ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST II

Environment Specialist II (Lee County Health Department) Overview This professional Environmental Specialist II position functions independently for the Department of Health in Lee County, within the Environmental Health division in the Onsite Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems (OSTDS) program. The incumbent performs regulatory duties, reviews residential applications, issues permits, conducts site and abandonment inspections, and enforces compliance with public health standards. Responsibilities Review residential applications and plans, accept and issue permits for onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems. Perform site evaluations, initial and final inspections of newly installed systems, and inspections of repairs. Investigate sanitary nuisance complaints and conduct enforcement actions to ensure compliance with Florida Administrative Code and Florida Statutes. Determine seasonal high‑water tables and inundated areas to assess system suitability. Meet or consult with clients, government officials, property owners, contractors, engineers, septic tank contractors, and stakeholders regarding inspections and future site development. Serve as expert witness and represent the department in legal proceedings involving non‑compliant persons or facilities. Conduct assigned program state inspections at least once per year and initiate enforcement actions when failures occur. Provide quality assurance oversight of program functionality and enforcement. Regulate and enforce laws related to approved water and sewer connections, sanitary nuisances, and overcrowding in mobile home/RV parks. Enter data into the Environmental Health Database (EHD) and submit daily activity reports and timesheets as required. Attend mandatory training and respond to emergency alerts within 60 minutes. Perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications Knowledge of equipment required for OSTDS inspections (iPhone, shovel, auger, probes, laser level, other equipment). Knowledge of basic computer skills, EHD program, EHD Mobile App, and Hosted Fax. Knowledge of environmental principles, practices, and procedures. Ability to obtain and maintain Certified Environmental Health Professional in OSTDS or Registered Sanitarian certification. Ability to operate a county vehicle and maintain it per regulations. Ability to operate general office equipment and small hand tools (stapler, scissors, etc.). Ability to use telephone, computer, copier, and small hand tools frequently. Ability to follow office procedures, plan, organize, and coordinate work assignments. Ability to handle telephone calls courteously and effectively. Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing and establish effective working relationships. Ability to understand, interpret, and apply applicable rules, regulations, policies, and procedures. Ability to prioritize workload, follow instructions, and review data for accuracy. Ability to work independently or with minimal supervision. Ability to work with the public in a tactful and courteous manner. Ability to utilize problem‑solving techniques. Physical abilities: frequently bend, kneel, reach, stand for long periods; lift and carry up to 50 pounds; work outdoors with variable temperatures; walk long distances; work in loud environments. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 30 credit hours in a related science field. Certified Environmental Health Professional in the OSTDS program or Registered Sanitarian certification FEHA or NEHA as required by Florida Statute 381.0101, or comparable experience (certification must be obtained within 6 months of hire and maintained every two years). Valid driver’s license and possession of a motor vehicle for duties. Ability to lift 50 pounds. Location Fort Myers, FL, 33901 Benefits Annual and sick leave benefits. Nine paid holidays and one personal holiday each year. State group insurance coverage options, including health, life, dental, vision, and other supplemental insurance. Retirement plan with employer contributions. Equal Opportunity Employer The State of Florida is an equal‑opportunity employer and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act must notify the hiring authority in advance. #J-18808-Ljbffr