Environmental Health Specialist I/II

Environmental Health Specialist I/II

Salary

$23.44 - $35.28 Hourly

Location

Eureka, CA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

26-00085

Department

Department of Health and Human Services

Division

406 - Environmental Health

Opening Date

10/19/2026

Closing Date

12/14/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

DEFINITION

Environmental Health Specialist I/II - Public Health

Department of Health and Human Services

Job Highlights:

• Performing health and safety inspections at food facilities, public pools, and body art establishments
• Sampling recreational water bodies and posting health advisories
• Communicating the principals of hygiene, communicable disease, and sanitation to business operators and the public
• Responding to consumer complaints related to environmental health

Work Location:

100 H Street

Eureka, CA 95501

Work Hours:

Mon - Fri, 8am - 5pm

DEFINITION

Under general supervision (I) or direction (II), performs professional work involved in the inspection and enforcement of an assigned environmental health program area. Program areas include, but are not limited to, consumer protection, hazardous materials, emergency response, drinking water sanitation, solid waste disposal, wastewater disposal, land use and vector control; interprets, implements, and enforces federal, state, and local codes as they pertain to environmental health programs; provides education, technical consultations and assistance; and performs related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general supervision (Environmental Health Specialist I or "EHS Trainee") or direction (Environmental Health Specialist II) from program leaders or assigned supervisory and management personnel. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

Environment Health Specialist I: This is the entry-level, non-registered classification in the professional Environment Health Specialist series as described by California Health & Safety Code (HSC) section 106615(d), as an "Environmental health specialist trainee". Within the first three years of employment, in California as a trainee, an EHS I must complete the basic training and educational requirements outlined in the California Department of Public Health evaluation letter and pass the REHS exam in accordance with HSC section 106625. In addition, under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform routine environmental inspection and enforcement duties. While working toward a State of California Registration as an Environmental Health Specialist, and as experience is gained, assignments become more varied, complex, and difficult; close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the II level, but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise.

Environmental Health Specialist II: This is the journey-level registered classification in the professional Environment Health Specialist series. Positions at this level are required to possess a Registered Environmental Health Specialist certification issued by the State of California and are fully competent to perform the full range of environmental inspection and enforcement duties, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of, and expected to work within, the bounds of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.

This class is distinguished from the Senior Environmental Health Specialist in that the latter is the program lead which performs the most complex and specialized inspection and enforcement duties. At the Senior level, incumbents provide technical direction, programmatic enhancements and training to trainee and journey -level support staff.

Positions in the Environmental Health Specialist class series are flexibly staffed and positions at the II-level are normally filled by advancement from the I-level, after gaining the knowledge, skill, and experience which meet the qualifications for and after demonstrating the ability to perform the work of the higher-level classification; progression to level II of the series requires that incumbents successfully complete the examination for, and obtain status as, a Registered Environmental Health Specialist. Advancement to the II level must be completed within five years of employment as a trainee.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignment of different positions.

Some duties, knowledge, skills, and abilities may be performed in a learning capacity for entry-level (I Level) positions.

