Environmental Specialist Level I​/II *Revised

Overview

The Position

This is a continuous filing exam. Next filing cut-offs are at 5:00 pm on: 5/20/2026, 6/3/2026, 6/17/2026, 7/1/2026 (final).

Environmental Specialists apply scientific theory and methods to identify, research, and resolve environmental issues in the areas of regulatory compliance, public health, environmental health and pollution prevention.

Environmental Specialist is a single class with two levels:
Environmental Specialist (Level II) and Environmental Specialist (Level I). The level at which initial appointments are made and when advancements occur are at the discretion of the appointing authority. Incumbents may advance from Level I to Level II, if they have: (1) met the minimum and special qualifications, and (2) have demonstrated the ability to perform the responsibilities required at the higher performance level.

The County of Sacramento’s Environmental Management Department consists of two divisions, Environmental Protection and Environmental Health. Candidates on the eligible list may be considered to fill vacancies in either division.

• Principles of environmental compliance assurance
• Principles of environmental sciences
• Mathematical compilation and analysis
• Principles of chemistry and chemical reactions
• Effects of waste material on water quality and land quality and the interactions of waste with the environment
• Environmental practices with special reference to their general effect on public health and the quality of the environment
• Laws, codes, regulations, and policies affecting the department’s operations and programs
• Applicable tools, equipment and materials
• Principles and procedures of interviewing and fact-finding
• Principles, practices and techniques of customer service

• Read English at a level necessary to examine, interpret, and apply scientific, legal, technical, and complex guidelines, documents, records and reports
• Speak English at a level necessary to communicate clearly and effectively
• Write English at a level necessary to produce concise, accurate and impartial reports, narratives, summaries and recommendations
• Communicate, verbally and in writing, scientific and technical terminology into terms understandable to the general public
• Locate, research, interpret, and apply environmental laws and regulations
• Work independently within established guidelines, prioritize and coordinate activities, and meet critical deadlines
• Perform work assignments related to environmental inspections, compliance, monitoring, regulation, and research
• Work cooperatively with others; build and maintain constructive relationships with those encountered during course of work; respond effectively and tactfully to hostility, confusion or concerns expressed by others
• Collect, process, evaluate, and summarize scientific and technical data and ideas to make effective decisions and develop appropriate solutions
• Develop, prepare, and present studies and reports to governmental boards, civic organizations and other groups
• Effectively represent the department in contacts and relationships with the public, local business community and other government agencies
• Use sound judgment and personal initiative to accomplish assignments
• Use appropriate interpersonal style and approach to ensure team cohesiveness and cooperation

Environmental Specialist (Level I)
Either:
1) Graduation from an accredited college or university with major in health science, public health, natural science, physical science, environmental science, or a related field; or
2) Written proof of acceptance of education required by the State of California Environmental Health Services. Incumbents assigned to positions requiring State Certification must achieve certification/registration within the period prescribed by State Law or be subject to dismissal under applicable Civil Service Rules.

Note:

Applicants interested in Environmental Health positions are required to provide the acceptance letter mentioned above.

Environmental Specialist (Level II)
Either:
1) Graduation from an accredited college or university with major in health science, public health, natural science, physical science, environmental science, or a related field, plus one year of professional experience in environmental regulation, analysis, or environmental research performing duties equivalent to the Level I class; or
2) Possession of valid certification as Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS) by the State of California; or
3) Possession of valid certification as Registered Dairy Inspector by the State of California; or
4) Possession of a Master’s Degree in a related field.

Note:

REHS documentation is required for Environmental Health positions. Up to one year of education may be substituted by related experience. If the minimum qualifications include an educational or certificate/license requirement, applicants must submit proof with the application. Unofficial transcripts are…