Environmental Health Specialist I

The Environmental Health Specialist I at Benton Franklin Health District in Kennewick, WA, is responsible for inspections, evaluations, and permitting related to sewage, solid waste, and environmental health. Duties include public education, site inspections, and compliance with regulations. Candidates need a relevant Bachelor's degree and a valid driver's license. The role requires interaction with the public and may involve unusual work schedules during public health emergencies.
Environmental Health Specialist I

(Solid Waste)

The Position

GENERAL SUMMARY: Primary duties may include inspection, evaluation, review and permitting activities related to the on-site sewage program, solid waste program, environmental health education, vector control, living environment, epidemiology, chemical and physical hazards, land use, water supply, swimming pools, animal bites, food protection, general sanitation and interpreting local and state regulations. Other duties may include a range of activities in the environmental health field as required and related to the classification of an Environmental Health Specialist.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
• Work with a diverse group of public health personnel to serve the needs of our citizens
• Consult, educate and disseminate information regarding environmental health issues to the public
• Review, evaluate and inspect sites for the use of onsite sewage systems
• Review, evaluate and inspect small water systems
• Investigate and identify corrective actions in response to complaints of illegal dumping
• Investigate animal bites
• Inspect, and evaluate public water recreation facilities
• Review, and evaluate proposed projects from partner agencies providing comments on environmental impacts
• Actively participate in the review of pertinent rules and regulations
• Work with the public in a courteous manner in situations which can be confrontational or hostile
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing
• Work with various cultural and ethnic groups in a tactful and effective manner
• Maintain confidentiality as required, and handle sensitive information appropriately
• Potentially work unusual or prolonged work schedules in the event of public health emergency
• Potentially collect and/or help ship biological or laboratory specimens
• Provide education to a variety of individuals or groups on health-related issues, regulations, policies, and standards
• Understand the use of various test sampling, monitoring, measuring and laboratory supplies and equipment and specialized protective gear as needed
• Search for advanced knowledge of environmental health principles and practices
• Prioritize and schedule work to ensure completion of inspection requirements
• Other duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of communicable diseases, their means of transmission and methods of control, principles of foodborne disease transmission and control, principles of vector control, principles of sewage treatment and disposal, principles of general sanitation and environmental law. Ability to interpret regulations, explain disease control and inspection methods to laymen; write clear narrative reports; and deal with the public in a courteous and mature manner.

The Requirements & Selection Process

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's Degree involving a major study in biology, microbiology, bacteriology and public health, or environmental health. Successful applicants should be eligible for registration with the Washington State Board of Registered Sanitarians. Bilingual Spanish desirable.

Additional Requirements: Performance of job duties requires driving on a regular basis, a valid Washington State driver's license, the use of the incumbent's personal motor vehicle when a District fleet vehicle is not available for use, and proof of appropriate auto insurance.

COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement Information, in accordance with Washington State Governor's Proclamation 21.14.2, as a condition of employment, BFHD employees must be fully vaccinated or have an approved medical/religious accommodation by time of hire. People are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after receiving their final dose in a vaccine series. Vaccine or an approved accommodation will be verified prior to first day of work. Should you not be fully vaccinated or have an approved medical/religious accommodation you will not be able to start employment with BFHD. Please contact Human Resources at Dept.HumanResources.Members@bfhd.wa.gov if you have questions.

SELECTION PROCESS: The most qualified applicants, based in part upon evaluation of the completed application and related information will be invited for an interview.

Criminal Background Check required upon candidate selection.

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