ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST

The purpose of this classification is to perform complex environmental and public health inspections and enforcement duties in the Environmental Health Food Division Program. Essential Functions Performs environmental compliance monitoring and inspections in Environmental Health Food Program Provides consultative, technical, or educational services to organizations, or individuals regarding the necessity and methodology of enhancing environmental health standards, practices, and safety. Enforces and ensures compliance with all applicable environmental and health laws, county ordinances and related rules, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures; initiates any actions necessary to correct deviations or violations. Investigates complaints from the public and governmental agencies; develops corrective recommendations for identified problems; initiates legal action when necessary to effect compliance. Performs environmental and public health monitoring work with industry operations or planned operations, including sampling, use of testing devices, or evaluation of pollutants to determine environmental compliance and public health safety. Assists in conducting epidemiological studies concerning any environmental or public health classified disease or potential disease. Monitors the issuance of program permitting through permit applications review, inspections, fee payment, and lawful compliance of all rules/regulations. Provides technical expertise in administrative hearings or legal proceedings resulting from regulatory functions. Maintains records; prepares operating reports, inspections reports, or other documentation. Required Qualifications Education: Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science, Science, Engineering, or related field; or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience. Certifications (Required By Hire): None Certifications (Required After Hire): None Experience: None Preferences: Experience or training involving environmental or public health compliance preferred; Ability to communicate bilingually in English and Span-ish preferred Other Requirements: Must possess and maintain a valid TN State Driver's License; must have reliable transportation and maintain automobile liability insurance that meets Tennessee’s financial responsibility law on personal automobile Substitutes for Requirements Any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered for employment into the position. Background check will be conducted prior to hire. Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) review will be conducted prior to being authorized to drive for county business. Key Knowledge Food safety knowledge or food service experience preferred Key Skills Proficient in Windows OS and Microsoft Office Basic understanding of computers, printers and other office equipment Ability to focus and demonstrate great attention to detail Ability to work cooperatively as a member of a team Ability to conduct thorough environmental inspections, note deficiencies and determine proper corrective action. Effective verbal and written communicator Excellent interpersonal skills; ability to establish and maintain working professional relationships with the public as well as internal and external partners Abilities This position requires the ability to engage in occasional light physical activity including but not limited to standing, walking and bending required to conduct inspections. This position requires adequate visual and auditory acuity to safely and effectively observe conditions necessary to conduct inspections and perform routine job duties. Additional Job Functions Local travel and occasional overnight travel are required. Occasional after hours/evening/weekend work may be necessary. Respond to and report immediately if called upon by local, regional or central office supervisors, as part of a coordinated emergency response by the Knox County Mayor’s Office Ensure regular, punctual attendance during scheduled work hours Perform other duties as required Work is conducted in a variety of regulated businesses and environments that may pose various occupational hazards. Permitting and inspections of outdoor pools and special events may result in exposure to adverse weather conditions. Adherence to established safety protocols and the proper use of required personal protective equipment (PPE) are essential to minimize the risk of injury. Working Conditions Work is primarily conducted in an office environment and in the community at food establishments, hotels, schools/daycares, swimming pools and tattoo studios, with regular duties outdoors and at public events. Knox County Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Knox County Government may provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr Knox County