Environmental Health Specialist I-II-III - Consumer Protection Programs (Open & Promotional)

San Mateo County Health's Environmental Health Services Division ensures a safe and healthful environment in the County's 20 cities and unincorporated areas through education, monitoring and enforcement of a variety of regulatory programs, and ongoing services to the community. For more information on the Environmental Health Services Division, visit The Position The Environmental Health Specialist assigned to the Consumer Protection Program will provide services to the County and some local communities, including inspection, consultation, surveys, investigations and enforcement of regulations related to water, food, waste, housing, public pools and safety. Rewarding Aspects of the Job Your work will have a direct impact on helping the residents of San Mateo County live longer and healthier lives. The education and enforcement work in the food program will prevent foodborne illnesses in the community. In addition, the regulatory oversight in our public swimming pool program will ensure a healthy way for the public to recreate and prevent potential childhood drownings. Challenging Aspects of the Job You will have the opportunity to navigate complex regulatory environments while addressing the diverse needs of the public, businesses, and government stakeholders—all while making timely, evidence-based decisions that directly impact community health and safety. Duties Conduct regular inspections of food, water, housing, industrial, educational, and recreational facilities to ensure compliance with environmental health laws and regulations. Provide instruction and guidance to correct violations and carry out enforcement activities as needed. Investigate and resolve public complaints related to environmental health concerns. Advise and educate business owners, builders, architects, engineers, public officials, and others on the interpretation and application of environmental health laws and requirements. Conduct training sessions for employees of restaurants and other establishments in environmental sanitation practices. Maintain accurate records and prepare reports and correspondence. Serve as an expert witness in court proceedings when necessary. Provide general program support as assigned. At the III level, lead research or administer a senior project aimed at enhancing or strengthening a specific component of the environmental health field, and serve as a subject‑matter resource in that specialty area. Perform other related duties as assigned. Certification Requirements Environmental Health Specialist I: possession of a current “Trainee Certification Letter” from the California Department of Public Health, Environmental Health Specialist Registration Program. Environmental Health Specialist II and III: possession of a California certificate as a Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS). Education and Experience I level: a bachelor’s degree that has included a minimum of 30 semester units of basic sciences. II level: one year of experience in general inspections and investigations in the environmental health field. III level: two years of journey‑level experience in environmental health inspections and investigations. Knowledge Principles of biological and physical sciences. Principles and practices of environmental health sanitation. Techniques of environmental health inspection, investigation and control. General community health problems and governmental programs designed to control or alleviate them. Research, evaluation and statistical methods. Laws, regulations and ordinances governing environmental health in California. Provisions of the Penal Code relating to public nuisances. Skills / Abilities Interpret laws, regulations and data. Define difficult problem areas, analyze complex data and make valid recommendations. Advise and instruct others in the principles of sanitation and environmental health. Enforce local ordinances and state law. Work independently and as a team member. Keep complex and accurate records. Prepare clear, concise reports and correspondence. Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others. Speak effectively and communicate in situations requiring instruction and persuasion. Represent the division as an expert in area of specialty. Assist in the training and orientation of new personnel. Licensure / Certification For the II or III level: possession of a California Certificate as a Registered Environmental Health Specialist. Equal Opportunity Employer County of San Mateo is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering diversity, equity and inclusion at all levels. The County seeks to hire, support, and retain employees who reflect our diverse community. #J-18808-Ljbffr County of San Mateo