Environmental Health Specialist

About the Role

The Environmental Health Specialist develops, implements, coordinates, and evaluates environmental health programs and services that protect and promote community health. This includes education, inspections, investigations, prevention efforts, and community outreach related to environmental health concerns.

Additional responsibilities involve program planning, budgeting, training, quality assurance, and program and service evaluation; compiling and submitting required reports to funding sources and government agencies; and researching, preparing, and submitting grants and alternative funding proposals.

Responsibilities

• Models the organization’s mission, values, and activities, aligning work with strategic plan goals and objectives.
• Attends and participates in meetings as required, representing the organization professionally with internal and external partners.
• Maintains an understanding of the organization’s operations, programs, and services, including the 10 Essential Public Health Services and PHAB domains, standards, and measures.
• Incorporates health literacy best practices into organizational activities and communications.
• Demonstrates sound judgment, ethical behavior, and effective decision-making; treats individuals with fairness, respect, and professionalism.
• Reviews, analyzes, and interprets policies, guidance, and applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
• Prepares clear, accurate, and professional written materials, including reports, policies, grants, and business correspondence.
• Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with public and private organizations, partnerships, and programs.
• Conducts regulatory inspections to assess compliance with public health standards, documents findings, and collaborates with partners for follow-up.
• Investigates and documents environmental complaints, coordinates with agencies for assistance or referral, and provides recommendations.
• Informs, educates, and empowers residents on environmental health topics, offering prevention guidance and resources.
• Develops, promotes, implements, and evaluates environmental health programs and educational initiatives related to air quality, water quality, lead hazards, and other priorities.
• Operates, maintains, and utilizes specialized environmental sampling, monitoring, and testing equipment.
• Evaluates and participates in trainings, seminars, and educational opportunities related to environmental health and regulatory compliance.
• Develops and maintains educational materials and information systems on environmental health risks and prevention strategies.
• Educates the public on environmental concerns, sanitation standards (food safety, water supply, sewage disposal, housing maintenance, etc.), and related matters.
• Searches for funding opportunities and assists with grant development, submission, and implementation.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills

• Ability to review, analyze, and interpret policies and regulations.
• Strong written communication skills for reports, grants, and correspondence.
• Effective relationship-building with public and private organizations.
• Proficiency in operating environmental sampling and testing equipment.