Health Protection Scientist

Job Posting Title:

Health Protection Scientist

Department:

Planning & Development Services

Location:

415 SILVER AVE SW

Pay Range:

$25.97 - $41.04

Close Date:

May 4, 2026

The Health Protection Scientist performs professional-level inspection, education, and compliance services to enforce a wide range of environmental health codes. This role works with diverse populations and delivers excellent customer service to the public, external clients, and County employees.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist with on-site facility inspections and conduct field investigations under the guidance of a Health Protection Scientist II; ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and codes; authorize permits to support sanitation and code compliance.
• Enforce laws and regulations related to public swimming pools, food processing and service establishments, general health and sanitation, and noise control.
• Investigate routine environmental complaints and recommend corrective actions; prepare written reports outlining methods to protect public health.
• Collect field samples and public health-related data for laboratory analysis or trend evaluation.
• Prepare and present reports summarizing inspection results and analysis findings; deliver presentations to clients, agencies, community forums, the general public, and County departments.
• Conduct routine site visits and inspections performed by the Health Protection team; review operational plans for food service and food processing establishments.
• Prepare and coordinate environmental health cases scheduled for court hearings.
• Interpret and explain environmental health ordinances, rules, and procedures; respond to inquiries from the public.
• Develop, deliver, and evaluate public health education programs focused on preventing environmental and communicable diseases.
• Collaborate with private organizations and government agencies to improve environmental health practices and safeguard public health.
• Prepare reports, correspondence, and maintain records of inspections and investigations.
• Handle sensitive or confidential records, plans, and decisions; maintain confidentiality in accordance with policy and regulations.

*The above information is intended to outline the general nature and scope of the duties required for this position. It is not an exhaustive list and may vary depending on specific job assignments and responsibilities. 


MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Physical, Natural, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Two (2) years of work experience in environmental health, code enforcement, food protection, and/or inspection.

*Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience may be considered for the above requirements. 

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Health Protection Scientist Level I requires advanced certification from National Swimming Pool Foundation as a certified pool operator obtained within nine (9) months from date of hire.
• Successful completion of Food Protection Manager Certification of equivalent within nine (9) months from date of hire.

SCREENING AND COMPLIANCE
The offer of this Bernalillo County position requires compliance with the following:

• Complete the post-offer employment medical examination and background investigation.
• Comply with the safety guidelines of the County.
• This position is safety sensitive. Employment is subject to a pre-employment and random drug testing in accordance with all terms and conditions of federal and state rules and regulations regarding alcohol and/or drug testing.
• Complete required FEMA training(s) as assigned to position.
• Possess a valid New Mexico driver’s license by employment date and maintain a valid NM driver’s license while employed in this position.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Major duties are performed 50% indoors and 50% outdoors and the employee will be exposed to extremes of heat, cold and humidity.
• Indoor duties may be conducted on both even and uneven surfaces and may involve climbing stairs, ramps, catwalks, entering enclosed spaces such as freezers and encountering wet, grease or dust covered surfaces.
• Outdoor duties may be performed on either hard or soft surfaces in all weather and terrain conditions.
• Performs duties alone or as a member of a team or group.
• Work hazards or potential hazards include exposure to chemicals, animals, bio-hazards, industrial and domestic waste, radiation, burns, lacerations, contusions, falls, intermittent noise, intermittent vibration, driving a vehicle, fumes, odors, dust, mists, gases, poor ventilation and polluted water.
• Subject to varying and unpredictable situations; conditions that may affect the skin or respiratory system, variation in temperature from hot to cold.

EQUIPMENT, TOOLS AND, MATERIALS

• Computers, environmental monitoring equipment, laboratory equipment, telephone, two-way radio, fax, photocopier, metal probes, shovels, wrenches, ladders, paper forms, chemicals and Material Safety Data Sheets.
• County vehicle is used by employee in traveling from site-to-site throughout the county.
• Safety equipment may include hard hat, rubber boots, gloves, facemask and first aid kit.