Public Health Sanitarian

Overview & Benefits

Oakland County is more than just a workplace. It is a place where you can make a real difference. As one of Michigan’s leading public service organizations, we are committed to strengthening communities, delivering essential services, and improving the quality of life for nearly 1.3 million residents.

When you join our team, you become part of a mission-driven workforce guided by integrity, innovation, and a passion for public service. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to do meaningful work that matters. Apply today and help shape the future of Oakland County, where we are All Ways Moving Forward.

For more information about Oakland County benefits and employee perks, please visit:

https://www.oakgov.com/government/human-resources/benefits/new-hire

General Summary

As part of the Oakland County Health Division, you’ll be on the front lines of ensuring safe and healthy living conditions for residents. In this role, you’ll enforce the County Sanitary Code and State environmental health laws while carrying out meaningful, hands-on work in the community.

You’ll conduct field inspections at restaurants, care facilities, recreational areas, and residential sites, helping safeguard the places where people live, work, and gather. You’ll also perform soil evaluations for sewage disposal systems, review data to ensure safe water supplies, and provide expert recommendations that protect public health.

In addition, you’ll represent Environmental Health Services in appeals related to sewage, water, and food service facilities, maintaining accurate documentation and offering well-informed recommendations on licensing or code compliance. By leveraging the County’s technology systems, you’ll keep cases organized and operations efficient.

This role gives you the opportunity to combine fieldwork, research, and public service, making a direct and lasting impact on the health and safety of Oakland County communities.

What You’ll Do:

• Protect community health by enforcing the County Sanitary Code and State environmental health laws.
• Get out in the field to inspect restaurants, care facilities, recreational sites, and residential properties, making sure they meet the highest standards of safety.
• Conduct soil evaluations for on-site sewage disposal and review data to ensure safe and reliable water supplies.
• Represent Environmental Health Services in appeals related to sanitation and food safety, presenting expert insights that guide critical decisions.
• Keep thorough records and provide recommendations that influence licensing, compliance, and public trust.
• Use the County’s technology tools to manage cases and keep operations running smoothly.

Why You'll Love This Job:

• Get out into the community instead of being tied to a desk every day
• Protect the health and safety of Oakland County residents in meaningful ways
• See the direct impact of your work, from ensuring safe drinking water to supporting food safety where families gather
• Enjoy a balance of fieldwork, research, and public service that keeps your work dynamic and engaging
• Be part of a passionate team dedicated to creating a healthier, safer community for everyone

Required Minimum Qualifications

What You'll Need: 

1. a. Possess a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in Environmental Health; OR

b. Possess a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in public health, environmental science, or environmental policy, and have earned 30 semester/45 quarter hours of college credit in basic science coursework (per National Environmental Health Association credentialing requirements); OR

2. a. Possess a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in physical or biological sciences, or a closely related field; AND

b. Have had at least one (1) year of full time, supervised experience in environmental health.

3. Possess a valid motor vehicle operator's or chauffeur's license.

Special Requirements

1. Must maintain a valid United States motor vehicle operator’s or chauffeur’s license.

2. Must submit to immunizations as required by the Health Division and to periodic tuberculin skin tests or chest x rays at County expense.

Pay Range

EEO and Inclusion Statements

EEO Statement

We are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances.

Inclusion Statement

Oakland County is committed to welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, including those with prior convictions, as we believe in providing equal opportunities for all. We value the unique perspectives and experiences each individual brings to our team and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace. If you have the skills and qualifications for the position, we encourage you to apply. All candidates are evaluated based on their ability to meet the job requirements, legal obligations and thrive in our organization. All ways, MOVING FORWARD.