Environmental Health and Safety Director Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of increased environmental awareness, the focus on Environmental Health and Safety Directors has never been more critical.

As our world evolves, so does the demand for seasoned experts who can guide, strengthen, and ensure our environmental and workplace safety practices.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Environmental Health and Safety Director?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the scope of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the complexities of environmental health and safety management,

You’re at the right spot.

Today, we introduce a customizable Environmental Health and Safety Director job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Environmental Health and Safety Director Duties and Responsibilities

An Environmental Health and Safety Director is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing the organization’s safety programs.

They ensure that these programs comply with environmental regulations and standards, protecting both the environment and the health of employees.

The duties and responsibilities for the Environmental Health and Safety Director include:

• Developing and implementing the organization’s environmental health and safety programs
• Monitoring the work environment to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and laws
• Conducting risk assessments and enforcing preventative measures
• Investigating accidents and incidents to discover causes and handle worker’s compensation claims
• Creating and managing the company’s disaster preparedness plans
• Educating and training employees on environmental health and safety protocols
• Setting organizational safety policies and standards that comply with law
• Keeping abreast of industrial changes for anticipation of possible impact on environmental health and safety protocols
• Coordinating and scheduling necessary safety meetings and trainings
• Ensuring that all safety inspections are properly carried out, fire drills are held regularly, and first aid kits are adequately stocked
• Implementing and managing the company’s ISO 14001 environmental management system
• Communicating with regulatory bodies to report any accidents, incidents, or disputes.

 

Environmental Health and Safety Director Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Environmental Health and Safety Director to oversee our organization’s safety initiatives.

You will be responsible for developing and implementing health and safety programs, ensuring compliance with regulations and promoting a culture of safety in the workplace.

Our ideal candidate has substantial experience in workplace safety initiatives, a keen awareness of environmental health issues, and exceptional leadership skills.

The role of the Environmental Health and Safety Director is to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all employees and to ensure that our organization meets all safety standards and legal requirements.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement health and safety programs
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal safety regulations
• Conduct regular safety audits and inspections
• Organize and conduct training and presentations for health and safety matters and accident prevention
• Respond to incidents and emergencies
• Prepare reports on health and safety activities
• Monitor and manage waste and pollution management activities
• Promote a culture of safety in the workplace
• Coordinate with HR to maintain records of incidents and produce statistics

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Environmental Health and Safety Director
• Knowledge of potentially hazardous materials or practices
• Experience in writing reports and policies for health and safety
• Familiarity with conducting data analysis and reporting statistics
• Proficient in MS Office; Working knowledge of safety management information systems is a plus
• Outstanding organizational skills
• Diligent with great attention to detail
• BSc/BA in safety management, engineering or relevant field is preferred
• Valid qualification in occupational health and safety

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Environmental Health and Safety Director
• Work Environment: Office setting with regular visits to worksites. Some travel may be required for inspections or meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Chief Operating Officer or Chief Executive Officer.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $80,000 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 an Environmental Health and Safety Director Do?

Environmental Health and Safety Directors are generally employed by companies across a range of industries, including construction, manufacturing, and government organizations.

Their main responsibility is to ensure that the company complies with all environmental, health, and safety regulations.

They typically oversee the development and implementation of health and safety programs within the company to minimize the risk of job-related accidents.

This includes creating safety policies, conducting safety inspections, and identifying potential hazards.

Environmental Health and Safety Directors also conduct training sessions for employees to educate them about potential risks and safety procedures.

They are responsible for maintaining accurate records of incidents and producing safety reports to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

In terms of environmental responsibilities, they ensure the company is in compliance with all environmental laws and regulations.

This could involve managing waste disposal, reducing emissions, or overseeing environmental audits.

In the event of an incident, the Environmental Health and Safety Director will lead an investigation, identify the cause, and recommend corrective actions.

They also liaise with external bodies, such as regulatory agencies and health and safety consultants, as required.

 

Environmental Health and Safety Director Qualifications and Skills

An Environmental Health and Safety Director should be equipped with the following skills and qualifications:

• Proficiency in understanding and applying environmental health and safety laws and regulations at federal, state and local levels.
• Strong leadership skills to guide and manage the environmental health and safety team effectively.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to identify potential hazards, implement safety protocols and evaluate their effectiveness.
• Excellent communication skills to relay safety information across different departments and levels, from management to employees.
• Ability to conduct thorough investigations into health and safety incidents, determining cause and recommending preventative measures.
• Experience in risk management and mitigation strategies to minimize potential hazards and ensure employee safety.
• Excellent project management skills for coordinating and implementing safety training programs and initiatives.
• Interpersonal skills to work collaboratively with employees, regulatory agencies, and industry professionals.

