Environmental Sanitarian

MPHI is a Michigan-based and nationally engaged, non-profit public health institute. We are a team of teams, process and content experts, dedicated to building A world where tomorrow is healthier than today!

Title: Environmental Sanitarian

$52,062.40- $87,734.40 / Posted Thru: 9-18-2026

Location: Remote/Virtual - Regular travel throughout Michigan - Must Live and Work in Michigan

Purpose: This individual will serve as an Environmental Sanitarian for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Environmental Health Bureau, Chemical Planning and Response Section, Drinking Water and Environmental Sampling Unit. This individual will implement sampling protocols in order to investigate the source of chemical contamination and to provide information essential in the preparation of public health determinations; ensure that all aspects of collection, labeling, and delivery of samples are properly implemented, ensure analytical data are logged and managed according to established protocols, and summarize and report results as tables, graphs, figures, maps, and/or text for each sampling event. This position will interact with the public, representatives from local government, other state agencies, representatives of federal government, and contractual staff in the normal performance of these duties. This position will be required to maintain Lead Inspector/Risk Assessor (LIRA) and 40-hour HAZWOPER certifications. Training will be provided by MDHHS within one year of hire. Key duties of the position include: Conducting investigations of tap water in homes, schools, and other building; correctly implementing procedures to sample water, dust, soil or other media; assist in determining the source of the contaminant and provide recommendations for preventing human exposure. Maintaining accurate and well-organized records. Preparing reports summarizing data from sampling events.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Duty 1 (50% of time) - Sample collection, transport, and delivery. Document and report on data generated from the investigation of chemical contaminants which may potentially impact public health.

Responsibilities:

• Implement protocols for the collection of samples for chemical specific analysis; transport of samples to the lab for analysis; and capture of analytical data in an electronic data system.
• Ensure quality sample collection, transport, documentation (paper and electronic), and reporting for investigation events.
• Prepare or assist in preparing reports and provide outreach materials and recommendations to residents and other private drinking water supply owners.
• Schedule sample collection events in a timely manner and follow-through with appointments as scheduled.
• Complete, prepare or otherwise assist with the preparation of results letters and other documents associated with data generated as a result of sample collection.
• Develop or assist with the development of sample collection plans for routine and complex sites when directed.

Duty 2 (5% of time) - Provide onsite inspections for chemicals contaminants and ensure that recommended remediation activities are properly performed.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct inspections and sampling in homes where environmental health hazards may be present or suspected to be present.
• Provide public health recommendations to residents as directed.
• Provide equipment, educational materials and services to residents such as the delivery and/or installation of water filters, educational materials and other such equipment as directed.
• Identify any additional lead abatement activities that may be needed and make referrals to Healthy Homes Section programs.

Duty 3 (30% of time) - Records management and reporting.

Responsibilities:

• Maintain accurate and timely administrative and personnel records to include accurate tracking of time and appointments in MS Outlook and other programs, tracking and reporting of activities in quarterly reports as assigned and other similar activity tracking responsibilities.
• Conduct and document quality control measures to ensure all aspects of the drinking water protocols are being followed.
• Assist with data interpretation, identification, and potential remediation of contaminant source.

Duty 4 (15% of time) - Training and other duties as assigned.

Responsibilities:

• Pending funding and approval, attend one or more workshops, seminars, webinars, training, or meetings about investigating chemical contaminants in drinking water.
• Maintain LIRA and 40-hour HAZWOPER certifications.
• Perform other duties as assigned such that those duties support the mission of the bureau to protect public health.

Other Responsibilities:

• Always represent the best interests of MDHHS and MPHI.
• All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications/Requirements:

Education: Possession of a bachelor's degree in the physical or biological sciences, sanitary science or environmental health.

Experience: No specific type or amount is required; however, preference will be given to applicants who demonstrate professional experience in any of the following fields: environmental health, water wells, lead abatement, plumbing, or municipal water systems. RS/REHS credential is preferred but not required.

Important Skills and Characteristics:

• Knowledge of the principles and practices of the physical or biological sciences, sanitary science, or environmental health.
• Knowledge of the techniques of collecting and analyzing data.
• Knowledge of environmental health terminology. Knowledge of the function and authority of state and local health departments.
• Knowledge of environmental health problems in various related program areas.
• Knowledge of standards related to environmental health programs.
• Knowledge of inspection and regulation methods in environmental health.
• Knowledge of state and federal laws pertaining to environmental health.
• Ability to conduct studies, evaluate results and prepare reports.
• Ability to meet and work with officials of government, industry, medical care facilities, and the general public.
• Ability to observe critically and evaluate findings.
• Ability to maintain records and prepare reports and correspondence related to the work.
• Ability to communicate effectively with others. Ability to maintain favorable public relations.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements: Physical effort is typical of an office position. Requires valid vehicle operator's license and regular travel within the State, including occasional overnights. Less occasionally, travel may be required outside the State. Proper operation and maintenance of a State vehicle will be necessary. There may be times when work outside of regular hours is necessary for the completion of a project, such as during emergency response. The employee may need to conduct site visits and attend public events around the state. Work materials and supplies can be bulky and individual items may weigh up to 25 lbs. Site visits may require door-to-door work. The employee would be exposed to local weather conditions. The employee may be exposed to unpleasant and noxious household fumes and odors when conducting site visits. Site visits and events may occur multiple times per month.

RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE WORK OF OTHERS: No assigned responsibility.

IMPACT ON PROJECTS, SERVICES AND OPERATIONS:

This position has a direct impact on the quality of services provided by MPHI to MDHHS. Independent judgment is required to carry out assignments that have a significant impact on the implementation of the water sampling protocol, data summary, reporting, and remediation activities needed to reduce people's exposure to chemicals in drinking water.

REQUIRED COMMUNICATION

Contact Person/Group	Frequency	Purpose
Supervisor	Daily	Supervision
Internal Partners	As Needed	Collaboration
External Stakeholders	As Needed	Collaboration

For purposes of employment standards, this classification is "Non-Exempt" from overtime provisions of the fair Labor Standards Act.

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