What are the responsibilities and job description for the Environmental Health Specialist position at Teton County?
Note: Position qualifies for a $1500 Recruitment Bonus pursuant to policy. Position is open until filled.
SUMMARY: Promotes individual and community health and safety by inspecting various establishments and water sources for compliance with health codes and regulations and providing health education and assistance to the public.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties which are not listed below; reasonable accommodations will be made as required. The job description is subject to change at any time by the employer. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Conducts periodic inspections of various establishments and facilities including but not limited to restaurants, pools, spas, childcare facilities, and body art establishments to verify compliance with state and local health codes; maintains accurate records of all inspections; reviews construction plans related to new and remodeled food and drink establishments, pools, and spas, body art facilities and childcare centers.
- Ensures compliance of food establishments engaged in processes requiring Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Plan (HACCP); guides facilities through HACCP processes; reviews and approves completed plans.
- Performs bacteriological analysis of drinking water, swimming pools, and spa water; reports results to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); investigates positive private water samples; makes referrals for public water systems and private water well sample resolution.
- Educates the public about regulations and health standards; organizes, prepares, and conducts food and pool informational presentations and training for public facility operators.
- Investigates human health hazard complaints for unhealthy, unsanitary, or unsafe conditions in water supplies, wastewater and sewage disposal, pollution and vector control, lead exposure, and mold. Assists State Health Department conduct epidemiological investigations of reported illness or disease outbreaks as needed.
- Plans, trains, and implements all hazard response plans with agency staff and State bioterrorism teams.
- Supports the relationship between the Teton County staff and the general public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with visitors and County staff; maintains confidentiality of work-related issues and County information; performs other duties as required or assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Health, Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, or related field
- 1-3 years progressively responsible experience
Required Licenses and Certifications:
- Must possess a valid Wyoming/Idaho Driver’s License and maintain an acceptable driving record.
- Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS) with the National Environmental Health Association or eligibility to attain within one year of employment.
Required Knowledge of:
- EPA regulations; Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and State food codes, pool codes, and sanitary codes for childcare facilities, body art facilities, and other establishments.
- General laboratory methods, practices, and procedures.
- Methods and techniques involved in conflict management and negotiation.
- Principles and procedures of recordkeeping, reporting and retention.
- Safety rules and regulations, occupational hazards, and safety precautions.
Required Skills in:
- Teaching and communicating complex scientific information to a variety of audiences.
- Researching and understanding scientific data.
- Conducting bacteriological analysis on potable water and pool/spa samples.
- Operating and maintaining laboratory equipment.
Physical Demands/Work Environment:
- Work is performed in various establishments and outdoor environments within Teton County; may be exposed to potentially dangerous conditions or materials including industrial pollution, medical and nuclear waste, airborne and waterborne germs, contaminants such as lead and asbestos and extreme weather conditions. Use of protective equipment and clothing is required.