Environmental Health Specialist I/II

Malheur County•251 B Street W. Vale, OR

14d•Onsite

About The Position

This position performs a variety of survey and investigational duties in the field of environmental health to determine compliance with public health laws and administrative rules, and performs related work as required. If the applicant chosen does not meet the qualifications for Environmental Health Specialist II, they must be registered with the State of Oregon as an Environmental Health Specialist Trainee at the time of appointment and would then be hired as Environmental Health Specialist I until receiving their certification as a Registered Environmental Health Specialist. Work is performed under the direction of the Environmental Health Department Director who orally outlines work projects, goals and objectives. Employee works independently to compile and analyze data and resolve questions or problems on the basis of past precedent and interpretation of policy, procedural guidelines and applicable state rules and statutes. The employee confers with the Director as necessary for professional assistance and advice. Work is reviewed for conformance to policy and procedure as established. The first review will be August 3, 2026.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university with at least 45 quarter-hours, or the equivalent semester-hours in science courses relating to environmental health.
Registration with the State of Oregon as an Environmental Health Specialist in accordance with ORS 700.030, at the time of appointment; if applicant does not meet the State of Oregon requirements to obtain an Environmental Health Specialist Registration they must be registered with the State of Oregon as an Environmental Health Specialist Trainee at the time of appointment and have the ability to be certified as a Registered Environmental Health Specialist within 2 years.
Ability to communicate complicated concepts and principles to licensed facility operators and the public.
Use of County vehicle to conduct County Business.
Possession of a valid Driver’s License with a good driving history is required.
A safe and acceptable driving record per County policy must be maintained throughout course of employment.
Considerable knowledge of theory and practices of environmental health; the laws and administrative rules governing the sanitation programs of the state; the equipment used; business practices and techniques of those industries in which the programs are concerned; course work in the following areas, introductory Soil Science, Soil Morphology and Physical Geology or Geomorphology.
Skill in the use of manual surveying equipment; skill in the use of equipment used in water testing, soil, food and disease samples and specimens.
Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships; deal effectively and tactfully with a variety of individuals, including superiors, peers, and the public; make investigations, compile data and present a clear, concise report; promote awareness of, and participation in, the correction of public health problems among the general public; plan and organize work effectively; perform routine, standardized tests and record results; comprehend and interpret laws, rules and regulations.

Nice To Haves

Registered Environmental Health Specialist in the State of Oregon or current registration with the National Environmental Health Association
Past Government Experience
Experience Working with the public
Course work in Soil Science, Soil Morphology and Physical Geology or Geomorphology
Experience working in Environmental or Public Health
Bi-Lingual in Spanish

Responsibilities

Inspects food service establishments to determine compliance with the Oregon Food Sanitation Rules.
Inspects on-site sewage disposal installations; issues permits, enforces regulation of state government pertaining to installations; assists in design, layout and proper installation of facilities.
Inspects licensed swimming pools and checks for compliance with state laws and regulations.
Inspects recreation parks and traveler accommodations to ensure compliance with the Oregon Health Authority sanitation requirements.
Takes food and biological samples for laboratory analysis.
Keeps records of inspections and other activities; prepares reports and recommendations.
Investigates complaints of public nuisances as described in Malheur County Codes.
Assists in surveys of possible health hazards in areas of the County, to monitor the quality and efficiency of water and disposal systems in areas without community water and sewer.
Coordinates with health nurses in conducting epidemiology as it relates to food and waterborne diseases.
Attends state-sponsored conferences and training seminars as required to obtain new information concerning rules, regulations and procedures.
Provides assistance to the public in person and over the phone.
Receive and record fee payments.
Helps at Lytle Boulevard Landfill as needed.
Investigate Animal Bites as required by Oregon Health Authority.
Performs other Public Health inspections that the Director deems necessary, and performs related duties as assigned.
Courteously meet and deal effectively with other employees, department heads, outside agency personnel and the public.
Regular physical attendance at the employer’s facility is required.