Transylvania County, NC
Environmental Health Program Specialist
Transylvania County, NC, Wilmington, North Carolina, United States, 28412
Salary:
$26.09 - $40.43 Hourly Location :
NC 28712, NC Job Type:
Full-Time Job Number:
00401 Department:
Public Health Division:
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH Opening Date:
09/19/2025 Closing Date:
10/3/2025 5:00 PM Eastern FLSA:
Non-Exempt
About We're looking for a dedicated
Environmental Health Program Specialist
to help safeguard our communities through expert oversight, education, and enforcement of environmental health standards.
This is advanced professional environmental health work focused on promoting public health through education, surveillance, consultation, inspection, and enforcement of State, local, and Federal environmental health laws and regulations. The position may serve as a program specialist or coordinator, with responsibilities that include providing expert consultation on complex environmental health issues, conducting inspections, and supporting compliance efforts across a range of regulated facilities and services. These may include food service establishments, lodging facilities, schools, child care centers, swimming pools, tattoo parlors, residential care homes, and private water supplies. The role may also involve limited supervisory duties and coordination of specialized environmental health programs, including those related to children's environmental health and lead poisoning prevention. Essential Functions
On-Site Wastewater Program:
Evaluate sites for suitability and issue Improvement Permits (IP) and/or Construction Authorizations (CA/AC), or provide detailed denial letters. Inspect newly installed septic systems and issue Operation Permits (OP) upon satisfactory completion. Investigate and resolve sewage-related complaints. Inspect existing septic systems for construction-related projects (e.g., mobile home replacements, building permits) to ensure compliance with NCGS/NCAC.
Private Drinking Water Well Program:
Conduct site evaluations and issue permits for new well construction, repairs, or abandonment, or provide detailed denial letters. Perform grouting inspections of newly constructed wells. Observe and document well abandonment procedures. Inspect completed well heads for compliance with applicable rules. Collect water samples and conduct health risk evaluations based on lab results.
Program Oversight and Support:
Assist with workload assignments and provide technical guidance on complex environmental health issues. Train, mentor, and evaluate new Environmental Health Specialists. Manage and implement Quality Assurance Plans for On-Site Water Protection programs.
Migrant Housing Inspections (as needed):
Inspect water supplies and collect bacteriological water samples. Inspect on-site wastewater systems to ensure proper function and compliance.
Public Swimming Pool Program:
Communicate with pool operators regarding rules, regulations, fees, permits, and applications. Conduct inspections at state-mandated frequencies and issue, deny, suspend, or revoke permits based on findings. Educate pool operators and the public on health and safety regulations. Investigate complaints related to public health and safety and implement corrective actions as needed.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS - Routine office duties require minimal physical exertion and a normal range of motion. - Fieldwork, particularly in the On-Site Wastewater and Well Programs, involves frequent physical activity and moderate to strenuous exertion. - Must be able to walk long distances over uneven, steep, or wooded terrain in various weather conditions. - Soil and site evaluations may require the use of metal probe rods, handheld soil augers, and inspection of test pits, which can involve repetitive motion, joint strain, and physical endurance. - May be required to lift and maneuver heavy objects, such as septic tank lids, well tile covers, and other field equipment. - Regular interaction with the public, including individuals who may be uncooperative or confrontational, can result in emotional stress and requires strong interpersonal and conflict-resolution skills. WORK ENVIRONMENT Field working conditions involve exposure to steep terrain, weather/temperature extremes, biting insects, snakes, dogs, poison ivy, thorny/thick vegetation, filth, pesticides and other chemicals, slippery floors, and/or loud noises from construction sites and well drilling rigs. Safety protocols and/or Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) shall be used as required for each situation.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described. Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may be reasonably considered to be incidental in the performing of their duties just as though they were actually written out in this job description.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Knowledge of environmental health laws, rules, and procedures, as well as complete understanding of the concepts of public health law. Knowledge of microbiology, biology, chemistry, food science, epidemiology, soil science, entomology, and basic engineering technology as applied to environmental health practices. Knowledge of the responsibilities of other agencies relating to environmental health and community resources. Knowledge of the interrelationship between socio-economic factors and environmental health concerns. Knowledge of the design of on-site wastewater treatment systems, protection of water supplies, food sanitation, food borne diseases, communicable diseases, vector control, solid waste management, and institutional sanitation. Ability to analyze and comprehend a wide variety of technical and administrative regulations, records, and reports. Ability to exercise sound judgment and deal tactfully with a wide range of public contacts while enforcing public health laws and regulations. Ability to motivate and educate business and property owners and the consuming public in matters related to protecting and promoting public health. Ability to present formal environmental health training programs. Ability to develop and express ideas and opinions concisely, comprehensively, and clearly in oral and written form. Ability to independently plan and schedule work activities and perform assignments. Ability to apply environmental health knowledges and techniques in the investigation of environmental health problems. Ability to coordinate work in a specialized program area. Ability to plan and implement education programs. Ability to work with others in solving the more complex environmental problems. Education and Experience
Minimum Education and Experience: Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university and two (2) years of experience at the Environmental Health Specialist level in a health department.
