Environmental Health Specialist (FT)

$75,878 - $97,490/Yr

City Of Brooklyn Park - Brooklyn Park, MN

Full-time - Entry Level

Remote - Brooklyn Park, MN

Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support

About the position

The Environmental Health Specialist is responsible for conducting inspections at various licensed establishments, investigating foodborne and waterborne illness outbreaks, and ensuring compliance with health regulations. This role involves preparing reports, enforcing laws, and providing public education, all while exercising independent judgment in accordance with departmental policies and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct routine, complaint, and follow-up inspections of licensed establishments such as restaurants, grocery stores, and swimming pools.
• Investigate foodborne and waterborne illness outbreaks in accordance with relevant laws and regulations.
• Issue clear and concise inspection reports and correction orders to communicate health and safety violations.
• Maintain health inspection databases to measure departmental performance and compliance with state agreements.
• Utilize GIS software for data analysis and reporting.
• Address complaints in licensed facilities and environmental hazards in commercial and residential settings.
• Provide public education and outreach through presentations and demonstrations.
• Develop and lead interdepartmental and cross-functional team projects and investigations.
• Recruit, mentor, and train seasonal interns to ensure compliance with division policies.
• Assist in reviewing and updating program policies and procedures.
• Prepare for audits by the Department of Agriculture and Department of Health.
• Maintain records for data requests and audits.
• Attend court proceedings to provide code interpretation and testimony.
• Respond to complex housing cases involving unsafe or unsanitary conditions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in biological or physical sciences or a related field.
• At least one year of relevant experience in environmental health or inspections.
• Valid driver's license and ability to obtain certifications within one year of hire, including Registered Sanitarian (RS) or Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS).
• Knowledge of the Minnesota Food Code and FDA Food Program Standards.

Nice-to-haves

• Current registration as a RS/REHS for NEHA.
• Three years of equivalent experience in environmental health inspections.
• Fluency in Spanish, Hmong, Russian, Somali, Laotian, or Vietnamese.

Benefits

• Flexible/Hybrid work options
• Health insurance
• Paid holidays
• Professional development opportunities
• Retirement savings plan