Senior Environmental Health Specialist - DHHS Public Health

Senior Environmental Health Specialist - DHHS Public Health

Salary

$29.48 - $37.83 Hourly

Location

Eureka, CA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

25-00259

Department

Department of Health and Human Services

Division

406 - Environmental Health

Opening Date

06/09/2026

Closing Date

Continuous

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

DEFINITION

SENIOR ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST - PUBLIC HEALTH

Department of Health & Human Services

Humboldt County Division of Environmental Health is looking for an experienced Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS) to be the technical lead for the retail food program. Join a team of dedicated environmental health specialists promoting public health in beautiful Humboldt County. Advance your career away from the busy city in a community-minded rural setting and the natural beauty and mild climate of redwood country.

What Youll Do:

• Provide senior-level oversight and support to the Retail Food program.

• Administer inspector field training in retail food facility inspections consistent with Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and California Department of Public Health retail food regulatory program standards.

• Program development: develop forms, processes, procedures, informational handouts, etc. and lead program improvements.

Where Youll Do It:

A typical schedule for this position is Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM.

This position is located at 100 H St., Eureka, CA 95501.

DEFINITION

Under direction, performs the most difficult and complex professional work of staff involved in the inspection and enforcement of an assigned environmental health program; program areas include, but are not limited to, consumer protection, emergency response, drinking water sanitation, solid waste disposal, wastewater disposal, land use and vector control; positions may direct the work of lower level staff and/or serve in a technical expert capacity in a specific program area; interprets and enforces federal, state, and local statutes as they pertain to environmental management programs; promotes public health through inspection, permitting and enforcement; assists with planning and implementing new or specialized programs; and performs related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives direction from assigned supervisory and management employees. Some positions in this classification exercise technical and functional direction over, and provide training to trainee and journey-level staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

This is the advanced-level classification in the Environment Health Specialist series responsible for performing the most complex work assigned to the series. Incumbents regularly work on tasks which are varied and complex, requiring considerable discretion and independent judgment. Positions in the classification rely on experience and judgment to apply laws and regulations to ensure program compliance. Assignments are given with general guidelines and incumbents are responsible for proposing objectives, timelines and methods to complete assignments. Work is typically reviewed upon completion for soundness, appropriateness, and conformity to policy and requirements.

This class is distinguished from the Supervising Environmental Health Specialist in that the latter is the full supervisory classification with responsibilities for the supervision and evaluation of assigned staff.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

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

• Performs complex and specialized regulation and enforcement of health and safety laws, rules, and regulations; interprets the more specialized regulations, rules, and policies related to the assigned program area.
• Provides lead direction and training to support staff performing environmental health inspection and enforcement duties; organizes and assigns work; sets priorities and follows up to ensure coordination and completion of assigned work; instructs staff in work procedures.
• Serves in a technical expert capacity within an assigned program area including, but not limited to, reviewing and commenting on environmental documents for conformance with codes and regulations; providing guidance on permitting and regulations for land development projects; providing oversight and direction to the non-standard septic system program; and coordinating division operations with external organizations including law enforcement or oversight agencies.
• Reviews referrals from planning, building and business license applications for conformance with environmental codes and regulations; coordinates referrals and/or projects with other units within the Environmental Health Division.
• Provides guidance to contractors, developers and the general public on wells and wastewater disposal permitting and regulatory compliance.
• Reviews all complaints completed by inspectors for completeness, error or omission; reviews routine and complaint inspections that result in critical violations and/or reinspection; based on this review, provides feedback and guidance to staff; updates completed complaint status in the automated data management system.
• Serves as the primary intake person for rabies related complaints; assesses each call for human or domesticated animal exposure, or potential exposure, to rabies; gathers information necessary for testing; refers to communicable disease nurse or animal control officer; quarantines domesticated animals; transports carcasses and testing materials from home and vet locations to the laboratory; assesses lab results and implements proper quarantine protocols or determines whether revaccination is sufficient; provides guidance and training to animal control agencies, veterinarians, medical staff and other local agencies as needed.
• Performs plan review and approval of food facilities, body art facilities, commercial swimming pool facilities, septic systems, and water wells.
• Assists management in the development and implementation of policies, procedures, codes and regulations.
• Conducts investigations and inspections on the most complex complaints for consumer protection, hazardous materials, drinking water sanitation, septic systems, land use and vector control; ensures compliance with regulations; issues citations for violations of public health and environmental laws and regulations.
• Attends and participates in meetings and committees, both internally and externally, as assigned.
• Passes along critical information to Supervisor regarding staff needs for training, equipment, support or other.
• Responds to inquiries from dissatisfied members of the community regarding complaint investigations, fees, and/or inspections.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge and ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• Principles of providing functional direction and training.
• Principles and practices of environmental sanitation, including water supply, sewage and solid waste disposal, and vector control.
• Applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to environmental health programs.
• Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA)'s burden of proof for civil criminal and administrative cases as it relates to evidence provided by the division.
• Investigative techniques.
• California Penal Code as related to public nuisances.
• Roles and jurisdiction of the Environmental Health Division and other County departments or external agencies.
• Principles and practices of physical, biological, and social sciences as they relate to public health and environmental quality control.
• Microbiological principles of foodborne illnesses.
• Rabies law and virology as it relates to human and animal exposure/interactions to reduce the likelihood of human illness.
• Principles and practices of plan review and permit processing.
• Public health implications of sewage discharge and disposal.
• Proper design and construction of a diverse range of systems including septic, groundwater, and wastewater treatment, and optimal conditions for site suitability.
• Principles and practices of sanitary food processing, and handling.
• Principles and techniques of sampling and analysis of varied specimens.
• Principles and techniques for working with groups and fostering effective team interaction to ensure teamwork is conducted smoothly.
• 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:

