviors, and program effectiveness.
• Participates in community investigations, special studies, and descriptive and analytic research relating to marijuana.
• Conducts strategic planning with stakeholders to address health issues, develop infrastructure, and apply evidence-based intervention strategies.
• Develops and adapts and oversees health education curricula and health promotion programs based on epidemiological findings and community health data, ensuring program fidelity and population impact.
• Establishes and maintains partnerships with healthcare providers, community organizations, and agencies to address health priorities through integrated surveillance and education approaches.
• Coordinates and evaluates surveillance activities and community-based health promotion initiatives.
• Provides consultation to healthcare professionals, community organizations, and stakeholders on disease prevention, health promotion, and risk reduction strategies.
• Evaluates the effectiveness of integrated health education and epidemiological programs using appropriate statistical methods and makes evidence-based program modifications.
• Prepares technical reports, scientific articles, and educational materials for diverse audiences including healthcare professionals, policymakers, and public audiences.
• Delivers presentations and lectures to various organizations on health issues, prevention, and health promotion strategies.
• Conveys complex health information to public audiences.
• Assists in the development of grant proposals and research protocols that integrate epidemiological surveillance with health education interventions.
• Interprets epidemiological data to determine health risks and develops appropriate educational responses.
• Mentors agency staff and provides training opportunities in both epidemiological methods and health education practices.
• Other duties as assigned.
  
  

Education And Experience

Education and Experience requirements at this level consist of a master’s degree in Epidemiology and one year of experience in a field involving the use of epidemiological research, investigation, and analysis or a doctorate in epidemiology.

Preferred Qualifications

Two years of experience in public health practice involving epidemiological investigation and analysis, as well as the development and implementation of health education or promotion programs.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities And Competencies

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities required at this level include knowledge of epidemiology methods, human biology, laboratory methods, environmental analyses interpretation, parasitology, toxicology, immunology and pathology; of medical terminology; of statistical analysis, biometry, and demography; of epidemiological or statistical software; of social and economic conditions; of current epidemiological developments and techniques; and of environmental toxicology, intervention strategies, diagnostic laboratory methods, and medical microbiology. Ability is required to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others; to meet with the public and conduct public information programs; to write technical and non-technical information material; to use a personal computer and applicable software; and to manipulate large databases.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Work is typically performed in an office setting with climate-controlled settings and exposure to moderate noise levels. While performing the duties of the job, employee is required to talk, stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms.  This position requires long periods of sitting and daily use of computer and phone.         

Special Requirements

Applicants must be willing and able to perform all job-related travel normally associated with this position and possess a valid driver’s license.

PLEASE NOTE: You are ineligible for OMMA employment if you are: an individual that has a direct or indirect interest in a licensed medical marijuana business; an individual who has or whose spouse, parent, child, spouse of a child, sibling, or spouse of a sibling has an application for a medical marijuana business license pending before the Department; a member of the board of directors of a medical marijuana business; or an individual financially interested in any licensee or medical marijuana business.