Sanitarian I

Calhoun County Government • Battle Creek, MI

6d • Hybrid

About The Position

Under the general direction of the Program Supervisor, the Sanitarian I conducts and assists with permit issuance, complaint investigations, water sample collection, food service establishment inspections, and enforcement of the Calhoun County Sanitation and Food Codes and applicable state and federal rules and regulations. The anticipated start date is January 4, 2027, or later; the County cannot accommodate an earlier start date.

The role includes conducting inspections, evaluations, and plan reviews; issuing sewage disposal and well permits and temporary food licenses; assessing land for onsite sewage disposal; evaluating water laboratory data; providing environmental health education; and assisting with foodborne disease outbreaks and other environmental investigations. The Sanitarian I also coordinates with other agencies and departments, prepares written and oral reports, serves on committees, assists with FOIA requests, participates in quality programs and emergency exercises, and pursues professional development.

This is a hybrid-eligible position with a flexible-schedule classification. Work takes place in both office and field environments and involves daily travel between county locations. The position may involve exposure to loud noise, fumes, odors, dust, dirt, molds, wet or dry conditions, infectious disease, and bloodborne pathogens. On-call emergency response may be required, along with extended workdays, weekends, or holidays. The position may also involve threatening people or other dangerous situations. The wage range is $28.86–$36.22 USD.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree with 30 semester hours of basic science coursework.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to provide courteous and accurate information, including in stressful situations for families.
• Good computer skills, including regular email communication and collecting data on electronic forms or formatted spreadsheets.
• Ability to handle simultaneous projects requiring concentration and attention to detail amid frequent interruptions.
• Ability to frequently climb and/or kneel and periodically stoop or bend.
• Ability to frequently walk and/or stand for extended periods, perform repetitive movements, and work in confined areas.
• Valid Michigan driver’s license, acceptable driving record, personal vehicle, and proof of vehicle insurance.
• Availability for on-call response to emergencies; extended workdays and weekends or holidays may be required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct required inspections, evaluations, and plan reviews as determined by state law or local regulation.
• Issue sewage disposal permits, well permits, and temporary food licenses, and evaluate special cases for resolution.
• Enforce the Calhoun County Sanitation Code and other authorized rules and regulations.
• Enforce applicable aspects of the Safe Drinking Water Act for non-community well water supplies.
• Investigate complaints.
• Evaluate state and private water laboratory data for compliance with state and EPA water quality standards.
• Evaluate vacant land for onsite sewage disposal suitability and issue a written report.
• Provide environmental health public education.
• Assist with foodborne disease outbreaks and other environmental investigations.
• Assist local and state agencies on matters affecting public health and residents’ welfare.
• Communicate and coordinate with departments and local and state programs through written and oral reports.
• Serve on local and state committees.
• Assist in processing Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests.
• Participate in team and general staff meetings.
• Participate in public health quality programs, including Quality Improvement, Quality Assurance, and Quality Control.
• Participate in required emergency exercises and training.
• Assess professional development needs and participate in education to increase job-related knowledge and skills.
• Follow established policies and procedures and maintain client confidentiality.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Paid time off: 6.47 hours per pay period for hourly employees or 4.2 weeks annually for salaried employees.
• 14 paid holidays per year.
• Hybrid work and flexible scheduling for eligible positions.
• 401(k) retirement plan with up to 7% County match.
• Near-site clinic offering preventive and primary care with on-site medications.
• Tuition reimbursement of up to $3,000 annually.
• Health and retirement plans and opportunities for professional growth.

What This Job Offers

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