Job Description
Job Details Working Title: Drinking Water Protection Sanitarian Job Class: Public Health Sanitarian 1 or 2 Agency: Health Department - Job ID : 89626
- Location : Duluth
- Telework Eligible : Yes, hybrid
- Full/Part Time : Full-Time
- Regular/Temporary : Unlimited
- Who May Apply : Open to all qualified job seekers - bidders will be considered until 10/28/2025.
- Date Posted : 10/22/2025
- Closing Date : 11/05/2025
- Hiring Agency: Minnesota Department of Health (MDH)
- Division/Unit : Environmental Health/Drinking Water Protection
- Work Shift/Work Hours : Day Shift, 8:00am - 4:30pm
- Days of Work : Monday - Friday
- Travel Required : Yes, up to 50% of the time
- Salary Range:
- Public Health Sanitarian 1: $25.29- $36.71 / hourly; $52,806 - 76,650 / annually
- Public Health Sanitarian 2: $27.84 - $40.82 / hourly; $58,129 - $85,232 / annually
- Classified Status : Classified
- Bargaining Unit/Union : 214 - MN Association of Professional Employees
- FLSA Status : Nonexempt
- Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities : Yes
The work you'll do is more than just a job. At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
Job Summary The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) Environmental Health Division is seeking a Drinking Water Protection Sanitarian. In this role, you will administer and monitor state program activities for the Drinking Water Protection (DWP) Section within assigned regions. This position plays a key role in protecting public health by ensuring the safe use and consumption of water through the implementation and enforcement of the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) and related MDH regulations governing non-community public water systems (NCPWS). Occasional extended workdays may be required to accommodate long-distance travel and client schedules.
Primary Responsibilities: - Conduct inspections and sanitary surveys of noncommunity public water systems to ensure compliance with state and federal drinking water regulations.
- Collect and analyze water samples to monitor quality and determine compliance with Safe Drinking Water Act standards.
- Investigate waterborne illness incidents and contamination events to protect public health.
- Provide technical assistance and regulatory guidance to water system operators and partner agencies.
- Maintain accurate inspection, sampling, and enforcement records in the state database.
This vacancy is being posted at both the Public Health Sanitarian 1 and Public Health Sanitarian 2 levels. The level at which the position will be filled will be based on the successful candidate's qualifications.
This position will have the option of teleworking; however, it will be based on the business needs of the unit and is at supervisory discretion .
Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Public Health Sanitarian 1 Minimum Qualifications: - Possession of a registration as an Environmental Health Specialist / Registered Sanitarian (REHS/RS Certification) OR the ability to obtain within two years of hire.
Candidates may be hired on a provisional basis, without a current or renewable REHS/RS credential with evidence of:
A bachelor's degree OR a degree-in-progress in environmental health, sanitary science, sanitary engineering, chemistry, biology, or other related environmental health field which includes at least 30 semester or 45 quarter hour credits in the physical or biological sciences
Public Health Sanitarian 2 Minimum Qualifications: - Two (2) years of experience working as an environmental health specialist or sanitarian and the ability to obtain an REHS/RS certification within two years of hire.
OR
- Possession of a master's degree in environmental health, sanitary science, sanitary engineering, chemistry, biology, or other related environmental health field and eighteen (18) months of experience working as an environmental health specialist or sanitarian and the ability to obtain an REHS/RS certification within two years of hire.
Additional requirements to be assessed during the interview: - Ability to communicate clearly with owners, managers, and employees; interviewing in a variety of environments including while loud equipment is operating , in busy kitchens, an d while the employees are working; have written communications skills sufficient to document concise, accurate, and complete information and observations.
- Critical thinking skills sufficient to collect and analyze information, identify areas of focus, and make decisions based on evidence gathered.
- Interpersonal skills to develop and maintain effective working relationships, inform operators of violations and other pertinent findings, and participate in legal proceedings.
Preferred Qualifications - Possession of a current or renewable registration as an Environmental Health Specialist / Registered Sanitarian (REHS/RS Certification).
- Bachelor's or Master's Degree in environmental health, sanitary science, sanitary engineering, chemistry, biology, or other related environmental health field.
- Experience working in an environmental or public health program which includes the inspection of public water supplies and/or food, beverage, and lodging establishments.
- Thorough knowledge of federal and state statutes, rules, codes, and standards applicable to drinking water protection
- Experience gathering and interpreting data, information, and evidence through research, interviews, and observations.
- Valid drivers license to be able to travel to work sites.
Physical Requirements Ability to navigate on uneven terrain, slippery flooring, stairs, and ladders around operating equipment, and in dimly lit tight spaces.
Ability to move long distances in all weather conditions.
Ability to transport up to 40 pounds.
Additional Requirements This position requires the successful completion of a background check.
This position does not require a valid driver's license, but it demands travel, which the candidate will be responsible for meeting.
Application Details How to Apply Select "Apply for Job" at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us . For additional information about the application process, go to .
Contact If you have questions about this position, contact Alexis Isaacson at alexis.e.isaacson@state.mn.us or 651-539-2266 .
To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Alexis Isaacson at alexis.e.isaacson@state.mn.us .
If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation for an interview, you may contact the Department of Health ADA Coordinator at health.hr.ada@state.mn.us
About Health Department Come work for one of the best public health systems in the nation and you will contribute to our mission to protect, maintain and improve the health of all Minnesotans. We are working hard to achieve our vision for health equity in Minnesota, where all communities are thriving, and all people have what they need to be healthy. Our collaborative, mission-driven work environment is a major factor in promoting a high level of employee health awareness, employee longevity and job satisfaction.
Working together to improve the state we love. What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
- A sense of purpose in their work
- Connection with their coworkers and communities
- Opportunities for personal and professional growth
Benefits As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.
Your benefits may include: - Paid vacation and sick leave
- 12 paid holidays each year
- Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
- Fertility care, including IVF
- Diabetes care
- Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
- 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
- Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
- Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
- Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
- Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
- Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being
Support to help you reach your career goals: - Training, classes, and professional development
- Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov )
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support: - A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
- Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
- Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care
Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.
Job Tags
Hourly pay, Full time, Temporary work, Part time, Local area, Remote work, Long distance, Monday to Friday, Shift work, Day shift,