Environmental Technician

ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNICIAN DEFINITION: This is responsible field and administrative work in support of environmental programs administered by the Public Health Madison and Dane County. Work primarily involves field inspection and sampling activities associated with the department's licensed establishments, transient non-community (TNC) well program, landfill, storm and non-storm water, and lake water monitoring programs. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Public Health Supervisor and/or the leadership of the Public Health Sanitarian or Leadworker. EXAMPLES OF DUTIES: This class specification covers multiple positions in the Environmental Health Section that are each assigned to specific tasks. Perform field sampling of TNC wells and public swimming pools, field sampling of groundwater at landfill sites, non-storm and storm water environmental sampling, in accordance with prescribed standards. Perform standardized field tests as required. Maintain sampling equipment. Perform field repairs as necessary. Maintain necessary records and provide data/samples to lab and/or other agencies, as specified. Help to inspect, consult and obtain compliance with health ordinances, codes and standards in general sanitation; evaluate sanitary applications and their compliance with state codes. Survey campgrounds, recreational camps, public swimming places/pools, motels, tourist rooming houses, bed and breakfast facilities, simple restaurants, small retail food establishments, schools, and mobile home parks for compliance with applicable health laws. Provide support to other Public Health Department programs such as mosquito monitoring, laboratory testing and general operations. Respond to environmental complaints from the public in consultation with the Public Health Sanitarian or Leadworker; and/or refer complainants as appropriate. Investigate environmental hazards; assess situation; sample as appropriate; and make recommendations to leadworker or supervisor. Coordinate with others as needed and follow-up on remediation procedures. Document entire process. Perform miscellaneous office activities involving scheduling appointments and daily work, review inspection files, consult with other departments, write letters, and issue written complaints and reports.

Enter inspections directly into a field computer at time of inspection. Perform related work as required. EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS: Education, Experience and Credentials: Two years of responsible technical experience in water pollution or in related environmental health work. Such experience will normally be gained after graduation from high school, supplemented by college or technical school courses in the areas of the environmental sciences/health and/or water resources. The ideal candidate will have worked in an internship in a health department. Other combinations of training and/or experience which can be demonstrated to result in the possession of the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to perform the duties of this position will also be considered. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Working knowledge of general office practices. Ability to implement administrative policies and procedures. Ability to follow written and oral instructions. Ability to maintain the integrity of samples, perform specialized sampling techniques, and perform standardized environmental field tests and investigations. Ability to identify potential environmental problems and recommend appropriate actions and laboratory tests. Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with local officials and the general public. Ability to develop and maintain recordkeeping systems. Ability to prepare routine reports, records and correspondence. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

Knowledge of the principles and practices of environmental sanitation; working knowledge of environmental health and related scientific theory and practices applicable to food protection, environmental contamination, communicable diseases, sanitation and health nuisance abatement; some knowledge of chemistry and bacteriology and its relation to water, milk, and food sanitation; knowledge of health and safety laws and codes and their practical application; some knowledge of City and County ordinances, State laws, rules and administrative codes relative to environmental health programs; knowledge of mechanical principles relative to the maintenance of sampling equipment and wells. Some knowledge of water pollution and landfill monitoring procedures, terminology and equipment.; ability to maintain the integrity of samples, perform specialized sampling techniques, and perform standardized environmental field tests and investigations; ability to recognize health law violations and; ability to perform all types of environmental inspections and use appropriate field equipment; ability to secure pertinent information through inspections and to analyze, interpret and make corrections based on this information; ability to perform and interpret required physical and chemical tests; ability to effectively use computers in the office or in the field while conducting inspections; ability to use safety and personal protective equipment as needed; physical strength, ability to lift a minimum of 50 lb and up to 120 lb, dexterity and acuity inherent in the collection of field samples, including ability to work under freezing conditions and on unstable ground / platform /ladders. Ability to work under adverse weather conditions; ability to physically access and inspect diverse locations requiring stamina and agility.

Necessary Special Qualifications: SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Must have access to personal transportation and have or be eligible for a valid Wisconsin driver's license.