Environmental Health Specialist (On-Site Wastewater and Wells)

Environmental Health Specialist (On-Site Wastewater and Wells)

Salary

$57,476.00 Annually

Location

Nashville, NC

Job Type

Full Time

Job Number

2026-00096

Department

Health Department

Opening Date

10/23/2026

Closing Date

11/6/2026 11:59 PM Eastern

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

General Statement of Duties

Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.; flexibility for occasional evenings or weekends to meet the agency's needs.

The Environmental Health Specialist performs environmental health services related to on-site wastewater systems and wells. Conducts site evaluations, inspections, permitting, water samples, complaint investigations, and follow up activities to ensure compliance with state regulations. Reviews plans and technical information, evaluates soils and site conditions, maintains accurate records, and provides guidance to homeowners, contractors, and the public regarding wastewater and well requirements. Participates in quality improvement, education, and staff training activities and performs other related environmental health duties as assigned.

Essential Duties and Tasks

• Enforce applicable state laws, rules, and ordinances governing well installations and construction, private water supplies, irrigation and agricultural wells, abandonment of wells, and on-site wastewater disposal systems set forth by the state and county.
• Perform inspections and related activities for all new well installations, well repairs, well abandonment, on-site wastewater systems, and system repairs as mandated by state laws and rules.
• Evaluate soil and/or sites to determine suitability for sewage disposal systems and/or well location and make recommendations to property owners, realtors, developers, and builders.
• Assist with inspections of engineered septic tank systems under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, on-site water protection branch.
• Inspect private water supply systems, collect water samples and other materials for laboratory tests, interpret test results, inform the applicant, and take appropriate action.
• Keep accurate and detailed inspection records as mandated by the state.
• Serve as a consultant to assist applicants with proper maintenance and protection of water supplies and assure that recommended standards regarding such supplies are being maintained.
• Investigate a broad spectrum of environmental complaints and health-related nuisances, provide recommendations, and ensure enforcement procedures are implemented to abate applicable situations.
• Serve as a primary contact and consultant for well drillers, on-site wastewater installers, homeowners, contractors, realtors, and other members of the public on wells, on-site wastewater systems, and related issues.
• Design wastewater disposal systems that comply with applicable rules and laws, issue necessary permits, conduct final inspections and authorize the use of the system.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Quality Assurance and Chart Audits

• Maintain accurate and complete quality assurance records in accordance with North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NC DHHS).

Regulatory Compliance & Accreditation

• Ensure compliance with applicable environmental health regulations, policies, and standards.
• Maintain required records and documentations for site evaluations, inspections, permits, quality assurance requirements, and accreditation.

Quality Improvement (QI) and Staff Training

• Support quality improvement initiatives and program evaluations.
• Train and mentor interns on policies, procedures, regulations, and inspection practices.
• Stay current with regulations and procedures to promote consistent, accurate, and effective work practices.

Additional Functions:

• Investigate septic complaints and system failures.
• Conduct inspections and follow-up visits.
• Review repair and development plans.
• Educate homeowners and contractors on septic regulations.
• Maintain permits, reports, and records.
• Assist with enforcement of wastewater regulations and well regulations.
• Coordinate with county and state agencies.
• Perform other environmental health duties as assigned.

Knowledges, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of environmental health laws, rules, and procedures, as well as a complete understanding of the concepts of public health law.
• Knowledge of the design of on-site wastewater treatment systems, protection of water supplies, and well construction.
• Knowledge of inspection methods and investigation techniques as applied in environmental health.
• Knowledge of the responsibilities of other agencies involved in environmental health work.
• Ability to accurately interpret and enforce state and local laws, rules, and ordinances.
• Ability to understand and use engineering, technical, and specialized information.
• Ability to analyze and comprehend a variety of technical and administrative regulations, records, and reports.
• Ability to effectively communicate potential concerns and corrective measures to business and property owners and the consuming public in matters related to protecting and promoting public health.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and deal tactfully with a wide range of the public while communicating potential concerns and corrective measures and enforcing public health laws and rules.

