With the increasing focus on workplace safety, occupational health and safety specialists are in high demand. These professionals play a vital role in preventing workplace accidents and illnesses, and ensuring that employees are working in a safe and healthy environment.
What Does an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Do?
Occupational health and safety specialists work with employers to develop and implement safety programs, conduct safety inspections, and investigate accidents and illnesses. They also provide training to employees on safety procedures and hazards.
Responsibilities:
- Developing and implementing safety programs
- Conducting safety inspections
- Investigating accidents and illnesses
- Providing training to employees on safety procedures and hazards
- Monitoring compliance with safety regulations
- Advising employers on safety-related matters
Education and Training Requirements
Occupational health and safety specialists typically have a bachelor’s degree in occupational health and safety, safety engineering, or a related field. They may also have additional certification, such as the Certified Safety Professional (CSP) certification.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for occupational health and safety specialists is expected to be excellent over the next few years. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of occupational health and safety specialists is projected to grow 8% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Salary Expectations
The median annual salary for occupational health and safety specialists was $76,100 in May 2020, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $48,150, and the highest 10% earned more than $124,590.
5 Best Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Jobs in 2025
- Safety Manager
Safety managers are responsible for overseeing the safety programs of their organizations. They develop and implement safety policies and procedures, conduct safety inspections, and investigate accidents and illnesses.
Median Salary: $92,720
- Industrial Hygienist
Industrial hygienists identify and evaluate workplace hazards that may cause illness or injury. They develop and implement control measures to reduce or eliminate these hazards.
Median Salary: $84,810
- Ergonomist
Ergonomists design workplaces that are safe and comfortable for employees. They identify and evaluate musculoskeletal disorders, and develop and implement programs to prevent these disorders.
Median Salary: $76,750
- Safety Engineer
Safety engineers design and implement safety systems and equipment. They also conduct safety inspections and investigations.
Median Salary: $84,380
- Environmental Health and Safety Specialist
Environmental health and safety specialists work with employers to comply with environmental and safety regulations. They develop and implement programs to protect employees from environmental hazards, such as hazardous chemicals and waste.
Median Salary: $78,030
Tips for Finding a Job as an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist
- Network with professionals in the field. Attend industry conferences and events, and connect with people on LinkedIn.
- Get certified. Earning a certification, such as the Certified Safety Professional (CSP) certification, can boost your credibility and make you more attractive to employers.
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to each job you apply for. Highlight your skills and experience that are relevant to the specific job you are applying for.
- Practice your interviewing skills. Be prepared to answer questions about your experience, skills, and knowledge of occupational health and safety.
Conclusion
Occupational health and safety specialists play a vital role in protecting employees from workplace accidents and illnesses. These professionals are in high demand, and the job outlook is expected to be excellent over the next few years. If you are interested in a career in occupational health and safety, there are a number of resources available to help you get started.
