Environmental Health Specialist
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SPECIALIST
Do you want to make a difference in your community? Are you passionate about public health and environmental safety? Do you thrive in a role that combines science, field work, and service to protect the well-being of others? Are you looking for a supportive, mission-driven organization that values your expertise?
Join the Knox County Health Department, where your work will directly impact the health and safety of our community. We are seeking an Environmental Health Specialist to help play a key role in our environmental health programs and uphold vital public health standards.
Who Are We:
The Knox County Health Department is committed to promoting and protecting public health through education, regulation, and prevention efforts. Our Environmental Health team ensures compliance with public health regulations related to food safety, water quality, sewage disposal, and general environmental conditions throughout Knox County.
Job Summary:
The Environmental Health Specialist performs technical fieldwork and inspection duties under the supervision of a Licensed Environmental Health Practitioner (LEHP). The position supports multiple environmental health programs and works closely with residents, business owners, and contractors to maintain a safe and healthy environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct inspections of food service operations, private water wells, sewage systems, and other regulated facilities.
- Review permit applications and perform onsite evaluations for wells, sewage disposal systems, and environmental complaints.
- Investigate potential public health hazards, nuisance complaints, and suspected disease outbreaks.
- Collect and submit environmental samples for laboratory analysis; interpret and document results.
- Provide education and guidance to businesses, homeowners, and contractors regarding compliance with local and state regulations.
- Participate in enforcement proceedings and provide testimony at administrative or court hearings, as required.
- Maintain records of inspections, surveys, and communications.
- Participate in performance management, quality improvement, and training activities.
- Assist in onboarding and training new staff as directed.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support departmental goals.
Skills and Abilities:
- Working knowledge of environmental health principles, public health laws, and regulations.
- Excellent communication, documentation, and organizational skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- Comfort working in diverse field settings and weather conditions.
- Proficient in report writing, data interpretation, and use of Microsoft Office tools.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with at least 30 semester hours in the physical and/or biological sciences.
- Must apply for an Environmental Health Practitioner-in-Training license within six (6) months of hire.
- Must obtain full Environmental Health Practitioner licensure within three (3) years of hire.
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.
Why Join Us?
- Play a vital role in keeping your community safe and healthy
- Work with a supportive and skilled public health team
- Develop professionally through diverse fieldwork and training
- Enjoy meaningful work that truly makes a difference
Full-Time Position (35 hours per week)
Competitive Salary: $28.62 per hour
Benefits Include:
- County Holiday Schedule
- Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
- Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) Pension Program
- Paid Vacation, Sick, and Personal Leave
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit their resume to hr@knoxcountyhealth.org or apply on our website at www. knoxcountyhealth.org.
Protecting the health of our community starts with you- apply today!
Job Type: Full-time (In-Person)
Pay: $28.62 per hour