Environmental Health Specialist II

Position Overview

The County of Sonoma's Department of Health Services is seeking a qualified Environmental Health Specialist II to enhance public health and safety across various programs in Sonoma County. This full-time position offers a competitive salary up to $60.53 per hour ($126,333 annually) along with a comprehensive compensation package.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct inspections and investigations covering diverse programs such as food and recreational facilities, cannabis and medical waste sites, water systems, beaches, solid waste, body art, childhood lead prevention, storm water, organized camps, detention centers, and disaster preparedness.
• Ensure adherence to county and state health and safety regulations through routine inspections, responding to complaints, documenting findings, enforcing regulations when necessary, and educating the public.
• Draft detailed inspection reports, interpret applicable health codes, and communicate necessary corrective measures to relevant stakeholders.
• Engage frequently with the public, businesses, and regulatory authorities to provide guidance and support.
• Serve as the subject matter expert within assigned program areas.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Possesses a strong background in sanitation science, public health principles, and environmental health laws and regulations.
• Can adapt to the dynamic nature of public health and handle a variety of operational tasks.
• Skilled in problem identification, research, documentation preparation, and effective presentation of findings.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office suite and general computer applications.
• Excellent written and oral communication abilities, including report writing and public presentations.
• Displays strong critical thinking skills, regulatory research capabilities, and thorough field data analysis.
• Exhibits empathy toward clients and fosters collaborative relationships with diverse communities, colleagues, and partner agencies.

Working Conditions

This role primarily involves Monday through Friday hours with occasional evening and weekend duties to inspect temporary events or respond to complaints. Fieldwork includes working outdoors in various environments like beaches, waste sites, and food service locations.

Benefits and Compensation

• Salary progression following 1,040 hours (approximately six months) of satisfactory performance, with annual increases up to the salary range maximum.
• Generous paid time off including vacation, sick leave, and 12 paid holidays.
• Full county coverage of health insurance premiums for most employee-only and family plans.
• Annual wellness and staff development allowances up to $850 plus ongoing training opportunities.
• Retirement benefits fully integrated with Social Security and county contributions for post-retirement health insurance.
• Paid parental leave eligibility of up to eight weeks after one year of county employment.
• Comprehensive dental, vision, disability, life insurance, employee assistance programs, and professional development support.
• Potential eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness programs.

Application and Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must complete the supplemental questionnaire as part of their application. Candidates must possess a valid certificate of registration as an Environmental Health Specialist as mandated by California law. Additionally, a valid California driver's license is required. The position demands relevant professional experience in environmental health safety enforcement, supported by appropriate educational qualifications such as a degree in environmental health science or related fields.

Minimum Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in environmental health science, biology, chemistry, physics, microbiology, or related areas as required by state regulations.
• At least one year of professional experience in environmental health and safety regulation and enforcement, or equivalently recognized certifications (e.g., Registered Environmental Health Specialist, Registered Sanitarian).
• Valid certificate of registration as an Environmental Health Specialist for the II level as per California Health and Safety Code.
• Possession of a valid California driver’s license; endorsements may be required depending on assignment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Extensive knowledge in sanitation science, inspection methods, and environmental health safety laws and procedures.
• Understanding of federal, state, and local regulations relevant to public health.
• Familiarity with biology, chemistry, physics, microbiology, environmental research methodologies, and statistical analysis.
• Knowledge of hazardous materials handling and emergency response protocols.
• Skills to conduct thorough research, analyze data, enforce regulations through education or legal channels, prepare detailed reports, and communicate clearly.
• Ability to establish productive relationships with government officials, the public, and professional personnel.