Research Scientist 2 - Health Assessor

Job Details Working Title: Health Assessor Job Class: Research Scientist 2 Agency: Health Department * Job ID: 81438 * Location: St. Paul * Telework Eligible: Yes * Full/Part Time: Full-Time * Regular/Temporary: Unlimited * Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers- bidders will be considered until 11/19/2024. * Date Posted: 11/13/2024 * Closing Date: 12/04/2024 * Hiring Agency: Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) * Division/Unit: Environmental Health (EH) - Site Assessment and Consultation Unit * Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift, 8:00am- 4:30pm * Days of Work: Monday - Friday * Travel Required: Yes, up to 25% of the time * Salary Range: $31.92 - $47.05 / hourly; $66,648 - $98,240 / annually * Job Class Option: Environmental Health * Classified Status: Classified * Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Association of Professional Employees ( MAPE) * FLSA Status: Exempt - Professional * 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 Join our dynamic team at the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), where your passion for public health can make a tangible impact on the well-being of all Minnesotans. Our Environmental Health Division is seeking a Human Health Assessor to help protect Minnesotans from environmental hazards at contaminated sites. This position will perform health assessment activities at federal and state Superfund sites, as well as Minnesota landfills, dumps, and "brownfield" sites undergoing redevelopment. Primary Responsibilities Include: * Identifies, assesses, and communicates human health risks linked with these contaminated sites. * Recognizes and evaluates exposure to chemicals from hazardous waste sites and other health risks. * Collaborate with a team to evaluate site hazards and develop strategies for communicating health risks to the public regarding these sites. * Work together with other state agencies and programs to ensure that regulatory actions prioritize health protection. 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 Three (3) years analytical research experience in the of environmental health science field. This experience must encompass technical knowledge, skills, and abilities in at least two of the following areas: * Biological sciences * Environmental public health * Hydrogeology * Toxicology * Environmental chemistry Additional minimum qualifications to be assessed during the interview: * In-depth knowledge of scientific methods, including analysis of environmental data, with successful integration of chemical, physical, and mathematical principles. * Proficient in organizing and writing complex technical reports and research papers, with strong technical knowledge and skills in exposure assessment and environmental science. * Capable of understanding and effectively applying the principles and theory of risk communication in all personal interactions, especially when engaging with the public. A Bachelor's degree in biological, chemical, mathematical, statistical and/or physical sciences or equivalent may substitute for 12 months of experience. A Master's Degree in biological, chemical, mathematical, statistical and/or physical sciences or equivalent may substitute for 18 months of experience. A PhD in biological, chemical, mathematical, statistical and/or physical sciences or equivalent may substitute for 24 months of experience . Preferred Qualifications * A bachelor's degree in biological, chemical, mathematical, statistical, or physical sciences, or equivalent training and experience in environmental health, environmental chemistry, environmental toxicology, geology, or a related field that provides environmental health research experience. * Professional experience performing risk communication, planning, and analysis work in public environmental health programs or a related field. * Familiarity with state and local public environmental health programs to effectively engage with and assess the relationships between local and state initiatives. * Understanding of the principles and techniques of exposure assessment and health risk assessment. * Experience using ArcView/GIS Additional Requirements This position requires successful completion of a background check and employment reference check. This employment does not require a valid driver's license, but it does demand 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 http://www.mn.gov/careers . 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.