Environmental Health Specialist (Compliance Specialist III)

A career with Johnson County Government is more than just a job, it is an opportunity to serve a diverse and expanding community in meaningful ways. We challenge ourselves to be a different kind of government because we care deeply about our community and each other. Committed to our shared values, we provide excellent public service, seeking always to improve ourselves and our organization. We offer wonderful benefits, retirement plans, wellness incentives, a great organizational culture, and much more! If you’re searching for something more than just a job, something akin to a calling, then consider the challenge and opportunity of being a member of Johnson County Government!

Johnson County Department of Health and Environment is looking for a qualified candidates to fill the position of Environmental Health Specialists.  These positions are located at 11811 S Sunset Drive, Suite 2700, Olathe, KS 66061.  The positions provide excellent benefits, including health insurance, wellness programs and discounts, retirement programs, and various other discount programs. 

Environmental Health Specialists are responsible for assuring compliance with the Private Wastewater Treatment (Septic Systems) and Aquatics Inspection provisions of the Johnson County Environmental Sanitary Code. Other compliance inspections may be required.  Occasional rotation on the spill response team may be required.

This position will remain open until filled, with first review of applications on October 28, 2024, and an anticipated start date of January 13, 2024.

General responsibilities include:

• Gathers and records information on complaints, inspections, emergency calls, and requests for investigation/evaluations; enforces applicable regulatory Federal laws, codes, and regulations; gives assistance and guidance to staff members on difficult cases, including suggesting possible approaches.
• Inspects, tests and analyzes samples and/or data; designs and conducts advanced level surveys and studies in assigned specialty area(s); may work to coordinate work with those of other County, State, and Federal agencies on major projects and/or hazardous situations in cooperation with team and manager; performs technical analyses and evaluation of complex plans and specifications for specialty area(s).
• Prepares technical reports and official correspondence; reviews documents and reports; provides information and assistance to the public (including property owners, business operators, developers/real estate agents, engineering professionals), other county agencies, and other jurisdictions; presents reports on activities at public meetings to team and supervisor; prepares reports for summons requests, subpoenas and case histories; may testify as an expert witness at court and/or regulatory hearings; provides technical assistance and/or training and public education. 
• Oversees agency emergency response during emergency notification; responds, coordinates, and ensures compliance during emergency incident; assists in the investigation of assigned emergency incidents; ensures contractors are in place to act in emergency response.

Bachelor's degree in Public Health, Environmental Public Health, Environmental Science, Biology, Chemistry, Engineering or related field, and four (4) years of related experience.  Certification in job specific area(s) such as certified swimming pool operator, Hazwoper, and onsite septic trainings will be expected. A valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record is also required.

Master's degree in the following fields: Public Health, Environmental Public Health, Environmental Science, Biology, Chemistry, Engineering or related field is preferred. 

*Experience may not be substituted for degree.  Education may not be substituted for experience.

Within sixty (60) days of hire, employees must produce proof of immunization, proof of immunity, or proof that immunization is medically contraindicated, submit a written objection to immunization based upon a sincerely held religious belief, or receive vaccination for the following:  Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR); Tetanus Diphtheria and Acellular Pertussis (TDAP); and Varicella (Chickenpox).  

Hepatitis vaccine will be offered to staff inspecting septic systems.