Job Description
The City of Berkeley is hiring a Registered Environmental Health Specialist to protect public health through inspections, enforcement, and community collaboration.
In this role, you will inspect private and public properties for compliance with environmental health and safety regulations, interpret sanitary codes, and investigate complaints regarding health violations. You will work independently to plan inspections, prepare detailed reports and presentations, and issue recommendations or citations as needed.
Collaboration with city and agency partners is expected, and you may also provide training or project direction to new staff.
Berkeley is one of only three California cities with an independent local health jurisdiction, offering a unique opportunity to work within the Health, Housing, and Community Services Department's Environmental Health Division.
This division administers programs in Food Safety, Vector Control, Noise Control, Tobacco Licensing, Cannabis, Recreational Health, Water Quality, and Body Art. This position is ideal for a certified environmental health professional seeking a challenging, autonomous role in a progressive city.
Salary & Compensation
Salary: $111,665 - $129,411 per year.
Qualification
Candidates must possess a valid California Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS) certificate. The typical qualifying experience includes a bachelor's degree in environmental health or a related field, plus relevant work experience.
- Valid California Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS) certificate required.
- Bachelor's degree in environmental health, public health, or a closely related field.
- One year of professional experience in environmental health inspection or enforcement.
- Knowledge of California environmental health laws, regulations, and inspection procedures.
- Ability to interpret and apply sanitary regulations and codes.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for report writing and presentations.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple inspections and investigations.
- Valid California driver's license and acceptable driving record (may be required for field work).
Duties & Responsibilities
- Conduct inspections of private and public properties for compliance with environmental health regulations.
- Interpret and enforce sanitary regulations, codes, and ordinances.
- Investigate complaints regarding potential health regulation violations.
- Plan and schedule inspections independently.
- Prepare detailed reports and presentations of inspection findings.
- Issue recommendations, notices of violation, or citations as appropriate.
- Collaborate with city departments, agency partners, and community stakeholders.
- Provide instruction, training, or project direction to new staff members.
- Administer programs in Food Safety, Vector Control, Noise Control, Tobacco Licensing, Cannabis, Recreational Health, Water Quality, and Body Art.
- Respond to public inquiries and provide education on health regulations.
Conditions & Requirements
- Possession of a valid California Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS) certificate at time of application.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a valid California driver's license (if required for field work).
- Satisfactory background check and reference verification.
- Ability to work in various environmental conditions (e.g., food establishments, outdoor sites).
- May require physical ability to conduct inspections (walking, climbing, lifting up to 25 lbs).
Benefits
- Competitive salary range of $111,665 - $129,411 per year.
- Complete benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- CalPERS retirement plan (defined benefit).
- Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
- Professional development and training opportunities.
- Employee assistance program.
- Flexible spending accounts for health and dependent care.
How You Will Be Evaluated
- Application review: candidates must submit a completed online application and supplemental questionnaire.
- Minimum qualifications screening: REHS certificate and education/experience requirements verified.
- Written exam or practical assessment (if applicable) to evaluate technical knowledge.
- Oral interview panel to assess communication, problem-solving, and regulatory knowledge.
- Reference checks and background investigation.
- Conditional job offer contingent on successful completion of pre-employment screening.
Required Documents
- Completed online application via the official application portal.
- Supplemental questionnaire responses (included in the application).
- Copy of valid California Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS) certificate.
- College transcripts (if using education to meet qualifications).
- Resume (optional but recommended).
How to Apply
- To apply, visit the City of Berkeley's career portal on the official application portal. Create an account or to your existing account. Complete the online application form and answer all supplemental questions. Attach required documents, including your REHS certificate and transcripts if applicable. Review your application for accuracy and submit before the deadline of August 17, 2026. Incomplete applications may n…
Additional Information
- This position is full-time and located at 2180 Milvia Street (1st floor), Berkeley, CA 94704.
- The City of Berkeley is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
- Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
- Veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
- For questions about the position, contact the City of Berkeley Human Resources Department.
- The selection process may include a written exam and oral interview.
- Candidates who pass the initial screening will be notified of next steps via email.
About Company
The City of Berkeley is a progressive, diverse city in the San Francisco Bay Area, known for its commitment to environmental sustainability and social equity. The Health, Housing, and Community Services Department works to protect and improve the well-being of all residents.
The Environmental Health Division is one of only three independent local health jurisdictions in California, giving staff unique authority and responsibility. This role offers the chance to make a tangible impact on community health while working in a collaborative, public service environment.
City of Berkeley is named as the hiring organisation for the Registered Environmental Health Specialist post.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to common applicant questions about this position, eligibility and the application process.