Consequence of Error:

• Errors in evaluating soil, setbacks, or system design could result in a system that does not properly treat wastewater. A malfunctioning system can discharge wastewater to the environment and create a public health hazard. Decisions can have financial consequences for property owners, businesses, contractors, and developers. Incorrect decisions can lead to complaints, appeals, liability issues, or court action.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements:

• Primarily a field-based role with a combination of outdoor inspections and office work. Duties may include evaluating soil and site conditions, inspecting septic systems, conducting property visits and interacting with homeowners and contractors.
• The position requires working in various weather conditions and on uneven or undeveloped terrain. Some physical activity, driving between sites, and exposure to wastewater-related conditions may be required. Office responsibilities include reviewing applications, preparing permits and reports, maintaining records, and communicating with the public.
• Lifting is considered medium work requiring exertion of up to 50 of force occasionally and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Position includes bending, reaching, squatting, manual dexterity, repetitive motion, and the ability to distinguish colors. Visual acuity is required, must have eyesight that allows distinction between an array of colors. This position involves significant standing, walking, and sitting for extended periods of time. The work is performed in an environment with situations that require major decisions involving people, resources, and property. Must be able to auger a minimum of four feet and remove the auger and its contents for evaluation.

Minimum Requirements (Education & Experience)

Minimum Required Qualifications:

• Graduated with a bachelor's degree or postgraduate degree from a program accredited by the National Environmental Health Science and Protection Accreditation Council or graduated with a bachelor's degree or postgraduate degree and earned a minimum of 30 semester hours or 45 quarter hours in the physical, biological, natural, life, or health sciences; or bachelor's degree in public health, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Per NC Local Health Department Accreditation requirements, employees in this role must present their diploma, degree, or transcript to their supervisor/department upon hire.
• Additional Training and Experience: Most work-related skills will be developed through in-service and on-the-job training. Educational requirements in accordance with Chapter 90A must be obtained each calendar year to renew registration to maintain Registered Environmental Health Specialist status.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Health, Biology, or a related field.
• Experience in performing soil/site evaluations and familiarity with septic system design and permitting.
• Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to conduct evaluations and inspections independently and prepare accurate reports.

Licensure/Certification/Other Requirements:

• Registration is required by the N.C. State Board of Environmental Health Specialist Examiners under the provisions of Chapter 90A of the General Statues of North Carolina. Required to attend and pass the centralized training provided by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. Additionally, must be able to pass state authorization evaluations and test for specific program areas in order to perform duties. Also, must pass the REHS exam and NEHA within the timeframe established by the Board.

INSURANCE PROGRAMS

Nash County offers cafeteria-style benefits including:

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Supplemental Health Benefits (Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity Insurances)
• Disability Insurance (Long-Term and Short-Term Disability)

and more!

FINANCIAL PROGRAMS

Retirement

Membership in the North Carolina Local Government Employees Retirement System is a requirement for all regular full-time and regular part-time employees. Employees contribute 6% of their annual compensation before it is taxed. If you leave County service before retirement, you may withdraw your retirement contributions or elect to freeze your contributions in anticipation of future local government employment. If you have 5 years of service, you are 100% vested in the NCLGERS.

NC401(k)

The NC401(k) supplemental retirement program is available to regular full-time and regular part-time employees. The County establishes this 401(k) account for each eligible employee and makes a 5% contribution based on monthly earnings. Employees may elect to make voluntary contributions through payroll deduction.

457 Deferred Compensation

The 457 Deferred Compensation program is available to regular full-time and regular part-time employees through payroll deduction. Deferred compensation is a voluntary investment plan to supplement retirement income and to defer taxable income.

Special Separation Allowance

The Separation Allowance is available to law enforcement officers between the ages of 55 and 62 years that are eligible and retire under the provisions of the NC Local Government Employees Retirement System.

125 Flexible Benefit Plan

Flexible Spending Account options are available to regular full-time and regular part-time employees who wish to use pre-tax dollars for eligible medical, pharmacy, dental, vision, and daycare expenses. The Flex Convenience Card program gives you instant access to your account funds.

• Health Care Spending Account -- Section 125 of the IRS Code allows yearly voluntary enrollment to set aside pre-tax dollars for eligible health care expenses.
• Dependent Care Spending Account -- Section 125 of the IRS Code allows yearly voluntary enrollment to set aside pre-tax dollars for eligible dependent care expenses.

Direct Deposit

Direct Deposit is a condition of employment for all employees. Deposit of your paycheck will be made to checking or savings accounts in a bank of your choice.

