An environmental health technician is a public health professional who collaborates with scientists, engineers, architects, business owners, government agencies, and the general public to identify, inspect, and investigate environmental issues that may have an impact on local residents’ health. She may also enforce environmental health regulations and rules, as well as collaborate with others to resolve the issue. A national, regional, or local government agency, as well as a private or public laboratory, are the most common employers of environmental health technicians. Although specific responsibilities vary depending on the needs of the employer, some general responsibilities include collecting samples of animal waste, soil, or water, documenting data, investigating complaints, and keeping accurate records.
An environmental health technician’s responsibilities vary depending on the employer and the specific field of work. She may, for example, collect waste samples to inspect and investigate whether an area has an abundance of rodents, mosquitoes, roaches, snakes, feral cats, or other animals. She can then analyze the data gathered through the samples and on-site observations and make correction recommendations based on her findings. After a routine inspection of an area, she may discover the infestation. Other times, she may be investigating a citizen complaint.
An environmental health technician may also be in charge of inspecting, evaluating, and resolving health issues that arise as a result of violations at licensed public establishments. Most licensed establishments, for example, are required to adhere to regional or national environmental health regulations and rules. Swimming pools, motels, food retail stores, pet stores, and trailer parks are among these businesses. For example, she might be in charge of inspecting swimming pool pumps and ensuring that the proper chemicals have been added to the pool system to ensure public safety.
An environmental health technician’s other responsibilities may include responding to public complaints about sewage, solid waste, and hazardous materials. She may supervise waste cleanup or work at collection events to ensure that the materials are properly handled. She could also work to educate the public about different environmental health programs.
In most cases, a bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, environmental health, or a related field is required to work as an environmental health technician. People with only a high school diploma or its equivalent may be able to get entry-level jobs on occasion. In general, the technician may be asked to comprehend the significance of pest control, as well as the breeding habits and life cycles of various insects, rodents, and animals. She may also be required to comprehend and apply laws governing public health, pesticides, and other practices.