Required Licenses or Certifications: Driver's License valid in the State of North Carolina. Registered as a Sanitarian by the N.C. State Board of Sanitarian Examiners Current Authorization in Onsite Wastewater, Private Drinking Water Wells, and Public Swimming Pools.
Additional Requirements ad Information:
Ability to pass pre-hire background check and drug screen The salary details listed on this job posting are in a range designated by the set salary grades of our most recent salary plan. To ensure fair and accurate salary placement, applicants are strongly encouraged to provide a complete and detailed employment history. Incomplete job histories may result in a lower starting salary offer, as relevant experience cannot be fully evaluated without sufficient documentation.
Medical Insurance
$50 per month premium paid by the employee / county pay remaining portion Employee can cover children/spouse/family at their own cost for medical coverage $77.56/$265.92/ $426.28 per month. In addition to the $50 per month for the employee. Employees may qualify for a $50 per month discount. Beginning in 2016, employees must participate in the employee health screening including a base line physical and meet 2 of the 4 accountability standards set forth by the Board of Commissioners to receive the discount. Waist circumference abdomen cir
Blood Pressure
Cholesterol Ratio
Hemoglobin A1c
Premiums may be pre-taxed which is a savings to your taxes, but if you pre-tax premiums you can't take the costs off of your taxes. Blue Options PPO /Administered by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Employee has choice of 2 Health Plans. Plan 1 - Co-Pay Plan for In-Network- $40 Copays for Primary Care Visit, $80 Specialist Visit, Urgent Care and RX. All other services apply to $1,500 deductible, then 80/20 co-insurance up to $2,000 out-of-pocket maximum. See Plan 1 document for more detailed information. Plan 2 - Deductible Plan for In-Network except $25 co-pay for Primary Care Visit and RX. All other services apply to $1,000 deductible, then 80/20 co-insurance up to $2,000 out-of-pocket maximum. See Plan 2 document for more detailed information. Routine eye examinations only are covered annually for a BCBSNC network provider. Prescription Drugs - 4 Tiers - $5 generic/ $45 preferred / $60.00 non preferred /4th Tier is 25% up to a max of $100.00./ Mail order is available @ 2.5 co-pays for a 90 day supply. 90 day supply at pharmacy. Verify network participation, RX tiers, and obtain information at www.bcbsnc.com. Self Funded Health Insurance Plan - Deductible of $75,000. Dental Insurance - Can choose different level of coverage than Medical
Administered by Ameritas Employee is covered under the dental coverage at no cost. An employee can cover children/spouse/family for $57.26/ $22.52/ $72.38 per month, respectively. No Network of Dentists, may choose any provider Provides 2 routine cleanings and exams with no deductible For other services a $50 plan year deductible 80% for root canals, fillings - 50% for crowns, bridgework, dentures $1000 maximum for braces/ $1000 maximum per covered individual per year which includes preventative care costs Obtain information & replacement cards at www.ameritasgroup.com. Term Life Insurance - Provided for the Employee - Dearborn National
$10,000 Life and $10,000 Accidental Death Employee may purchase additional amounts. Up to $100,000 Guaranteed Issue for employee;$20,000 for spouse and $10,000 or $5,000 for children (at original eligibility). Otherwise late enrollees are subject to Underwriting guidelines. Supplemental Insurance Products -
Mark III Brokerage assists the county to provide a full-array of supplemental products such as Health and Dependent Care FSA accounts, Cancer Policy, Short-term and Long-term Disability, Term Life, Universal Life, Accident or Illness Policy, Hospital Indemnity, and a Vision Plan. The Supplemental Products are available during original employment or open enrollment in May/June of each year to employees at group rates and premiums are paid through payroll deduction. Policies will be effective on July 1.