• Educates the public on and ensures enforcement of environmental health safety laws, rules, and regulations; interprets specialized environmental health regulations, rules, and policies related to an assigned program area.
• Inspects retail food establishments, as defined by State statute for compliance to applicable health codes; instructs food serving workers in the proper handling of food; investigates reported cases of foodborne illness.
• Inspects organized camps, adult and juvenile correctional facilities, and body art facilities for compliance with public health laws; documents violations of public health and environmental regulations and pursues compliance through education and enforcement strategies.
• Conducts inspections of proposed and existing on-site wastewater treatment systems (OWTS); issues permits for OWTS and completes final construction and operational inspections such systems.
• Issues permits for the installation, modification and closure of underground storage tanks; ensures that State guidelines are followed; identifies areas where unauthorized releases have occurred; documents site conditions.
• Reviews information and makes recommendations regarding potable water supply requirements in relation to land division projects and residential development in the County.
• Performs inspections of small water systems; visually inspects for conformance with applicable codes and regulations; takes water samples and interprets laboratory results; communicates lab results and explains disinfection requirements if necessary.
• Inspects public swimming pools and spas for conformance with codes and regulations; takes and interprets water samples; inspects construction detail and proper use and maintenance of filters and chemicals.
• Investigates animal bite cases and recommends medical follow-up when needed; collaborates with medical health professionals, participates in rabies and other clinics to educate the public on protection from diseases transmitted by animals.
• Conducts inspections and investigations related to public health communicable disease
• investigations, included but not limited to, rabies, foodborne illness, and West Nile virus.
• Collects environmental samples for laboratory evaluation and assessment of existing contamination in accordance with best practices or quality assurance plans; and, interprets results.
• Performs plan review and approval of food facilities, body art facilities, commercial swimming pool and spa facilities, OWTS, and water wells.
• Prepares comprehensive reports related to inspections, investigations, and studies completed in the assigned program area.
• Provides general information to the regulated community and public regarding department policies, procedures, and regulations; receives and responds to inquiries, requests for assistance, concerns, and complaints from the public regarding division activities and programs.
• Compiles data for and prepares a variety of records and reports related to environmental health investigations, inspections, studies, and projects.
• Participates in community education and public information efforts.
• Maintains files, databases, and records related to documented violations and enforcement investigations; prepares a variety of written reports, memoranda, and correspondence.
• Performs related duties as assigned.
• Inspects, permits, investigates and enforces upon hazardous materials facilities for conformance with regulations and statute.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

QUALIFICATIONS

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge and ability required.

Knowledge of:

• Principles and practices of environmental sanitation, including water supply, wastewater and solid waste disposal, sanitation, and vector control.

• Applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to environmental health programs.

• California Penal Code as related to public nuisances.

• Principles and practices of sanitary food, processing, and handling.

• Principles and techniques of sampling and analysis of varied specimens.

• Principles and practices of physical, biological, and social sciences as they relate to public health and environmental quality control.

• Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA)'s burden of proof for civil criminal and administrative cases as it relates to evidence provided by the division.

• Research practices.

• Investigative techniques and principles of evidence.

• Proper use and operation of field-testing equipment and materials used in environmental health inspections, investigations and warrants.

• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and County staff.

• The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

• Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.

Ability to:

• Conduct thorough routine and special inspections and investigations.
• Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to enforcing environmental health regulations and guidelines.
• Identify unsanitary conditions, isolate causes, and take appropriate action to ensure compliance.
• Simultaneously conduct multiple inspections and investigations, and accurately document findings and maintain appropriate records.
• Respond to inquiries, complaints, and requests for service in a fair, tactful, and timely manner.
• Follow up, as needed, to assure that compliance has been met.
• Collect and interpret field and test data accurately.
• Prepare clear, concise, and accurate reports, correspondence, and other written material.
• Review construction specifications and blueprints to ensure health and safety compliance.
• Perform mathematical computations and statistical analysis.
• Educate the public in matters of effective sanitary measures.
• Act quickly and calmly in emergency situations.
• Maintain accurate files ad records.
• Effectively represent the department and the County in meetings with governmental agencies; community groups; various business, professional, and regulatory organizations; and in meetings with individuals.
• Independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.
• Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
• Report up on program activities to Supervisor or Director, as needed, especially on critical, political or time sensitive issues.

Minimum Qualifications:

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Level I: Equivalent to a bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in environmental health, sanitation, or a related field and letter confirming acceptance to work as an Environmental Health Specialist Trainee from the State of California, Department of Public Health.

Level II: Registration as an Environmental Health Specialist with the State of California.

Licenses and Certifications:

• Must possess a valid US driver's license upon date of application. Must obtain California driver's license following hire date per California DMV regulations.

and

• Level I: possession of a letter confirming acceptance by the California Department of Public Health to work as an Environmental Health Specialist Trainee.
• Level II: possession of a registration by the State of California as a Registered Environmental Health Specialist.

WORKING CONDITIONS & ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

When assigned to an office environment:

• Mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; ability to stand and walk between work areas; occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information.
• Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen.
• Hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone.
• Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment.

When assigned to field inspection:

• Mobility to work in changing site conditions and move quickly through a site inspection; to operate a motor vehicle and visit various County sites; frequently walk in operational areas to identify problems or hazards, with exposure to hazardous materials in some site locations; to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects averaging a weight of 50 pounds, or heavier weights, in all cases with the use of proper equipment and/or assistance from other staff.
• Vision to inspect site conditions, violations, problems and work in progress.
• Strength, stamina, and mobility to perform light to medium physical work; to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; to reach, twist, turn, kneel, and bend, to climb and descend ladders.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:

• Employees work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances.
• Employees also work in the field and are exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions including rain, wind, snow, road hazards,

vibration, confining workspace, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous physical substances and fumes.

• Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Some departments may require pre-employment screening measures before an offer of employment can be made (i.e. background screening, physical examination, etc.).

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

HOW TO APPLY

A complete, original application must be filed for each position you are interested in applying for. Applicants must apply online through the County's automated application system at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/humboldtcountyca.

Applications must be submitted no later than the final filing date and time listed on the job flyer.

It is important that your application shows all the relevant education and experience you possess. Human Resources staff does not consider or review resumes or attachments. Incomplete applications will be rejected.

Please read the job requirements section of the announcement. Be sure you meet these requirements since they will be carefully evaluated during the selection process.

Your performance in any employment examinations will be compared with the performance of others who take the tests. The examination results will be emailed to you as quickly as possible.

SELECTION PROCEDURE

The County utilizes a set of rules to ensure that our hiring processes are fair and equitable. Applications will be screened and those considered qualified will be invited to appear for an oral and/or written examination. Meeting the requirements does not guarantee inclusion into the selection process. Depending upon the number of applications received, the selection process may consist of additional application screening, written and/or practical exam(s), oral interview, or any combination thereof.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does it take to fill out the application?

• You should allow 30 - 45 minutes to fill out your application.

Can I change my application after submitting it?

• No. Once an application has been submitted, it is final. Applicants may submit a new application with updated information during the filing period if they wish. Only the most recent application submitted will be considered. All other applications will not be considered.

How long until I hear back from you and how can I check for updates on my application?

• You may receive communications regarding your application at different stages of the selection process. Important updates will be sent to the email address listed in your governmentjobs.com account at the time of notification. To ensure you dont miss any critical information, we recommend keeping your email address current and regularly checking both your inbox and junk mail folders throughout the process. You can also log into your governmentjobs.com account at any time to check your application status. If you have any questions about your applications progress, please contact the County of Humboldt Human Resources Personnel Division at 707-476-2349 or personnel@co.humboldt.ca.us.

Will I be informed if I am not selected for an interview / Oral Exam?

• Yes, you will be informed via email if you are not selected for an interview / Oral Exam.

OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

Research indicates that individuals in protected classes can be less likely to submit a job application. The County of Humboldt is dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace where our employees are free to bring their full selves to work each day in an environment that allows them to reach their full potential. The County Board of Supervisors has made organizational commitments to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and the County is working to ensure that these commitments are reflected in all we do. The County recognizes that certain populations (BIPOC, Disabled Persons, Veterans, LGBTQIA+ community members, etc.) face systemic and structural challenges which may inhibit their ability to satisfy every requirement of the position. In recognition of these structural and systemic factors, the Human Resources Department understands that experience can be gained in many ways - oftentimes, outside of formal institutions - and strives to take a holistic approach in assessing an applicant's qualifications for a position.

If you're excited about this role but your past work experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we strongly encourage you to apply.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS

The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access and opportunities in its programs, activities, and employment, and does not discriminate on the basis of mental or physical disabilities. The Human Resources Department is located in the Humboldt County Courthouse, which has an accessible entrance on 4th Street. Accessible parking is available adjacent to the 4th Street entrance and on the 4th Street side of the K Street lot. Special testing arrangements may be made to accommodate disabilities or religious convictions. If invited to an examination and you are in need of a reasonable accommodation, please contact Human Resources immediately at (707) 476-2349 so arrangements can be made.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The county is an equal opportunity employer. We enthusiastically accept our responsibility to make employment decisions without regard to race, religion or religious creed, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, military service, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local laws or ordinances.

MEDICAL EXAMINATION

A pre-employment medical examination provided by the County may be required upon offer of employment.

OTHER EXAMINATIONS

Some positions also require psychological evaluation and/or extensive background investigation.

LICENSES

Some classifications require possession of valid professional and/or technical licenses. Some classifications may require the possession of a valid California driver's license.