• Provide staff leadership and work direction.
• Train staff in work procedures.
• Conduct complex inspections and investigations.
• Review the work and reports of assigned staff for accuracy, completeness and quality.
• Serve in technical expert capacity for assigned program area.
• Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to enforcing environmental health regulations and guidelines.
• Identify potential sources of foodborne illnesses using microbiology principles.
• Analyze, interpret, apply, explain, and ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local policies, procedures, laws, regulations, codes, and departmental policies.
• Simultaneously conduct multiple inspections and investigations, and accurately document findings and maintain appropriate records.
• Prepare clear, concise, and accurate reports, correspondence, data, and other written material for a variety of audiences.
• Perform mathematical computations and statistical analysis.
• Educate the public in matters of effective sanitary measures and best management practices.
• Act quickly and calmly in emergency situations.
• Evaluate consequences and need for immediate action, based on field observations, professional recommendations and laboratory results.
• 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.
• Assist in developing and implementing goals, objectives, practices, policies, procedures, and work standards.
• 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.

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:

Equivalent to a bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in biological or physical sciences, environmental health science, or a related field.

and

Two (2) years of experience in the inspection and enforcement of public health and environmental laws, 18 months of which must be at a level equivalent to the Countys class of Environmental Health Specialist II.

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.
• 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 may be required; 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. to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; to reach, twist, turn, kneel, and bend, to climb and descend ladders; and to operate a motor vehicle and visit various County sites; ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects averaging a weight of 40 pounds, or heavier weights, in all cases with the use of proper equipment and/or assistance from other staff; frequent walking in operational areas to identify problems or hazards, with exposure to hazardous materials in some site locations.
• Strength, stamina, and mobility to perform light to medium physical work.
• Vision to inspect site conditions and work in progress.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:

• 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, 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 Registration as an Environmental Health Specialist (EHS) with the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). Do you possess a valid certificate of registration as an Environmental Health Specialist (EHS) with the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).

• Yes
• No

02

If you answered "YES" to question #1, please indicate your license/registration number.

03

Please indicate your years of experience in the investigation and enforcement of public health and environmental laws.

• No experience
• Less than six (6) months
• Six (6) months - one (1) year
• One (1) - two (2) years
• Two (2) years or more

04

Do you have at least two years of increasingly responsible experience in the field of environmental health pertaining to the regulation of retail food facilities?

• Yes
• No

05

Please describe your experience and/or knowledge you possess, related to retail food facility inspections under the California Health & Safety Code? In your response include specific work experience, knowledge, training and/or certifications you possess.

06

Describe your experience, if any, representing organizations on environmental health matters to the community, business owners and others providing customer service and public information.

07

Describe your experience, if any, providing lead direction, training, technical expertise, and in reviewing the work of others. In your response, please include the employer(s) where this experience was obtained.

08

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

09

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