Public Health Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of global health challenges, the spotlight on public health engineers has never been more critical.

As public health issues evolve, the demand for skilled professionals who can design, implement, and maintain public health infrastructure grows with it.

But let’s dive deeper: What’s truly expected from a public health engineer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricacies of public health engineering,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a flexible public health engineer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Public Health Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Public Health Engineers are responsible for protecting and improving the health of communities and populations.

They use their specialized engineering knowledge to design and implement sanitation systems, water supply systems, and waste management systems that promote public health.

Here are the primary duties and responsibilities of a Public Health Engineer:

• Design, monitor, and manage public health engineering projects such as sewage systems, water treatment plants, and waste disposal systems
• Conduct risk assessments and create safety procedures for workers involved in public health engineering projects
• Perform environmental health assessments and recommend measures to improve the quality of the environment
• Collaborate with public health officials, architects, and other engineers to address public health issues
• Use computer-aided design (CAD) software for creating designs and plans
• Monitor and evaluate systems to ensure they meet local, state and federal regulations
• Research and implement new technologies to improve public health engineering practices
• Prepare reports and present findings to government officials, the public, or other interested parties

 

Public Health Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Public Health Engineer to join our team.

In this role, you will design and implement systems for improving public health, such as water supply and waste management systems.

Your responsibilities will include designing and planning public health systems, ensuring they meet safety regulations, and working with various stakeholders to implement these systems.

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of engineering principles and public health regulations, with excellent problem-solving skills.

 

Responsibilities

• Design and plan public health engineering systems such as water supply, waste management, and sanitation facilities
• Ensure all designs and plans meet safety and environmental regulations
• Work closely with various stakeholders including government officials, community leaders, and contractors
• Prepare and present reports on the progress and outcomes of projects
• Identify and mitigate potential public health risks
• Develop and implement maintenance procedures for public health systems
• Stay updated on the latest public health regulations and advancements in public health engineering

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Public Health Engineer or similar role
• Knowledge of public health regulations and engineering principles
• Strong problem-solving and project management skills
• Ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders
• BSc degree in Public Health Engineering, Civil Engineering or relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Public Health Engineer
• Work Environment: Office setting with field visits. Some travel may be required for project implementations and meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Public Health Engineering Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $90,000 minimum to $130,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Public Health Engineer Do?

Public Health Engineers play a crucial role in the health sector by designing and implementing systems that promote public health.

They work for both private companies and public health departments.

Their primary responsibility is to design and implement systems that improve sanitation, manage waste, and control diseases.

This includes designing sewage treatment plants, water purification systems, and waste disposal sites.

Public Health Engineers also work closely with other health professionals and public officials to develop health policies and regulations.

They play a critical role in disaster management and emergency planning.

These engineers often conduct field surveys to collect data, monitor public health trends, and assess the impact of their projects.

They may also be involved in public education campaigns to increase awareness about health issues and promote healthy behaviors.

Public Health Engineers are also responsible for ensuring compliance with health and safety standards and regulations.

They conduct routine inspections and assessments to identify potential health risks and ensure that appropriate safety measures are in place.

Furthermore, they may be involved in research activities aimed at developing new techniques and technologies to improve public health.

Their work often involves complex problem-solving, and they must be able to use their technical expertise to develop practical solutions to public health challenges.

 

Public Health Engineer Qualifications and Skills

Public Health Engineers play an important role in planning, designing, and implementing measures to improve public health.

The following are skills and qualifications required for this job role:

• Strong knowledge in the fields of engineering, biology, and chemistry to develop public health solutions.
• Proficiency in using computer-aided design (CAD) software to design and plan public health systems.
• Strong analytical skills to assess the needs of the community, understand the factors affecting public health, and develop suitable solutions.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills to identify and resolve issues related to public health engineering projects.
• Excellent communication skills to articulate complex public health engineering concepts to individuals from various disciplines and backgrounds.
• Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively with a diverse team, including other engineers, health professionals, and community leaders.
• Project management skills to plan, implement, and manage public health engineering projects within the specified budget and timeline.
• Awareness of public health laws, regulations, and standards to ensure compliance in all engineering projects.
• Ability to work under pressure and make decisions quickly during emergencies.