PROBATIONARY PERIOD

Persons appointed to regular County positions serve a probationary period. This is normally six (6) months but could be up to one (1) year. All designated safety employees serve a one-year probationary period.

EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY

It is the County's intention to hire only those workers who are authorized to work in the United States, pursuant to the Immigration Act of 1990. If you are offered employment, you will be required to verify your eligibility to work in the United States. For law enforcement positions you will be required to verify your U.S. citizenship or legalized status.

DISASTER SERVICE WORKERS

All County of Humboldt employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.

THE PROVISIONS OF THIS BULLETIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED CONTRACT. THE COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MAKE NECESSARY MODIFICATIONS TO THE EXAMINATION PLAN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE HUMBOLDT COUNTY MERIT SYSTEM RULES.

Please Note: Extra Help positions are non-benefitted but may be eligible to purchase health insurance upon meeting the hours worked requirement under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

RETIREMENT

The County of Humboldt participates in the CalPERS, with both the County and the employee making contributions toward the employee's retirement.

CalPERS Retirement Program:

• Tier I - Prior to 7/5/2012: 2.7% @ 55
• Tier II - Post 7/6/2012: 2% @ 55
• Tier III - Post 1/1/2013: 2% @ 62

Please note that these are the tiers available at the County of Humboldt. Tier determination is made by CalPERS. Please reach out to Personnel if you have questions regarding tier placement.

COMPREHESIVE BENEFITS PACKAGE

Our generous benefits package includes:

• Health Insurance

• Medical: Multiple plan options available through CalPERS

• County covers majority of employee premium and contributes to dependent coverage

• Additional Insurance Coverage

• Dental: Full premium coverage for employees and all dependents

• Vision: Full premium coverage for employees and eligible dependents

• County-Provided Benefits

• Life Insurance

• Longevity Pay

• Educational Reimbursement

• Deferred Compensation

• Employee Assistance Program

• Bus Pass Program

Optional Benefits

Employees may elect to purchase additional coverage including:

• Supplemental Life Insurance with guaranteed issuance period at time of hire
• Flexible Spending Accounts

VACATION

1 - 3 completed years of service = 12 days (192-hour cap)

4 - 10 completed years of service = 15 days (240-hour cap)

11 - 15 completed years of service = 20 days (320-hour cap)

16 - 20 completed years of service = 25 days (400-hour cap)

21+ completed years of service = 30 days (480-hour cap)

HOLIDAYS

Employees earn 15 paid holidays per year (specific dates as defined in their specific Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)), including 2 personal holidays.

SICK LEAVE

Employees earn 12 sick days per year with an unlimited cap on sick day accumulation.

PUBLIC SERVICE LOAN FORGIVENESS

The County is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness certified employer.

INCENTIVE PAY

County employees may be eligible for additional incentive pay, such as on-call pay, shift differential pay, locked facility pay, or annual uniform allowance, as defined in their specific MOU.

Please visit the County of Humboldt Human Resources website at Human Resources | Humboldt County, CA - Official Website for more information on benefits, labor agreements, and job opportunities.

01

This position requires driving on behalf of the County of Humboldt. Do you possess, or can you obtain, a valid California drivers license, prior to your date of hire per California Department of Motor Vehicle regulations?

• Yes
• No

02

Possession of a Letter of Eligibility to work as an Environmental Health Specialist Trainee OR Registration to work as an Environmental Health Specialist with the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and Cooperative Personnel Services (CPS) HR Consulting is REQUIRED. Please indicate your status as an EHS Trainee or Registered EHS with CDPH and CPS HR Consulting:

• I possess current status as a registered EHS in California
• I posses a valid California EHS Trainee Letter
• I have applied for a California EHS Trainee Letter
• I have not applied for a California EHS Trainee Leter

03

Please describe your educational background, including your degree, major field of study, and any coursework related to environmental health, sanitation, biological sciences, physical sciences, or a related field.

04

Please describe any education, training, or professional experience you have in environmental health, including inspections, investigations, sanitation, food safety, water quality, wastewater disposal, hazardous materials, or other environmental health programs. Include your specific responsibilities and the length of time you performed these duties.

05

Any other coursework, training or experience you would like to add that directly relates to this position.

Required Question

Employer County of Humboldt

Address 825 5th Street, Room 100

Eureka, California, 95501

Phone 707-476-2349