SanI/EPSI

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS • Amarillo, TX

10d • $4,252 - $4,999 • Onsite

About The Position

The Dept of State Health Services (DSHS) is seeking a skilled and dedicated individual to join their Food & Drug department as a Sanitarian I. This position, also known as Environmental Protection Specialist I (understaffed Sanitarian I), will primarily focus on inspecting various facilities to ensure compliance with public health standards related to milk and dairy products. The role involves conducting technical equipment tests, collecting samples for laboratory analysis, performing surveillance activities, and investigating complaints and special investigations such as aflatoxin, pesticide, and antibiotic residues, as well as food-borne illnesses. The position requires initiative, independent judgment, and the ability to take regulatory action when necessary. The employee will also be responsible for preparing and submitting reports, participating in disaster response, and potentially providing formal training to industry personnel. This is a regular, full-time position located in Amarillo, Texas, with up to 70% travel required.

Requirements

• Must pass the Texas Registered Sanitarian Examination within six (6) months from the initial date of employment.
• Registered Sanitarian status must be obtained within (2) years of the date of employment.
• Possess a valid Texas driver’s license, or equivalent license from another state.
• Knowledge of the theory and practical applications of disciplines to include microbiology, biology, chemistry, epidemiology, statistics, thermodynamics, nutrition, and food toxicology.
• Knowledge and skill in selecting, adapting, and applying investigative methods and negotiating techniques to conduct complete and professional Milk and Dairy inspections.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of environmental sanitation.
• Knowledge of state and federal laws, ordinances, rules and regulations, and standards pertaining to milk and dairy products.
• Knowledge of Pasteurization; knowledge of the structure and functions of public health organizations.
• Knowledge of community interrelationships and of current social and economic problems pertaining to public health.
• Skill in inspecting and testing pasteurization equipment and collecting samples.
• Skill in verbal and written communication, including writing detailed technical reports.
• Skill in word processing, database, and spreadsheet software for submission of written correspondence, reports and presentations.
• Skill to make appropriate field decisions and to plan how the investigation should proceed to resolve difficult and sensitive situations.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to plan and execute projects and activities with limited supervision.
• Ability to deal tactfully and effectively with the public and regulated industry.
• Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely and address groups effectively.
• Ability to exercise initiative and balanced independent judgment in evaluating situations and making decisions.
• Ability to carry at least 50 pounds; push/pull 100 pounds; use safety equipment; climb ladders, catwalks, and stairs; and work in confined spaces during inspections and be able to stand for long periods of time.
• Ability to provide transportation.
• Ability to communicate intelligently with staff, regulated industry, the media, and the general public.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of information and documents where appropriate.
• Ability to work outside of normal duty hours to include overnight travel and to adjust work week to accommodate workload, and to be available for emergency or disaster response involving food (24 hours on call).
• Ability to travel as needed to satisfy program needs.
• Graduation from an accredited college/university, or foreign education that has been determined to be equivalent by an acceptable education evaluator of recognized standing. A Bachelor's degree in public health, food and nutrition, or a natural, basic, environmental, animal science or other science discipline with at least 30 semester hours in basic science or natural science or any combination.
• Must be available to work hours other than M-F/8-5.
• Experience in food safety inspection work.

Nice To Haves

• One year of experience in Milk Plant and/or Dairy Farm Processing is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Inspects assigned facilities at required frequencies to determine compliance with the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance, the Frozen Dessert Manufacturers Act, the Standards for the Fabrication of Single Service Containers and Closures for Milk Products, and the Retail Raw Milk Ordinance.
• Conducts required technical equipment tests on pasteurization systems as specified by the most current edition of the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance as needed.
• May provide formal training, evaluation, and certification of industry personnel for industry sealing of pasteurization equipment.
• Maintains required level of proficiency.
• Submits accurate and detailed reports as necessary.
• Initiates regulatory actions as appropriate.
• Conducts disaster investigations and truck wreck accidents involving perishable food products.
• Investigates complaints involving milk and dairy products and prepares detailed reports of findings.
• Collects samples of finished products, single service containers, raw milk, water, chilled water, and glycol to submit to the appropriate laboratories for analysis at required frequencies.
• Conducts sampling surveillance activities including formal training, testing and field evaluation of certified samplers, receivers, and milk haulers annually.
• Conducts special investigations as necessary to include aflatoxin, pesticides and antibiotic residues, added water adulteration, and food-borne illnesses.
• Collects appropriate samples for laboratory analysis; prepares reports of findings; and makes recommendations for regulatory action.
• Responds to public requests for information and inquiries relative to the mission of the Milk and Dairy Surveillance Section.
• Completes travel reports, monthly activity reports, time sheets, and other reports as required in the performance of official duties, submitted accurately and in a timely manner according to policy.
• Participates in available educational programs and training (training locations can be located out of state).
• Safe operation of either a state-owned vehicle, rental vehicle or personal vehicle is required to conduct state business and acceptable driving record must be maintained.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Use of safety equipment is required.

Benefits

• Insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS).

What This Job Offers

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