Environmental Health Sanitarian
Closing Date: February 28, 2026
Protecting Public Health Through Food Safety
The Western Upper Peninsula Health Department (WUPHD) is seeking a motivated full-time Environmental Health Sanitarian (37.5 hours/week) to join our team in Hancock, Michigan. This is a unique opportunity to combine science, service, and community engagement while safeguarding food safety across food service establishments in our five-county region.
The Role
As part of our Food Protection Program, you will:
- Conduct inspections of restaurants and food service operations to ensure compliance with Michigan food safety standards.
- Partner with business owners, managers, and staff to promote best practices in food handling and facility design.
- Play a vital role in preventing foodborne illness and protecting the health of residents and visitors.
- Directly impact the well-being of thousands of people, making dining experiences safer and healthier across the Western Upper Peninsula.
Beyond Food Safety
Your work will extend to broader environmental health initiatives that protect the community and promote wellness. These responsibilities include:
- Inspecting facilities such as pools, child/adult care centers, tattoo/body art establishments, and campgrounds to ensure compliance with public health codes.
- Investigating outbreaks of foodborne, waterborne, or environmentally related illnesses.
- Reviewing plans, issuing permits, and enforcing environmental health regulations.
- Managing wastewater treatment, on-site sewage disposal systems, and residential/commercial water supplies.
- Responding to environmental health emergencies and educating the public on risks and safe practices.
- Addressing complaints and conducting investigations to resolve public health concerns.
Together, these responsibilities safeguard public health by ensuring communities have safe food, clean water, and proper wastewater disposal through the assessment, control, and prevention of environmental risks.
Qualifications
We’re looking for candidates who bring both expertise and enthusiasm:
- Bachelor of Science degree (minimum 4 years) in Environmental Health, Environmental Engineering, or a closely related field.
- NEHA REHS or Michigan RS credential preferred; eligibility to apply and obtain RS credentialing within two years required.
- Knowledge of food safety regulations, restaurant operations, and facility plan review/design strongly preferred.
- Strong communication skills and a genuine passion for public health.
Benefits & Compensation
At WUPHD, we value our employees and offer a comprehensive package:
- Health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- Retirement plans
- Paid vacation, sick leave, personal days, and holidays
- Competitive salary:
-
- $22.96 – $25.41/hour (Sanitarian-in-Training)
- $25.14 – $32.08/hour (Registered Sanitarian/REHS)
- Membership in the AFSCME collective bargaining unit
Why Join Us?
This is more than a career—it’s a calling. As a Sanitarian, you’ll be part of a team dedicated to protecting public health, supporting local businesses, and making a lasting impact on the community. Every inspection, every conversation, and every recommendation you make contributes to a healthier, safer future.
Submit your resume and cover letter to HR@wuphd.org
Equal Opportunity Employer (E.O.E.)
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