🏢 About NNPHD
Learn about our mission, team, and values.
What is Public Health?
Public health is the science of protecting and improving the health of people and their communities. This work is achieved by promoting healthy lifestyles, researching disease and injury prevention, and detecting, preventing, and responding to infectious diseases.
Unlike medical care, which focuses on treating individuals who are already sick, public health focuses on populations — preventing problems from happening or recurring through education, policy, research, and community-based programs.
Prevent
We work to prevent disease, injury, and disability before they occur through education, screenings, and vaccination.
Promote
We promote healthy behaviors, safe environments, and access to quality healthcare for everyone in our region.
Protect
We protect our communities from health threats including disease outbreaks, unsafe food, and environmental hazards.
Partner
We partner with schools, employers, healthcare providers, and community organizations to build a healthier region.
At NNPHD, we work every day to ensure that Cedar, Dixon, Thurston, and Wayne counties have access to the services, information, and resources needed for healthy lives.
Our Mission
“To protect and promote the health and well-being of all people in Northeast Nebraska through prevention, education, and equitable access to public health services.”
Who We Are
The Northeast Nebraska Public Health Department (NNPHD) is a local governmental public health agency serving a multi-county region in Northeast Nebraska. We are accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB), meaning our programs and services meet national standards for quality and performance.
Our staff of approximately 20 public health professionals delivers essential services including disease surveillance, vaccine clinics, chronic disease prevention, environmental health inspections, and emergency preparedness planning.
20+ Staff
We protect our communities from health threats including disease outbreaks, unsafe food, and environmental hazards.
4 Counties
Proudly serving Cedar, Dixon, Thurston, and Wayne counties in Northeast Nebraska.
PHAB Accredited
Nationally recognized for meeting rigorous public health standards.
Our Staff
Our team of dedicated public health professionals serves Cedar, Dixon, Thurston, and Wayne counties. For general inquiries, call our main office at (402) 375-2200.
Oral Health
Dental screenings, cleanings, fluoride, and education at no cost.
To reach a staff member by email, please call (402) 375-2200 or visit our office at 801 Milo Drive, Wayne, NE 68787. You can also send a general message through our contact form.
Board of Health
The Board of Health plays a vital role in guiding our health department’s mission to protect and improve community health. As a governing body, the Board provides oversight, sets public health policies, and ensures our department is effectively serving the needs of the community.
Responsibilities of the Board of Health
- Establishing public health policies to address local health concerns
- Overseeing health department programs and services
- Ensuring compliance with state and local health regulations
- Approving budgets and funding for public health initiatives
- Advocating for community health improvements
Meet Our Board Members
Board Officers
Jim Rabe
President
Wayne County Commissioner
Dr. Melissa Dobbins, MD
Vice President
Katie Peterson
Secretary
Thurston County Representative
Dr. Melissa Heithold, DVM
Treasurer
Cedar County
Mike Meier
Commissioner
Jeremy Christiansen
Representative
Dixon County
Mike Meier
Commissioner
Traci Haglund
Representative
Thurston County
Dr. Christine Dregalla, DDS
Board of Health Dentist
Georgia Mayberry
Representative
Katie Peterson
Representative
Wayne County
Jim Rabe
Commissioner
Nicole Haglund
Representative
Board Meetings
The Board of Health holds regular meetings to discuss public health issues, review department activities, and make decisions that impact community well-being. Meetings are open to the public, and community members are encouraged to attend and stay informed.
Meeting Schedule: Check local newspapers and NNPHD social media for meeting dates.
Location: To be announced (TBD)
For more information, contact: NNPHD at (402) 375-2200
Employment Opportunities
Northeast Nebraska Public Health Department is committed to building a strong, passionate team dedicated to improving public health in our region. We offer rewarding careers where you can make a real difference in the lives of residents in Cedar, Dixon, Thurston, and Wayne counties.
Why Work at NNPHD?
Meaningful Work
Every day, our work directly protects and improves the health of our neighbors and communities.
Growth & Development
Opportunities for continuing education, professional certifications, and career advancement.
Collaborative Team
Work alongside dedicated professionals committed to a shared public health mission.
Community Impact
Serve a 4-county region and be part of evidence-based, community-driven health initiatives.
Benefits
NNPHD offers a competitive benefits package including:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Retirement plan with employer contribution
- Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, and holidays)
- Continuing education support and professional development
- Life insurance and disability coverage
- Employee assistance program
Current Openings
For a current list of open positions, please call our office at (402) 375-2200 or check back on this page. Positions are posted as they become available.
How to Apply
To apply for a position with NNPHD:
- Download and complete the NNPHD Employment Application
- Prepare a current resume and cover letter describing your interest in the position
- Include contact information for at least three professional references
- Submit your completed application packet by email, mail, or in person
Submit Your Application
By Email
Email your application to info@nnphd.ne.gov
By Mail
Mail to: NNPHD — Attn: Hiring 801 Milo Drive Wayne, NE 68787
In Person
Drop off at our office during business hours: Monday–Thursday, 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Questions?
Call us at (402) 375-2200 — we're happy to help.
Equal Opportunity Employer: NNPHD is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basisof race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status.
🏢 About Us
📍 Hours & Location
🕐 Office Hours
Monday8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Tuesday8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Wednesday8:00 AM – 5:30
PMThursday8:00 AM – 5:30PM
FridayClosed
SaturdayClosed
SundayClosed
Main Office 801 Milo Drive, Wayne, NE 68787
Phone (402) 375-2200