Environmental Health Specialist Trainee

Position Overview

Embark on a professional path in Environmental Health by joining the Department of Health Services as an Environmental Health Specialist Trainee. This role is dedicated to protecting public health by performing inspections, investigations, and ensuring compliance across various programs.

Key Duties

• Acquire skills in conducting inspections and investigations in diverse areas such as Food Facilities, Recreational and Cannabis Facilities, Medical Waste, Water Systems, Beach Monitoring, Solid Waste Management, Body Art, Childhood Lead Prevention, Storm Water, Organized Camps, Detention Facilities, and Disaster Preparedness.
• Ensure adherence to County and State health and safety regulations through routine assessments, responding to complaints, documenting findings, enforcing actions, and educating the public.
• Develop the ability to prepare detailed inspection reports, interpret health codes, and communicate necessary corrective measures clearly to all stakeholders.
• Engage directly with the public, businesses, and regulatory bodies, providing guidance and support in varied settings.

Candidate Profile

• Possess foundational knowledge of sanitation science, public health principles, and pertinent environmental health laws and regulations.
• Adapt quickly to the evolving public health environment and fulfill a broad spectrum of departmental functions.
• Demonstrate capability in identifying issues, researching them thoroughly, preparing evidence-based documentation, and effectively presenting observations.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office suite and competent with general computer applications.
• Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, including skills in report creation and presentations.
• Exhibit strong critical thinking, analytical abilities, and empathy when interacting with clients.
• Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with diverse communities, team members, and partner agencies.

Working Conditions

This position primarily operates Monday through Friday, with occasional evening and weekend duties for temporary event inspections or complaint responses. The work involves outdoor inspections under a range of environmental conditions including beaches and waste sites.

Program Duration & Advancement

The trainee role lasts up to 36 months, during which successful candidates must obtain the State of California’s Environmental Health Specialist registration. Following certification and satisfactory performance, promotion to Environmental Health Specialist I is possible within three years of appointment. A one-year probationary period applies.

Compensation and Benefits

• Starting salary up to $54.11 per hour (equivalent to $112,934 annually) with a competitive total compensation package.
• Opportunities for salary advancement after 6 months (1,040 hours) based on performance, with annual increases thereafter up to the top salary range.
• Pathway for career progression to Environmental Health Specialist I, with hourly rates from $46.05 to $55.98.
• Generous paid time off including vacation, sick leave, and 12 paid holidays.
• Full county-paid health insurance premium contributions for most employee-only and family health plans.
• Annual benefit allowances of up to $850 for staff development and wellness plus ongoing education and training.
• Contributions toward post-retirement health insurance and benefits.
• Retirement pension integrated with Social Security.
• Paid parental leave eligibility of up to 8 weeks after 12 months employment.
• Additional perks include dental, vision, disability, life insurance, employee assistance, and professional development resources.
• Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness via federal programs.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited institution with a relevant degree such as Environmental Health Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Microbiology or related field as mandated by state law for REHS registration.
• Possession of a valid letter of eligibility from the State of California to participate in the Environmental Health Specialist Trainee program at the time of appointment.
• Must obtain registration as an Environmental Health Specialist from the State of California within 36 months.
• A valid California driver’s license is required; special endorsements may be necessary depending on assignment.
• No prior experience required.

Additional Information

• Employment requires background check clearance prior to hiring; failure to comply may disqualify candidacy.
• Depending on duties, successful completion of physical examination, drug screening, and other evaluations might be necessary.
• A supplemental questionnaire is required as part of the application process.

Application and Selection Process

• Candidates will be assessed based on application, supplemental questionnaire, educational background, training, experience, and relevant skills.
• Personal identifying information will be blinded for an impartial evaluation process.
• Applications are reviewed considering work history, qualifications, and supplemental responses; detailed and specific replies are recommended for best evaluation.
• Applicants not following instructions or providing insufficient detail may be at a disadvantage or disqualified.