Temporary - Environmental Health Technician I

Benton Franklin Health District•Kennewick, WA

8d•Onsite

About The Position

This is a temporary position within the Pool Program, scheduled from Mid-May to the end of September 2026. Under close supervision, the Environmental Health Technician assists Environmental Health Specialists with routine tasks related to the inspection and enforcement of health and consumer protection laws. The role requires learning and applying knowledge of food, water, and vector-borne communicable diseases, their transmission, and control. Responsibilities may also include other environmental health activities. The position involves frequent weekend work and occasional adjustments to normal working hours.

Requirements

Knowledge of communicable diseases, their means of transmission and methods of control, principles of foodborne disease transmission and control, principles of vector control, principles of general sanitation and environmental law.
Ability to interpret regulations; explain disease control and inspection methods to the public; and write clear narrative reports.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with officials, coworkers, and the public.
Ability to learn and utilize specialized software programs.
Ability to prioritize and schedule work.
Ability to listen attentively and communicate effectively and persuasively, both verbally and in writing, in clear, concise language appropriate for the purpose and parties addressed.
Ability to deal with the public in a courteous manner in situations which can be confrontational or hostile.
Ability to instruct groups or individuals and represent the agency in a professional manner.
Ability to maintain confidentiality as required and manage sensitive information appropriately.
Ability to work with various cultural and ethnic groups in an effective manner.
High School diploma or equivalent.
Satisfactorily completed coursework in Chemistry, Microbiology, or Biology and/or be able to satisfactorily complete related training provided by the District.
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.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree desired.

Responsibilities

Organize, review, and perform health and safety inspections, complete follow-up enforcement action where required.
Investigate foodborne and vector illnesses to prevent spread of communicable disease.
Draft inspection reports, letters, and other records for review.
Maintain accurate and complete records and enter results into a computer database.
Understand, apply, and explain regulations and enforcement procedures, policies and standards to industry members and general public.
Participate in the review of pertinent rules and regulations.
Use of various sampling, monitoring, measuring and laboratory supplies and equipment and specialized protective gear as needed.
Assist with shipping biological or laboratory specimens as needed.
Prioritize and schedule work to ensure completion of inspection requirements.
Respond to public health emergency drills/exercises or actual events as requested.
Other duties as assigned.