Environmental Health Specialist I - Food

Benton Franklin Health District • Kennewick, WA

7d • Onsite

About The Position

This position focuses on the Food Safety Program within Environmental Health. Primary duties involve all aspects of food protection, including inspections of food establishments and schools, enforcement actions, and plan reviews. The role also encompasses environmental health education, vector control, living environment assessments, and managing chemical and physical hazards. Additionally, responsibilities include water supply, solid waste management, swimming pools, animal bites, general sanitation, and interpreting local and state regulations. The specialist will also handle various other environmental health activities as required by the classification.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree involving a major study in biology, microbiology, bacteriology and public health, or environmental health.
• Eligible for registration with the Washington State Board of Registered Sanitarians.
• Performance of job duties requires driving on a regular basis.
• Valid Washington State driver's license.
• Use of the incumbent's personal motor vehicle when a District fleet vehicle is not available for use.
• Proof of appropriate auto insurance.
• Must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 or have an approved medical/religious accommodation by time of hire.

Nice To Haves

• Bilingual Spanish preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform health and safety inspections and investigations in food establishments and schools; complete follow up enforcement action where required.
• Draft inspection reports, letters, and other records.
• Respond to public health emergency drills/exercises or actual events as required.
• Understand, apply, and explain regulations and enforcement procedures to industry members and general public.
• Maintain accurate and complete records and enter results into a computer database.
• Review construction and operating plans to ensure compliance with regulations for food establishments and K-12 schools.
• 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 routine food worker card education in a classroom setting.
• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level