Environmental Health Specialist

Under the direction of the Health Officer, the Environmental Health Specialist, as a Registered Sanitarian, has the authority and responsibility to conduct inspections of food service, lodging, vending, swimming, camping, recreational‑educational camp, tattoo, and body piercing facilities, and lead risk assessments using applicable health and safety statutes and administrative codes.

This position may be responsible for implementing assigned programs and projects within the Health Department’s Certified Public Health Laboratory, conducting chemical and/or microbiological analyses, and assisting with education and outreach activities.

This position requires adherence to the technical guidelines established by the applicable regulatory. This position is expected to accurately and efficiently complete work in accordance with applicable Standard Operating Procedures, quality assurance manuals, and safety protocols. Work is performed in both laboratory and office settings, as well as in the field.

Based on 40 hours per week, non-exempt, limited-term position with full benefits eligibility. Continued employment is probable based on operational needs. 2026 Salary: $27.89 – $30.09 per hour

• Annual wage increase based on eligibility
• Paid, on‑the‑job training and advancement opportunities
• 85% county contribution to health and dental premiums
• Health Saving Account (HSA) available to all employees enrolled in the county's medical plan, with annual contributions provided by the employer and the health plan
• Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) – One of the leading retirement systems in the nation – Contributions are paid according to current year rates set by Wisconsin Department of Employee Trust Funds (refer to (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). for further detail)
• County paid life insurance policy with coverage equivalent to annual salary (affordable Supplemental, Additional, and Spousal/Dependent life insurance available at employee’s expense)
• Competitive paid time off including vacation, sick time, personal days and holidays
• Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) qualifying employer

• Investigates (including sample procurement), documents and initiates corrective action regarding public health nuisances, consumer complaints, housing complaints, lead risk assessments and rabies control.
• Performs inspection and investigation related to complaints of suspect foodborne, waterborne, vectorborne illnesses or potential human health hazards in accordance with WI State Statutes, partnering with Public Health, Human Services and Law Enforcement when necessary.
• Performs sanitary surveys, water sampling and inspections of county establishments which the Health Department has regulatory authority over to determine compliance with the applicable laws, regulations and ordinances; conducts plan reviews, issues permits and assists license/permit applicants in the interpretation of local and state codes.
• Implements outreach and educational campaigns designed to cultivate a better understanding of the principles of Environmental Health.
• Maintains records and reports of official activities and performs other related work as assigned by the Health Officer.
• Participates in public health preparedness planning and response to emergency events including acts of terrorism, hazardous material spills/releases, extreme weather events and communicable disease outbreaks.
• Performs other duties of similar nature or level.
• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

Bachelor's degree in Environmental Health, or Physical or Biological Sciences or related degree and six months of employment in the field of environmental health sanitation preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above. Current certification as a Registered Sanitarian preferred. If not currently certified, must be eligible to obtain the Registered Sanitarian credential within one year, or as determined upon hire.

• Communicates clearly and effectively, both verbally and in…