If you are interested in knowing more about these benefits view the following website for details. or a link is available on the county Intranet. Then sign up during your original enrollment window by contacting Human Resources. Some of the products qualify as pre-tax benefits. Website for information is:
Electronic Payroll Deposit
-
County Employees are paid bi-weekly, 26 times per year. We deposit your payroll check. Deposits are available to all banks and credit unions. Deposits are made, so you can have access to your funds by Friday morning (payday). You can divide your payroll into two accounts, one you must specify the amount to go into and the second account would receive the balance.
Retirement
-
NC Local Government Employees Retirement System - All full-time employees contribute 6% of their gross earnings and the County matches the contribution. Employees are vested in the program after 5 years of service. Transferable within the state system. The website for more information is:
401K - Empower Retirement - 2% Employer Contribution, Voluntary Contributions, Rollovers, etc. (Info Available). The website is:
457 - Nationwide Retirement Solutions - After 5 years of full-time service the County will provide a contribution of $57.69 per payroll / $1500 per year for employees. At 5 years of service, eligible employees must complete an enrollment form. The website is
Credit Union
-
County Employees may be a member in the NC Local Government Employees Credit Union which is affiliated with the State Employees Credit Union. Local office is in Pisgah Forest. Payroll deduction and drafts are available. The website is
Paid Holidays
- (12)
New Year's Day, Martin Luther King's Birthday, Easter Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veteran's Day, Thanksgiving Day and the Day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve Day, Christmas Day and the day after Christmas.
Paid Vacation/Annual Leave -
1-2 years = 10 days; 3-5 years = 12 days, 5-10 years = 15 days, 10-15 years = 18 days, 15-20 years = 20 days; 20 + years = 24 days. Vacation is accrued bi-weekly, therefore you receive 1/26th each payroll. You may accrue vacation and carry over up to 30 days. Thereafter, at the end of the calendar year, if you have more than the 30 days, the excess converts to sick leave. You may cash in up to one week of vacation annually, in lieu of time away from work. In extreme situations employees may request to transfer vacation leave to other employees. Requests must be in writing to the County Manager and must be approved in advance. Vacation should be scheduled in advance as requested by your supervisor. Complete proper leave sheets. If you have prior active service in the NC Retirement System, Transylvania County will give you credit for those years of service toward accrual of vacation/annual leave. Paid Sick Leave -
Paid sick leave is always equivalent to 12 days per year. It is accrued bi-weekly. Employees accrue 1/26th of the annual amount per payroll. You may accrue sick leave with no maximum accrual. At retirement for every 20 days of accrued sick leave you will get one additional month of service time. Sick leave may be used for doctor's appointments, personal illness or the illness of an immediate family member. If you have prior active service in the NC Retirement System, Transylvania County will transfer in your sick leave balance from your most recent employer. Wellness Center - Phone Number (828)884-3115
The Wellness Center is open M-W-F 8am -12pm and 1pm to 4pm and T-TH 8am-12pm. The Wellness Center is a partnership between Transylvania County and the City of Brevard. County Employees may use the Wellness Center for all services at no cost. Dependents over the age of 7 who are on your Medical plan may also use the Wellness Center. Appointments are encouraged to help minimize any wait and to make the Center Services flow easier. Time away from your work location to visit the Wellness Center is not changed to leave. Services include: Routine bloodwork monitoring, allergy injections, monitoring chronic illnesses, manage and authorize prescriptions, coordinate referrals, school physicals and testing for flu, mono and strep.
