Occupational Health and Safety Specialists

Occupational health and safety specialists focus on protecting workers and the public by evaluating work environments. Day-to-day activities include gathering information, analyzing data, and monitoring surroundings to ensure compliance with safety laws and standards. They identify potential hazards, such as chemical, physical, biological, or ergonomic risks, and make decisions to solve these safety issues. These specialists document their findings, update their own professional knowledge, and train others on proper safety procedures.

This role is highly investigative, requiring strong intellectual curiosity, cautiousness, and attention to detail. Specialists must use critical thinking, complex problem solving, and active listening to evaluate systems and make sound judgments. They need a solid foundation in chemistry, biology, public safety, engineering, and law. Because they frequently communicate with supervisors and teach staff, strong writing, speaking, and social perceptiveness are essential. They must also show high integrity, dependability, and self-control when enforcing regulations.

To enter this career, most individuals need a bachelor's degree. This level of preparation typically requires several years of related work experience alongside the degree. Students preparing for this field often major in public health, pharmacology and toxicology, or quality control and safety technologies.

While specific requirements vary, some states list a license for this work. Professionals can also earn various industry certifications to demonstrate their expertise. Examples of these credentials include the Associate Safety and Health Manager, Certified Dangerous Goods Professional, Certified Occupational Safety Specialist, and Certified Patient Safety Officer. Additionally, individuals can pursue specialized credentials like the Certified Safety and Health Official in either construction or general industry.

In 2025, the median annual pay for occupational health and safety specialists was $90,150. Salaries span a wide range, with the lowest 10% of earners making less than $55,000, while the highest 10% earn more than $134,950.

There were 140,610 people employed in this occupation. Between 2025 and 2035, employment is projected to grow by 18.5%, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth, combined with normal turnover, is expected to result in approximately 17,100 job openings each year.