Part Time Town Health Officer

The Town of Hartford, VT has an immediate opening for a Town Health Officer (THO), the person our community turns to when public health hazards occur. Vermont law gives the THO authority to investigate problems, act in a public health emergency, and enforce health regulations, working alongside the Select board and the State.

Town Health Officer (appointed)

Three years

$10,000 per year, fixed (not tied to hours worked)

On call, as needed; typically around 15 hours per week

Immediately

Every Vermont town has a local board of health made up of the Select board and the Town Health Officer. The THO investigates complaints about potential public health hazards and takes emergency steps to reduce risk. When a hazard can’t be resolved voluntarily, the THO works with the Select board on enforcement.

• Respond to environmental public health complaints
  , including animal bites and rabies, air quality, drinking water, wastewater and septic systems, recreational water, solid and hazardous waste, and pests (insects, rodents).
• Investigate public health hazards and risks in town, and act to prevent, remove, or reduce them.
• Issue and manage formal Health Orders as needed.
• Enforce health laws, rules, and permit conditions
  , including follow-through on orders.
• Support infectious disease reporting
  , investigation, and response.
• Share vector surveillance information and evidence-based prevention measures with the community.
• Stay current on emergency preparedness by attending Hartford meetings and the Public Health Council of the Upper Valley.

Note: Hartford’s Fire Marshals handle health-related complaints in public buildings, including rental units. Hartford’s Community Service Officer handles domestic animal complaints and serves as the Deputy Health Officer.

Experience in health or human services is ideal. The State of Vermont provides training for Health Officers.