$26.09 - $40.43 Hourly Location :
NC 28712, NC Job Type:
Full-Time Job Number:
00401 Department:
Public Health Division:
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH Opening Date:
09/19/2025 Closing Date:
10/3/2025 5:00 PM Eastern FLSA:
Non-Exempt
About We're looking for a dedicated
Environmental Health Program Specialist
to help safeguard our communities through expert oversight, education, and enforcement of environmental health standards.
This is advanced professional environmental health work focused on promoting public health through education, surveillance, consultation, inspection, and enforcement of State, local, and Federal environmental health laws and regulations. The position may serve as a program specialist or coordinator, with responsibilities that include providing expert consultation on complex environmental health issues, conducting inspections, and supporting compliance efforts across a range of regulated facilities and services. These may include food service establishments, lodging facilities, schools, child care centers, swimming pools, tattoo parlors, residential care homes, and private water supplies. The role may also involve limited supervisory duties and coordination of specialized environmental health programs, including those related to children's environmental health and lead poisoning prevention. Essential Functions
On-Site Wastewater Program:
Evaluate sites for suitability and issue Improvement Permits (IP) and/or Construction Authorizations (CA/AC), or provide detailed denial letters. Inspect newly installed septic systems and issue Operation Permits (OP) upon satisfactory completion. Investigate and resolve sewage-related complaints. Inspect existing septic systems for construction-related projects (e.g., mobile home replacements, building permits) to ensure compliance with NCGS/NCAC.
Private Drinking Water Well Program:
Conduct site evaluations and issue permits for new well construction, repairs, or abandonment, or provide detailed denial letters. Perform grouting inspections of newly constructed wells. Observe and document well abandonment procedures. Inspect completed well heads for compliance with applicable rules. Collect water samples and conduct health risk evaluations based on lab results.
Program Oversight and Support:
Assist with workload assignments and provide technical guidance on complex environmental health issues. Train, mentor, and evaluate new Environmental Health Specialists. Manage and implement Quality Assurance Plans for On-Site Water Protection programs.
Migrant Housing Inspections (as needed):
Inspect water supplies and collect bacteriological water samples. Inspect on-site wastewater systems to ensure proper function and compliance.
Public Swimming Pool Program:
Communicate with pool operators regarding rules, regulations, fees, permits, and applications. Conduct inspections at state-mandated frequencies and issue, deny, suspend, or revoke permits based on findings. Educate pool operators and the public on health and safety regulations. Investigate complaints related to public health and safety and implement corrective actions as needed.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS - Routine office duties require minimal physical exertion and a normal range of motion. - Fieldwork, particularly in the On-Site Wastewater and Well Programs, involves frequent physical activity and moderate to strenuous exertion. - Must be able to walk long distances over uneven, steep, or wooded terrain in various weather conditions. - Soil and site evaluations may require the use of metal probe rods, handheld soil augers, and inspection of test pits, which can involve repetitive motion, joint strain, and physical endurance. - May be required to lift and maneuver heavy objects, such as septic tank lids, well tile covers, and other field equipment. - Regular interaction with the public, including individuals who may be uncooperative or confrontational, can result in emotional stress and requires strong interpersonal and conflict-resolution skills. WORK ENVIRONMENT Field working conditions involve exposure to steep terrain, weather/temperature extremes, biting insects, snakes, dogs, poison ivy, thorny/thick vegetation, filth, pesticides and other chemicals, slippery floors, and/or loud noises from construction sites and well drilling rigs. Safety protocols and/or Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) shall be used as required for each situation.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described. Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may be reasonably considered to be incidental in the performing of their duties just as though they were actually written out in this job description.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Knowledge of environmental health laws, rules, and procedures, as well as complete understanding of the concepts of public health law. Knowledge of microbiology, biology, chemistry, food science, epidemiology, soil science, entomology, and basic engineering technology as applied to environmental health practices. Knowledge of the responsibilities of other agencies relating to environmental health and community resources. Knowledge of the interrelationship between socio-economic factors and environmental health concerns. Knowledge of the design of on-site wastewater treatment systems, protection of water supplies, food sanitation, food borne diseases, communicable diseases, vector control, solid waste management, and institutional sanitation. Ability to analyze and comprehend a wide variety of technical and administrative regulations, records, and reports. Ability to exercise sound judgment and deal tactfully with a wide range of public contacts while enforcing public health laws and regulations. Ability to motivate and educate business and property owners and the consuming public in matters related to protecting and promoting public health. Ability to present formal environmental health training programs. Ability to develop and express ideas and opinions concisely, comprehensively, and clearly in oral and written form. Ability to independently plan and schedule work activities and perform assignments. Ability to apply environmental health knowledges and techniques in the investigation of environmental health problems. Ability to coordinate work in a specialized program area. Ability to plan and implement education programs. Ability to work with others in solving the more complex environmental problems. Education and Experience
Minimum Education and Experience: Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university and two (2) years of experience at the Environmental Health Specialist level in a health department.
