ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST I

ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST I - 64028159

The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County is looking to establish a successful career in Public Health. Many of our innovative and successful health programs are recognized throughout Florida. We hope you decide to join our team!

Applicants will be contacted directly if selected for an interview. Join an amazing company culture that values employee growth and development at the Florida Department of Health. Professional development is highly encouraged and supported within our organization through opportunities for mentorships and educational and skills training. There are also many opportunities for continuing education at no cost to the employee. If you are looking to further your education through a college degree, the Florida Department of Health can help with our tuition reimbursement program.

The Florida Department of Health (DOH) is responsible for the health and safety of all citizens and visitors to the state. As a public health agency, the Florida Department of Health must monitor the health status of Floridians, diagnose, and investigate health problems, and mobilize local communities to address health-related issues. The Florida Department of Health develops policies and plans that support health goals, enforce laws and regulations that protect the health of all residents and visitors, and link people to needed health care services. The Florida Department of Health also provides specialized assistance to pregnant women, infants, and children with special health care needs, regulates health care practitioners, and provides medical disability determinations.

Title of Position: Environmental Specialist I

Your Specific Responsibilities: Under the supervision of Environmental Supervisor II, incumbent is responsible for timely completion of assigned independent professional environmental health work in Community Environmental Health Programs (Food Hygiene, Public Swimming Pools, Mobile Home Park, Schools, Group Care, Biomedical Waste, Tattoo, Tanning, and Limited Use Water programs). Responsibilities include planning and prioritizing all assigned duties and responsibilities to ensure that work is completed at the full expectations of the position within the scope of Florida Department of Health policies, Florida Administrative Codes, and Florida Statutes. Inspect facilities, monitor operations, collect samples, and/or perform field evaluations to determine compliance with regulatory requirements. Respond to requests for permitting; notify parties of program requirements; provide applications and other necessary documents to applicants; issue permits; and keep database updated. Investigate complaints. Complaints may include, but are not limited to, sanitary nuisance reports of mosquitoes in abandoned swimming pools, allegations of unsatisfactory drinking water, reports of failing septic systems, unsanitary facilities, improperly built or failing potable water wells or water distribution systems, sewage being discharged onto the ground or to surface water bodies, unlicensed or unpermitted activities, etc. Chapter 386, Part I, Florida Statutes (FS), further defines sanitary nuisance and provides a list of conditions that constitute prima facie evidence of sanitary nuisance. May assist in other program areas if required.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge of the terminology, principles and analytical techniques of the physical or natural sciences. Knowledge of public health principles. Knowledge of data collection and analysis principles and procedures. Skills in providing excellent customer service. Ability to collect, evaluate, analyze and interpret scientific or technical data. Ability to prepare technical reports. Ability to use personal computers. Ability to understand and apply applicable rules, regulations, policies and procedures relating to environmental programs. Ability to deal with the public in a tactful and courteous manner. Ability to work independently. Ability to plan, organize and coordinate work assignments, and effectively manage time. Ability to communicate effectively. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others. Ability to utilize problem-solving techniques.

Qualifications: Minimum: Must have graduated from an accredited 4-year college or university with a bachelor's degree and major coursework in public health, environmental science, environmental health, or a physical or biological science. Major course work must have at least 30 semester hours or 40 quarter hours of coursework in science. (A copy of transcripts is required PRIOR to or at the time of interview.) Must have a valid Florida driver's license. Must have transportation available to perform inspections throughout Hillsborough County. Must be able to lift fiberglass, plastic, or metal equipment lids up to 30 pounds. Must be able to climb up and down narrow and steep steps or ladder to enter below grade equipment rooms. Preferred: Minimum one year of experience independently conducting public health inspections (for example, drinking water, swimming pools, mobile home parks, food hygiene, and/or onsite sewage treatment disposal services). Minimum one year of experience working for a public health agency within the past 5 years. Certified to perform food inspections in the State of Florida as a Certified Environmental Health Professional or certified as a Registered Sanitarian or Registered Environmental Health Specialist. Speaks Spanish