Health Protection Scientist

Bernalillo County•Albuquerque, NM

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Health Protection Scientist performs professional-level inspection, education, and compliance services to enforce a wide range of environmental health codes. Works with diverse populations and delivers excellent customer service to the public, external clients, and County employees.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Physical, Natural, Environmental Science, or a related field.
Two (2) years of work experience in environmental health, code enforcement, food protection, and/or inspection.
Possession of a valid New Mexico driver’s license by the date of hire and maintenance of a valid license while employed in this position.

Nice To Haves

Advanced certification from National Swimming Pool Foundation as a certified pool operator obtained within nine (9) months from date of hire.
Successful completion of Food Protection Manager Certification of equivalent within nine (9) months from date of hire.
Successful completion of a post-offer employment medical examination and background investigation.
Adherence to all County safety guidelines.
Complete all FEMA training(s) assigned to this position.
Complete required supervisor training, if applicable.

Responsibilities

Assists with on-site facility inspections and conducts field investigations under the guidance of a Health Protection Scientist II; ensures compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and codes; authorizes permits to support sanitation and code compliance.
Enforces laws and regulations related to public swimming pools, food processing and service establishments, general health and sanitation, and noise control.
Investigates routine environmental complaints and recommends corrective actions; prepares written reports outlining methods to protect public health.
Collects field samples and public health-related data for laboratory analysis or trend evaluation.
Prepares and presents reports summarizing inspection results and analysis findings; delivers presentations to clients, agencies, community forums, the general public, and County departments.
Conducts routine site visits and inspections performed by the Health Protection team; reviews operational plans for food service and food processing establishments.
Prepares and coordinates environmental health cases scheduled for court hearings.
Interprets and explains environmental health ordinances, rules, and procedures; respond to inquiries from the public.
Develops, delivers, and evaluates public health education programs focused on preventing environmental and communicable diseases.
Collaborates with private organizations and government agencies to improve environmental health practices and safeguard public health.
Prepares reports, correspondence, and maintains records of inspections and investigations.
Handles sensitive or confidential records, plans, and decisions; maintains confidentiality in accordance with policy and regulations.