Required Licenses or Certifications: Driver's License valid in the State of North Carolina. Registered as a Sanitarian by the N.C. State Board of Sanitarian Examiners Current Authorization in Onsite Wastewater, Private Drinking Water Wells, and Public Swimming Pools.
Additional Requirements ad Information:
Ability to pass pre-hire background check and drug screen The salary details listed on this job posting are in a range designated by the set salary grades of our most recent salary plan. To ensure fair and accurate salary placement, applicants are strongly encouraged to provide a complete and detailed employment history. Incomplete job histories may result in a lower starting salary offer, as relevant experience cannot be fully evaluated without sufficient documentation.
Medical Insurance
$50 per month premium paid by the employee / county pay remaining portion Employee can cover children/spouse/family at their own cost for medical coverage $77.56/$265.92/ $426.28 per month. In addition to the $50 per month for the employee. Employees may qualify for a $50 per month discount. Beginning in 2016, employees must participate in the employee health screening including a base line physical and meet 2 of the 4 accountability standards set forth by the Board of Commissioners to receive the discount. Waist circumference abdomen cir
Blood Pressure
Cholesterol Ratio
Hemoglobin A1c
Premiums may be pre-taxed which is a savings to your taxes, but if you pre-tax premiums you can't take the costs off of your taxes. Blue Options PPO /Administered by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Employee has choice of 2 Health Plans. Plan 1 - Co-Pay Plan for In-Network- $40 Copays for Primary Care Visit, $80 Specialist Visit, Urgent Care and RX. All other services apply to $1,500 deductible, then 80/20 co-insurance up to $2,000 out-of-pocket maximum. See Plan 1 document for more detailed information. Plan 2 - Deductible Plan for In-Network except $25 co-pay for Primary Care Visit and RX. All other services apply to $1,000 deductible, then 80/20 co-insurance up to $2,000 out-of-pocket maximum. See Plan 2 document for more detailed information. Routine eye examinations only are covered annually for a BCBSNC network provider. Prescription Drugs - 4 Tiers - $5 generic/ $45 preferred / $60.00 non preferred /4th Tier is 25% up to a max of $100.00./ Mail order is available @ 2.5 co-pays for a 90 day supply. 90 day supply at pharmacy. Verify network participation, RX tiers, and obtain information at www.bcbsnc.com. Self Funded Health Insurance Plan - Deductible of $75,000. Dental Insurance - Can choose different level of coverage than Medical
Administered by Ameritas Employee is covered under the dental coverage at no cost. An employee can cover children/spouse/family for $57.26/ $22.52/ $72.38 per month, respectively. No Network of Dentists, may choose any provider Provides 2 routine cleanings and exams with no deductible For other services a $50 plan year deductible 80% for root canals, fillings - 50% for crowns, bridgework, dentures $1000 maximum for braces/ $1000 maximum per covered individual per year which includes preventative care costs Obtain information & replacement cards at www.ameritasgroup.com. Term Life Insurance - Provided for the Employee - Dearborn National
$10,000 Life and $10,000 Accidental Death Employee may purchase additional amounts. Up to $100,000 Guaranteed Issue for employee;$20,000 for spouse and $10,000 or $5,000 for children (at original eligibility). Otherwise late enrollees are subject to Underwriting guidelines. Supplemental Insurance Products -
Mark III Brokerage assists the county to provide a full-array of supplemental products such as Health and Dependent Care FSA accounts, Cancer Policy, Short-term and Long-term Disability, Term Life, Universal Life, Accident or Illness Policy, Hospital Indemnity, and a Vision Plan. The Supplemental Products are available during original employment or open enrollment in May/June of each year to employees at group rates and premiums are paid through payroll deduction. Policies will be effective on July 1.
