Environmental Hygiene Officer

Description of Position
The position of University Sanitarian / Environmental Hygiene Officer is involved in the design, construction, alteration, demolition, repair, and inspection of all food service facilities covered by the Minnesota Food Code on all University properties system wide. Specifically this position administers the rules and regulations, and enforces the laws adopted by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) related to food safety, public health, and the public welfare. This position has the responsibility for performing inspections and evaluations of building systems, wells, some plumbing system components, kitchen ventilation systems, food equipment standards and installations, maintenance, and operations for all new and existing buildings where food handling occurs in accordance with the Minnesota Food Code. This position works as a consultant to other University departments for questions or concerns involving design and operation of food service establishments and other public health issues (e.g. pest control, drinking water, student housing) on all campuses. The position also serves as the technical code advisor and professional resource to the University construction community, architects, engineers, and owners' representatives. The Sanitarian position independently performs public health, food and special event related inspections for all University locations.

Responsibilities / Essential Functions

Inspection of all permitted, maintenance, repair, renovation, remodel and construction work on all University of Minnesota properties system-wide 65%

* Inspect and test systems to verify that such systems are installed in accordance with appropriate laws, codes, ordinances, regulations, and standards.
* Conduct compliance follow-ups to ensure that corrective actions have been taken in cases where violations were found.
* Utilize computer system to record and update field inspections.
* Write detailed reports of inspections performed, violations observed, and corrective recommendations offered.
* Follow-up on inspections to gain compliance.
* Participate in on-the-job training to learn to independently perform inspection duties.

Review plans and scopes of work prior to permit/license issuance to verify compliance with all codes and standards 20%

* Examine construction documents at different phases of design: schematic, design development and construction documents.
* Review technical documents to ensure code and safety compliance.
* Calculate fees to be assessed for projects and submit documentation for collection.

Consult, advise, discuss, and meet with designers, engineers, project managers, facilities managers and stakeholders regarding code requirements 15%

* Provide technical code assistance to University stakeholders, designers, industry professionals and project managers.
* Keep informed of code changes and of new legislation pertaining to assigned work
* Research new materials and methods of construction.
* Participate in professional development training.
* Attend training classes in order to maintain current knowledge of public health and safety procedures.
* Maintain and update as necessary University policies related to environmental health, sanitation and food.

Problem Solving and Independence of Action

Problems regularly encountered are highly varied and unpredictable, complex and often non-recurring, requiring new and creative approaches. Sanitarian sets goals with the Assistant Building Official and Sanitarian and accomplishes results with guidelines to follow. Supervisor provides broad guidance and overall direction.

Physical/Environmental Demands

Work is generally performed in the field and will include site visits to outdoor areas, roofs, mechanical rooms, controlled access areas, tunnels and confined spaces. Physical ability to climb ladders, enter tunnels and access all construction sites is required. This position may involve field inspections which may require a variety of physical activities, safe vehicle operation, tools, and equipment. May work near or be exposed to a variety of hazardous conditions or equipment. May occasionally work in closed or small areas to conduct inspection, be exposed to weather conditions, animals, sewage, fires, dust, gas, fumes, noise, asbestos, mold or other environmental conditions. Agility, strength, balance and familiarity with many and varied construction worksite conditions, tools and machinery is required.

Classification #: 8424IS
Status: Exempt

Pay Range: $48.08- $56.25, depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 75%-100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).