 

Environmental Health and Safety Director Experience Requirements

The Environmental Health and Safety Director role typically requires a substantial amount of experience, often more than 10 years in the field of environmental health and safety.

This professional experience should cover practical knowledge of the regulations and standards applicable to the organization’s industry.

Entry-level candidates to the field often start in roles such as Environmental Health and Safety Coordinator or Specialist, where they gain vital practical experience.

They typically have a minimum of 2 years of related work experience, which can be obtained through internships or full-time roles.

Mid-level candidates may occupy roles such as Environmental Health and Safety Manager or Supervisor, where they are expected to have between 5 to 7 years of relevant work experience.

They gain more in-depth understanding of environmental safety procedures, risk assessment, and incident management.

Candidates aiming for the Director position should have at least 10 years of experience, with substantial exposure to strategic planning, policy development, and team leadership.

They should also have experience in training and educating staff about safety protocols and have a strong understanding of environmental laws and regulations.

In addition to practical experience, professional certification such as Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) can be beneficial and may be required by some employers.

Moreover, experience in sectors such as manufacturing, construction, or chemical industries, which are typically more exposed to environmental health and safety risks, can be especially valuable for this role.

 

Environmental Health and Safety Director Education and Training Requirements

An Environmental Health and Safety Director typically requires at least a bachelor’s degree in environmental health, occupational safety, industrial hygiene, or a related field.

They need a strong understanding of environmental health and safety protocols, regulations, and procedures, as well as knowledge about hazardous materials management and environmental science.

Many positions may prefer or require candidates to have a master’s degree in environmental health or safety, public health, or a related discipline.

This higher level of education can help prepare them for the strategic planning and decision-making responsibilities of a director role.

Certifications such as Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) are highly desirable and may be required for some positions.

Some roles may also require specific training in areas like hazardous waste operations and emergency response (HAZWOPER), or other specialized safety training.

In addition to formal education and certifications, prospective Environmental Health and Safety Directors will need several years of experience in the field.

This experience can demonstrate their practical understanding of environmental health and safety regulations, and their ability to implement and manage safety programs within an organization.

Continuous education and staying up-to-date with the latest environmental health and safety regulations, standards, and best practices are also essential for this role.

 

Environmental Health and Safety Director Salary Expectations

An Environmental Health and Safety Director can expect to earn an average salary of $111,900 (USD) per year.

However, this salary can vary depending on several factors such as the individual’s level of experience, education, the size and type of the employing company, and the geographical location.

 

Environmental Health and Safety Director Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Environmental Health and Safety Director need?

An Environmental Health and Safety Director needs excellent interpersonal and communication skills, as they work closely with different departments and levels of personnel.

They require strong analytical skills, allowing them to assess and mitigate risk effectively.

Additionally, they should possess leadership skills to drive the implementation of safety protocols and procedures.

 

What qualifications are required for an Environmental Health and Safety Director?

Most Environmental Health and Safety Directors hold a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, occupational safety, industrial hygiene, or a related field.

Some companies prefer candidates with a master’s degree or professional certifications, such as Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH).

They also need several years of experience in environmental health and safety roles.

 

What should you look for in an Environmental Health and Safety Director’s resume?

When reviewing a resume for an Environmental Health and Safety Director, check for a relevant degree and certifications, such as CSP or CIH.

Look for evidence of experience in developing and implementing health and safety programs, dealing with regulatory agencies, and conducting safety training.

Leadership experience is also essential, as this role often involves managing a team.

 

What qualities make a good Environmental Health and Safety Director?

A good Environmental Health and Safety Director is highly detail-oriented to identify potential safety hazards and ensure compliance with regulations.

They have strong leadership skills, enabling them to manage a team and communicate health and safety protocols effectively.

They’re also proactive and reactive, anticipating potential risks and addressing issues promptly when they arise.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Environmental Health and Safety Director?

Hiring an Environmental Health and Safety Director can be challenging as it requires finding a candidate with a unique blend of technical knowledge, experience, and soft skills.

This role also requires a comprehensive understanding of various regulations and the ability to implement effective safety programs, which narrows the field of qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve dissected what it truly entails to be an Environmental Health and Safety Director.

Surprise, surprise.

It’s not merely about compliance and regulations.

It’s about safeguarding the health and safety of employees and the environment, one policy at a time.

With our tried-and-true Environmental Health and Safety Director job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why limit yourself?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your key to crafting detailed job listings or refining your resume to absolute precision.

Remember:

Every policy implemented is a step towards a safer and healthier work environment.

Let’s create that future. Together.

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