Public Health Sanitarian Intern

locations

Pontiac, Michigan, United States

Part time

job requisition id

JR-0000076

Overview & Benefits

Oakland County is more than just a workplace. It is a place where you can make a real difference. As one of Michigan’s leading public service organizations, we are committed to strengthening communities, delivering essential services, and improving the quality of life for nearly 1.3 million residents.

When you join our team, you become part of a mission-driven workforce guided by integrity, innovation, and a passion for public service. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to do meaningful work that matters. Apply today and help shape the future of Oakland County, where we are All Ways Moving Forward.

For more information about Oakland County benefits and employee perks, please visit:

https://www.oakgov.com/government/human-resources/benefits/new-hire

General Summary

$18.61-$21.71/hr
Hybrid

This is a Summer Position - From May - August 2026

Oakland County Health Division is seeking a Public Health Sanitarian Intern to support environmental health and public health programs that protect the health and safety of our residents. This temporary seasonal internship offers hands-on, field-based experience working alongside Public Health Sanitarians.

If you’re studying Public Health, Environmental Health, Environmental Science, or closely related field and want to apply what you’re learning in real-world settings, this is an excellent opportunity to explore a career in environmental and regulatory public health.

What You’ll Learn & Do
Under close supervision, you will receive training, gain exposure, and assist with a wide variety of environmental health activities, including:
• Observing Public Health Sanitarians conduct on-site inspections throughout Oakland County
• Observing inspections of:
• Food service establishments
• Body art facilities and day-care centers
• Onsite sewage disposal systems and drinking water wells
• Conducting inspection of public swimming pools, beaches, and recreational waters
• Collecting recreational water samples for laboratory analysis
• Entering beach waters wearing waterproof waders, as needed, to obtain samples
• Recording inspection findings and public health code violations following established guidelines 
• Receiving and documenting public health complaints from staff, business owners, and residents via phone, email, and in person
• Observing trapping and identifying of mosquito vectors
• Utilizing Countywide and department-specific software systems to document activities and complete assignments
• Completing independent study and an assigned academic project


Why You’ll Love This Internship
• Hands-On Field Experience: Go beyond the classroom and participate in real inspections and investigations
• Career Exploration: Learn what environmental health and sanitarian careers look like day-to-day
• Mentorship: Work directly with experienced Public Health Sanitarians 
• Public Service Impact: Help protect food safety, water quality, and environmental health for county residents
• Resume-Builder: Gain practical experience that aligns with Registered Sanitarian / Environmental Health Specialist career paths

Minimum Qualifications

EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

A.           REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

1.            Must be currently enrolled in an accredited college or university majoring in Public Health, Sanitary Science, or Environmental Health or closely related area.

2. Possess a valid motor vehicle operator’s or chauffeur’s license. 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Assists Public Health Sanitarians and Public Health Sanitarian Technicians with inspections of sites around the County, collecting samples to be tested and recording violations of public health code. Inspection sites include places of lodging, day-care centers, mobile home parks, sewage treatment facilities and pigeon lofts for proper sanitation and disposal of waste matter.

Receives and records public health complaints from Health Division clerical staff, business owners and residents via telephone, e-mail and in person, referring difficult or complex problems such as food-borne disease to higher level personnel.

Obtains water samples from public swimming pools and beaches utilizing collection poles and may be required to enter the water wearing waterproof waders to obtain samples. Transports water samples in collection bottles contained within a cooler for laboratory analysis.

Assists with inspections of food service and food processing establishments to ensure proper sanitation and storage practices. Inspects refrigeration units for proper temperature, drain systems, food preparation tools and supply storage units.

Collects samples of drinking water for laboratory analysis.

Utilizes current Countywide and/or department specific software to complete assignments.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Assists higher level personnel in investigating the outbreak of food‑borne disease, collecting specimens and food samples for laboratory analysis.

May assist with environmental health surveys involving recreational waters, sewage, rodents and residential garbage and rubbish storage.

ESSENTIAL MENTAL & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to communicate to accurately convey information.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Works is performed outdoors with exposure to weather conditions.

May participate in activities that require driving or being a passenger in an automobile.

IMPORTANT NOTE:  The primary purpose of this job description is to set a fair and equitable salary range for this job classification.  Generally, only those key duties necessary for proper job evaluation and/or labor market analysis have been included. Other duties and responsibilities will be assigned by the supervisor.

Additional Minimum Qualifications

B.           SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Must submit to immunizations as required by the Department of Health & Human Services and submit to a tuberculin skin test or chest x‑ray, at County expense.

Must maintain a valid motor vehicle operator's or chauffeur’s license.

Union*

*If applicable

EEO Statement

We are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances.

Inclusion Statement

Oakland County is committed to welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, including those with prior convictions, as we believe in providing equal opportunities for all. We value the unique perspectives and experiences each individual brings to our team and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace. If you have the skills and qualifications for the position, we encourage you to apply. All candidates are evaluated based on their ability to meet the job requirements, legal obligations and thrive in our organization. All ways, MOVING FORWARD.