This is an entry level position for those who possess a bachelor's degree, but do not possess the experience or additional educational requirements necessary for registration. Incumbents will assist registered Environmental Health Specialists and perform increasingly independent work of a routine nature. An incumbent known as an environmental health specialist trainee may be employed to work under the supervision of a registered environmental health specialist, until he or she is qualified by examination as provided under Section 106670, for a period which shall not exceed three years.
This class of employee may have responsibilities that include, but are not necessarily limited to: Conduct inspections of food handling and industrial establishments, water supply systems, sewage disposal systems, solid waste disposal sites, housing units, schools and public buildings, recreational and bathing facilities, underground storage tank systems, biomedical waste management, and air pollution sources to ensure compliance with state and local laws and regulations governing environmental quality control; recommend changes and give instructions for correction of deficiencies; note violations and secure voluntary compliance; issue written notices of violation or take steps to initiate legal action to enforce compliance; collect food, water, air, soil, and effluent samples for laboratory analysis; investigate violations and complaints regarding insect, rodent, animal and other public health nuisances; check for violations of agricultural and open burning regulations; instruct and make recommendations to individuals and groups in methods of control; collect evidence and appear as a witness in court; review and approve permits, building plans, and specifications of water, sewage, pool, underground tank control systems, emergency response plans and procedures, and waste handling systems; prepare reports and correspondence; maintain files on inspections and investigations; use and maintain a variety of scientific precision measuring instruments; interpret laws and regulations and act as a resource person for private and public agencies; keep records, prepare reports, and participate in special studies and surveys; attend meetings and training classes and make presentations regarding situations and programs.
Perform related duties as assigned. (Essential duties may vary from position to position within this classification. Reasonable accommodation will be made when requested and determined by the County to be appropriate under applicable law.)