LEAVE PROGRAMS

Vacation Leave

For regular full-time County employees, vacation leave accrues based on length of service in the NC Local Government Employees Retirement System. Regular part-time employees accrue prorated vacation leave based on a percentage of the full-time benefit.

Sick Leave

For regular full-time County employees, sick leave accrues each pay-cycle. Regular part-time employees accrue prorated sick leave based on a percentage of the full-time benefit. Your unused sick leave balance can be applied as creditable service toward a service retirement under the guidelines of the NCLGERS.

Holidays

The policy of the County is to follow the holiday schedule as published by the State of North Carolina each year.

The following holidays are observed:

• New Year's Day,
• Martin Luther King, Jr. Day,
• Good Friday,
• Memorial Day,
• Independence Day,
• Labor Day,
• Veteran's Day,
• Thanksgiving Day and the day after, and
• Three (3) days at Christmas.

Military Leave

Annual Training - Reserves and National Guard -Ten paid workdays per fiscal year.

Active Duty - Reserves and National Guard - Ten paid workdays upon activation.

Civil Leave

Paid leave is provided to full-time or regular part-time County employees called for jury duty or as a witness of the court for the federal or state government, or a subdivision thereof.

Family Medical Leave Act

Federal law provides job protection and continuation of existing paid health insurance during 12 weeks of leave, paid or unpaid, to an eligible employee for qualifying events. These events can include birth or adoption, and serious illness of an immediate family member, or of the employee.

OTHER PROGRAMS

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

The Employee Assistance Program is open to all employees and their dependents. It is a confidential service provided at no cost to the employees of the County. EAP provides certified counselors who administer assessment and brief therapy to employees who want help with a variety of personal and work-related issues such as stress, parenting concerns, grief, alcohol/drug use, family problems, financial concerns, and work-related problems.

Wellness Center and Telemedicine

We believe that staying healthy is inclusive of exercising regularly and taking care of your physical body. Nash County has a Wellness Center, which consists of various exercise equipment and videos, open to all full and part-time employees.

All full-time employees also have access to telemedicine through Teladoc. Teladoc treats conditions like allergies, sore throats, asthma, and more. Doctors are available by phone or video 24/7 from wherever you are. They are available to diagnose symptoms and send a prescription if needed.

NOTICE OF PRIVACY PRACTICES

The benefits offered by Nash County are subject to change. In the event there is a conflict between the above contents and Nash County policies and/or a State or Federal statute, the policy/statute shall control. Plan documents will govern benefits plans should there be a conflict with this information. They are not held out to any employee as part of any contractual agreement. Benefits, policies, and procedures are subject to change or termination at any time.

Information provided on this site is for informational purposes only. Actual provisions of each plan will be provided on the certificate of coverage as part of the Summary Plan description.

Nash County is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Provider

In accordance with Federal civil rights law and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs).

Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDAs Target Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339.

Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English. To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint filing cust.html and any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form.

To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:

1. mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture

Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights

1400 Independence Avenue, SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-9410;

2. fax: (202) 690-7442; or

3. email: program.intake@usda.gov

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

01

Which best describes your level of education?

• No GED and no High School Diploma
• GED or High School Diploma
• Some college
• Associates Degree
• Bachelors Degree
• Masters Degree
• Doctorates Degree

02

Have you graduated with a bachelor's degree or postgraduate degree from a program accredited by the National Environmental Health Science and Protection Accreditation Council?

• Yes
• No

03

Have you earned a minimum of 30 semester hours or 45 quarter hours in the physical, biological, natural, life, or health sciences?

• Yes
• No

04

Are you currently a registered Environmental Health Specialist?

• Yes
• No

05

How many years of experience do you have in Environmental Health?

• No experience or less than one year.
• 1 Year
• 2 Years
• 3 Years
• 4 Years
• 5 or more years

06

How many years of experience do you have in performing soil/site evaluations?

• No experience
• Less than a year
• 1 year
• 2 years
• 3 years
• 4 years
• 5 or more years

07

Do you have experience working with septic system design and permitting?

• Yes
• No

Required Question

Employer Nash County

Address 120 W. Washington Street

Nashville, North Carolina, 27856

Phone 252-459-9853

Website http://www.nashcountync.gov