Medical Assistant; MA), Jail Health

Job Description

If you’re looking to be a part of a collaborative environment where your skills can make an impact, explore our current opportunities in creating a better future for public health.

Harris County Public Health (HCPH) includes a network of more than 1,100 public health professionals working together to improve health outcomes for the third most populous county in the United States. HCPH provides a multitude of services such as medical and dental services, community programming, and health education for the approximately 2.3 million people in unincorporated Harris County. Through its core values of innovation, engagement, and health equity, HCPH strives to bring meaningful solutions to public health issues while keeping Harris County healthy and vibrant.

Under the supervision of the Director of Nursing and authority of the medical director for Harris County Public Health:
Community Health & Wellness Division, this Medical Assistant:
Jail Health position supports court-mandated testing requirements within the legal and correctional systems. The role involves collecting biological samples for laboratory testing, maintaining accurate documentation for legal proceedings, and ensuring all procedures meet legal standards for admissible results. The Medical Assistant works collaboratively with legal professionals, healthcare staff, court personnel, and correctional facility staff to provide timely and accurate court‑ordered testing services for inmates at Harris County Jail.

• Collect various biological samples including urine, blood, and other specimens following strict protocols to ensure accurate and legally admissible results for court‑ordered testing.
• Record test results accurately, maintain meticulous records for legal proceedings, and complete all required forms and legal documentation related to court‑ordered testing.
• Travel to detention facilities and other designated sites for on‑site testing while coordinating with facility staff and legal personnel to ensure proper testing procedures.
• Process laboratory specimens and maintain chain of custody procedures for all collected samples to ensure proper handling and documentation according to legal standards.
• Maintain confidential inmate files and testing records in compliance with legal requirements and prepare reports for court proceedings as required.
• Clean, calibrate, and maintain testing equipment while performing routine quality‑control checks to ensure legal and regulatory compliance for testing procedures.
• Assist with administrative duties related to testing program including scheduling appointments, data entry, and coordination with correctional facilities.

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer

If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274‑5445 or email

This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.

• High School diploma or GED certificate.
• Completion of a standardized program of medical education that provides training in medical assistance patients.

• American Heart Association CPR Certification.
• Basic CPR certification.
• Medical Assistant and CPR certification must be maintained and current for continued employment.
• Valid Texas Driver's License.

• Bilingual (English/Spanish)

• Proficient in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Excellent communication skills (verbal & written).
• Ability to maintain confidentiality when dealing with sensitive information.
• Understanding of legal requirements for evidence collection and chain of custody.
• Ability to work well with teammates and establish effective working relationships.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in documentation.
• Ability to work under pressure and handle sensitive situations professionally.

• Understands the organizational mission.
• Understands ethics and public good; is concerned with public trust.
• Demonstrates respect for the opinions and beliefs…