Environmental Health Specialist

Position: Environmental Health Specialist I
This job posting expires at 11:59PM on October 01, 2026. No applications can be submitted after 11:59PM on October 01, 2026.

Job Title:

Environmental Health Specialist IDepartment:
Health - Community Protection and Preparedness External Hiring Range: $27.58 - $33.18

Compensation Grade: 2008

Posted Internally and Externally Buncombe County offers in-office, hybrid, and remote positions. Employees in positions that are approved for remote work must work at a location within a 2-hour drive from the position's assigned Buncombe County facility.

Buncombe County is hiring for an Environmental Health Specialist I under our Onsite Wastewater program that is available for you to fill just in time for the fall leaf season! The selected candidate will join an amazing and dedicated team of 9 REHS’s. This position requires the applicant to have graduated with a Bachelor’s degree or postgraduate degree in Environmental Health 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.

Buncombe County Government offers a comprehensive benefits package. From day one, you'll contribute to the NC Local Government Retirement System, access the Employee Assistance Program, receive two days of PTO, and begin accruing sick and annual leave. Medical, dental, and vision coverage start the first day of the following month. After six months, you'll be eligible for additional benefits including supplemental life insurance, short-term disability, and 401(k) enrollment.

Full benefit details are provided during New Employee Orientation.

Purpose of the position:

The purpose of this position is to conduct state-mandated inspections of facilities under the jurisdiction of Buncombe County Health and Human Services (BCHHS) Environmental Health division to ensure compliance with public health laws and rules.

Minimum Education , Training and/or Experience (required at time of hire):
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.

License or Certification Required by Statute or Regulation:
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.

Physical Requirements:

Lifting is considered medium work requiring exertion of up to 50 of force occasionally…