 

Public Health Engineer Experience Requirements

Entry-level Public Health Engineers are typically expected to have a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a related field, along with 1 to 2 years of experience.

This experience can be gained through internships, co-op programs, or entry-level roles in environmental health or sanitation engineering.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience have often worked in roles such as Environmental Health Specialist or Sanitation Engineer, gaining practical experience in public health, sanitation, waste management, and water supply systems.

Professionals with more than 5 years of experience usually hold a Master’s degree in Public Health or a related field.

They have developed their technical skills and knowledge in more advanced roles, such as Senior Public Health Engineer or Public Health Consultant.

Those with more than 7 years of experience may have leadership experience, having managed teams or projects, and are typically qualified for positions such as Public Health Engineering Manager or Director of Public Health Engineering.

In addition to technical skills, Public Health Engineers should have strong problem-solving skills, and experience in working with diverse communities and promoting public health education and awareness.

Depending on the specific role, certification or licensure may also be required.

 

Public Health Engineer Education and Training Requirements

Public Health Engineers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in Environmental or Civil Engineering, Public Health, or a related field.

To effectively operate in this role, knowledge of environmental health principles and engineering, biology, chemistry, and physics is crucial.

Many roles often require a master’s degree or a Doctorate in Public Health, Environmental Engineering or related fields.

Public Health Engineers must pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, followed by the Professional Engineering (PE) exam to become a licensed engineer.

The PE license can be specific to environmental engineering.

In addition to these academic and licensing requirements, Public Health Engineers may also consider obtaining certification from organizations such as the American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists or the National Environmental Health Association.

These credentials often indicate a Public Health Engineer’s proficiency, professionalism, and commitment to continued learning in this rapidly evolving field.

Continuing education and staying up to-date on the latest public health issues, engineering technologies, and regulations is also essential for success in this role.

 

Public Health Engineer Salary Expectations

A Public Health Engineer earns an average salary of $75,000 (USD) per year.

However, the salary may differ based on factors such as the individual’s level of experience, educational background, and the location of the job.

The type and size of the employing organization can also significantly influence the salary.

 

Public Health Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Public Health Engineer need?

Public Health Engineers need to have a solid foundation in engineering principles and public health practices.

This includes knowledge in water and wastewater treatment, air quality, environmental health, and disease prevention.

They must also have strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

Effective communication and teamwork are necessary as they often work with other professionals in developing public health policies and strategies.

 

Do Public Health Engineers need a degree?

Yes, an aspiring Public Health Engineer typically needs at least a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, Public Health, or a related field.

Many also pursue a master’s degree in Public Health or Environmental Engineering.

Additionally, licensure is often required which usually involves passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and the Professional Engineering (PE) exam.

 

What should you look for in a Public Health Engineer resume?

In addition to the required educational qualifications and licensure, look for experience in designing and implementing public health systems, conducting research, and analyzing data.

Knowledge of specific public health issues, such as waterborne diseases or air pollution, would also be advantageous.

Any additional certifications or experience in project management, policy development, or community outreach could indicate a more qualified candidate.

 

What qualities make a good Public Health Engineer?

A good Public Health Engineer is a problem solver who can apply engineering principles to public health issues effectively.

They should be able to work collaboratively with various stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, and other health professionals.

They must be detail-oriented, critical thinkers who can analyze data and devise practical solutions.

A commitment to public health and an understanding of cultural and economic factors that affect public health are also essential.

 

How is the job market for Public Health Engineers?

The job market for Public Health Engineers is generally competitive but promising, given the increasing focus on public health and environmental issues worldwide.

There is a growing demand for professionals who can engineer solutions to public health challenges such as water and air pollution, disease outbreak, and waste management.

Therefore, qualified and experienced Public Health Engineers have good prospects in both government and private sectors.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve lifted the veil on the authentic nature of being a public health engineer.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about designing water systems.

It’s about shaping the public health landscape, one project at a time.

With our definitive public health engineer job description template and authentic examples from the field, you’re ready to take your next step.

But why should you halt your progress?

Go one step further with our job description generator. It’s your key to crafting precision-engineered job listings or honing your resume to a professional sheen.

Bear in mind:

Every project you undertake contributes to the larger public health picture.

Let’s create a healthier world. Together.

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