Information
The Town of Rockland is seeking a dynamic, forward-thinking public health professional to serve as its next Board of Health Agent. This leadership position plays a vital role in protecting and promoting the health and safety of our community while guiding the Town’s public health programs, regulatory enforcement, and emergency response efforts.
The Health Agent works collaboratively with municipal leadership, town departments, regional partners, and community stakeholders to ensure effective, responsive, and compliant public health operations.
Key Responsibilities
Public Health Leadership: Serve as the Town’s chief public health official responsible for interpreting and enforcing Massachusetts General Laws, the State Sanitary Code, Board of Health Regulations, and Town Bylaws.
Regulatory Oversight and Inspections: Conduct and oversee inspections of food establishments, housing, septic systems, recreational facilities, and other regulated entities. Investigate public health complaints and environmental concerns to ensure compliance and protect community well-being.
Department Management: Lead and supervise Health Department staff, establish performance expectations, and ensure efficient delivery of public health services.
Emergency Preparedness and Response: Serve as the local public health authority during declared public health emergencies and be available for urgent public health matters as needed.
Budget and Administration: Develop and manage the department’s operating budget, maintain official records, and provide reports and recommendations to the Board of Health and municipal leadership.
Regional Collaboration & Grant Coordination: Serve as the Town’s designated coordinator for activities associated with the Public Health Excellence (PHE) Grant. Collaborate with Rockland as host community and regional partners to support compliance, reporting, and implementation of shared public health services consistent with state requirements.
Solid Waste & Recycling Operations: Oversee operations of the Rockland Recycling Center and municipal curbside solid waste and recycling services, including staff supervision, contract bid preparation, contract execution, and ongoing contract administration. Ensure compliance with all applicable solid waste regulations; maintain accurate tonnage records; submit required annual reports to the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP); report recycling rates and materials collected; and maintain documentation supporting compliance with the Commonwealth’s Solid Waste Master Plan and municipal waste reduction goals.
Qualifications
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in public health, environmental health, health administration, or related field required; Master’s degree preferred. Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.
• Experience: Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible public health experience, including regulatory enforcement and program administration. Supervisory or municipal experience preferred.
• Certification: Must meet certification requirements for appointment as a Health Agent under Massachusetts law. Valid Massachusetts Driver’s License required.
• Professional Skills: Strong knowledge of Massachusetts public health regulations; demonstrated leadership ability; excellent communication and organizational skills; ability to exercise sound judgment; and the capacity to work independently while fostering collaborative relationships across departments and municipalities.
Why Join Rockland?
This is an opportunity to lead public health initiatives in a supportive and engaged community. Rockland is committed to strengthening local and regional public health services and values innovation, collaboration, and professional growth.
Salary and Benefits
- Annual salary of $87,500
- Comprehensive benefits package
- Blue Cross Blue Shield health insurance (79% Town-paid)
- Participation in the Town’s retirement system
- Professional development opportunities
You will play a key role in safeguarding community health while contributing to regional public health collaboration efforts.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a letter of interest, resume, and completed application to the Town of Rockland Human Resources Director, Lori Taylor at ltaylor@rockland-ma.gov. Please see the full job description in documents below. This position will remain open until filled.
This is an exciting opportunity for a public health professional seeking meaningful impact, leadership responsibility, and the chance to shape the future of local public health services in a collaborative municipal environment.
The Town of Rockland is an Equal Opportunity Employer.