If you are interested in knowing more about these benefits view the following website for details. or a link is available on the county Intranet. Then sign up during your original enrollment window by contacting Human Resources. Some of the products qualify as pre-tax benefits. Website for information is:
Electronic Payroll Deposit
-
County Employees are paid bi-weekly, 26 times per year. We deposit your payroll check. Deposits are available to all banks and credit unions. Deposits are made, so you can have access to your funds by Friday morning (payday). You can divide your payroll into two accounts, one you must specify the amount to go into and the second account would receive the balance.
Retirement
-
NC Local Government Employees Retirement System - All full-time employees contribute 6% of their gross earnings and the County matches the contribution. Employees are vested in the program after 5 years of service. Transferable within the state system. The website for more information is:
401K - Empower Retirement - 2% Employer Contribution, Voluntary Contributions, Rollovers, etc. (Info Available). The website is:
457 - Nationwide Retirement Solutions - After 5 years of full-time service the County will provide a contribution of $57.69 per payroll / $1500 per year for employees. At 5 years of service, eligible employees must complete an enrollment form. The website is
Credit Union
-
County Employees may be a member in the NC Local Government Employees Credit Union which is affiliated with the State Employees Credit Union. Local office is in Pisgah Forest. Payroll deduction and drafts are available. The website is
Paid Holidays
- (12)
New Year's Day, Martin Luther King's Birthday, Easter Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veteran's Day, Thanksgiving Day and the Day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve Day, Christmas Day and the day after Christmas.
Paid Vacation/Annual Leave -
1-2 years = 10 days; 3-5 years = 12 days, 5-10 years = 15 days, 10-15 years = 18 days, 15-20 years = 20 days; 20 + years = 24 days. Vacation is accrued bi-weekly, therefore you receive 1/26th each payroll. You may accrue vacation and carry over up to 30 days. Thereafter, at the end of the calendar year, if you have more than the 30 days, the excess converts to sick leave. You may cash in up to one week of vacation annually, in lieu of time away from work. In extreme situations employees may request to transfer vacation leave to other employees. Requests must be in writing to the County Manager and must be approved in advance. Vacation should be scheduled in advance as requested by your supervisor. Complete proper leave sheets. If you have prior active service in the NC Retirement System, Transylvania County will give you credit for those years of service toward accrual of vacation/annual leave. Paid Sick Leave -
Paid sick leave is always equivalent to 12 days per year. It is accrued bi-weekly. Employees accrue 1/26th of the annual amount per payroll. You may accrue sick leave with no maximum accrual. At retirement for every 20 days of accrued sick leave you will get one additional month of service time. Sick leave may be used for doctor's appointments, personal illness or the illness of an immediate family member. If you have prior active service in the NC Retirement System, Transylvania County will transfer in your sick leave balance from your most recent employer. Wellness Center - Phone Number (828)884-3115
The Wellness Center is open M-W-F 8am -12pm and 1pm to 4pm and T-TH 8am-12pm. The Wellness Center is a partnership between Transylvania County and the City of Brevard. County Employees may use the Wellness Center for all services at no cost. Dependents over the age of 7 who are on your Medical plan may also use the Wellness Center. Appointments are encouraged to help minimize any wait and to make the Center Services flow easier. Time away from your work location to visit the Wellness Center is not changed to leave. Services include: Routine bloodwork monitoring, allergy injections, monitoring chronic illnesses, manage and authorize prescriptions, coordinate referrals, school physicals and testing for flu, mono and strep.