Description

Under the direction of the Health Officer, the Environmental Health Specialist, as a Registered Sanitarian, has the authority and responsibility to conduct inspections of food service, lodging, vending, swimming, camping, recreational-educational camp, tattoo, and body piercing facilities, and lead risk assessments using applicable health and safety statutes and administrative codes.

This position may be responsible for implementing assigned programs and projects within the Health Department’s Certified Public Health Laboratory, conducting chemical and/or microbiological analyses, and assisting with education and outreach activities.

This position requires adherence to the technical guidelines established by the applicable regulatory authority. This position is expected to accurately and efficiently complete work in accordance with applicable Standard Operating Procedures, quality assurance manuals, and safety protocols. Work is performed in both laboratory and office settings, as well as in the field.

Based on 40 hours per week, non-exempt, limited-term position with full benefits eligibility. Continued employment is probable based on operational needs. 2026 Salary: $27.89 – $30.09 per hour

Douglas County offers a competitive benefits package including, but not limited, to:

Annual wage increase based on eligibility
Paid, on-the-job training and advancement opportunities
85% county contribution to health and dental premiums
Health Saving Account (HSA) available to all employees enrolled in the county's medical plan, with annual contributions provided by the employer and the health plan
Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS)- One of the leading retirement systems in the nation- Contributions are paid according to current year rates set by Wisconsin Department of Employee Trust Funds (refer to www.etf.wi.gov for further detail)
County paid life insurance policy with coverage equivalent to annual salary (affordable Supplemental, Additional, and Spousal/Dependent life insurance available at employee’s expense)
Competitive paid time off including vacation, sick time, personal days and holidays
Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) qualifying employer

Essential Duties

Investigates (including sample procurement), documents and initiates corrective action regarding public health nuisances, consumer complaints, housing complaints, lead risk assessments and rabies control.
Performs inspection and investigation related to complaints of suspect foodborne, waterborne, vectorborne illnesses or potential human health hazards in accordance with WI State Statutes, partnering with Public Health, Human Services and Law Enforcement when necessary.
Performs sanitary surveys, water sampling and inspections of county establishments which the Health Department has regulatory authority over to determine compliance with the applicable laws, regulations and ordinances.
Conducts plan reviews, issues permits and assists license/permit applicants in the interpretation of local and state codes.
Implements outreach and educational campaigns designed to cultivate a better understanding of the principles of Environmental Health.
Maintains records and reports of official activities and performs other related work as assigned by the Health Officer.
Participates in public health preparedness planning and response to emergency events including acts of terrorism, hazardous material spills/releases, extreme weather events and communicable disease outbreaks.
Performs other duties of similar nature or level.

*Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Environmental Health, or Physical or Biological Sciences or related degree and six months of employment in the field of environmental health sanitation preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above. Current certification as a Registered Sanitarian preferred. If not currently certified, must be eligible to obtain the Registered Sanitarian credential within one year, or as determined upon hire.

Supplemental Information

Required Competencies

Communicates clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing, ensures understanding, and conveys information accurately.
Collaborates effectively with colleagues, contributes to group efforts, and fosters a cooperative and supportive work environment to achieve common goals.
Takes responsibility for actions and decisions, follows through on commitments, and ensures tasks are completed accurately and on time.
Makes informed and timely decisions, evaluates options thoroughly, and takes responsibility for outcomes.
Demonstrates a strong awareness of safety protocols, promotes a safe work environment, and ensures compliance with safety regulations.

Working Conditions
This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines. Individuals in this position may be required to interact with community members in a variety of settings including homes and businesses.

Physical Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Balancing, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, fingering, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing. Medium Work: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and / or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and / or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

Testing Requirements
Testing may be administered to assess skills and abilities necessary to perform the essential duties of this position. Structured interview, references and/or background investigation.

Douglas County is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer

Douglas County

New Jobs

Environmental Health Specialist