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

In our increasingly eco-conscious world, the role of Environmental Health and Safety Officers has never been more critical.

As society becomes more aware of the importance of sustainable living and working, the demand for professionals who can guide and maintain our environmental, health, and safety standards continues to grow.

But let’s delve deeper: What are the real expectations for an Environmental Health and Safety Officer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply interested in the nuts and bolts of environmental health and safety management,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Environmental Health and Safety Officer job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Environmental Health and Safety Officer Duties and Responsibilities

Environmental Health and Safety Officers play a crucial role in maintaining a safe environment for workers within various industries.

They implement environmental health and safety programs to ensure compliance with state, federal, and local regulations.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing and implementing environmental health and safety programs and policies to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations
• Conducting regular site inspections to ensure adherence to health and safety guidelines
• Providing guidance and advice on measures to minimize hazards or unhealthy situations
• Organizing and conducting health and safety training for employees and management
• Conducting accident investigations, identifying causes, and recommending corrective actions
• Monitoring and managing waste disposal and recycling activities
• Maintaining accurate records of inspections, incidents, and training activities
• Developing and maintaining emergency response plans and procedures
• Liaising with regulatory bodies and ensuring the company meets its statutory obligations
• Reviewing and updating health and safety policies and ensuring they are observed
• Preparing health and safety strategies and developing internal policy
• Outlining safe operational procedures, identifying potential hazards and recommending preventive measures

 

Environmental Health and Safety Officer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a qualified and dedicated Environmental Health and Safety Officer to join our team.

This role involves developing and implementing environmental health and safety programs to promote a culture of safety and ensure compliance with national safety regulations and industry standards.

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of environmental health and safety regulations, excellent problem-solving abilities, and strong organizational skills.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute health and safety plans in the workplace according to legal guidelines
• Prepare and enforce policies to establish a culture of health and safety
• Evaluate practices, procedures and facilities to assess risk and adherence to regulations
• Conduct training and presentations for health and safety matters and accident prevention
• Monitor compliance to policies and laws by inspecting employees and operations
• Investigate accidents or incidents to discover causes and handle worker’s compensation claims
• Recommend solutions to issues, improvement opportunities or new prevention measures
• Report on health and safety awareness, issues and statistics

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a safety officer
• In depth knowledge of legislation and procedures
• 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
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to present and explain health and safety topics
• BSc/BA in safety management, engineering or relevant field is preferred
• Certificate 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 Officer
• Work Environment: This role requires both office work and field inspections. Some travel may be necessary.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Environmental Health and Safety Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based on candidate’s experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $65,000 minimum to $95,000 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 Officer Do?

Environmental Health and Safety Officers work in a variety of settings such as manufacturing plants, corporations, construction sites, and other workplaces where health and safety could be compromised.

They are responsible for developing, maintaining, and implementing safety policies and procedures to ensure a safe working environment in compliance with environmental, health and safety regulations.

Their duties often include conducting regular safety audits, inspections, and risk assessments, as well as identifying potential hazards and implementing corrective actions.

These officers provide training and education to employees about potential work hazards and safety procedures.

They also manage and maintain safety equipment, and ensure that all personnel are equipped with the necessary protective gear.

In the event of an incident, Environmental Health and Safety Officers are responsible for investigating accidents, preparing reports, and recommending improvements to avoid future incidents.

They also stay updated on new laws and regulations regarding health and safety in the workplace, ensuring that their company is in compliance and up to date on the necessary certifications and permits.

In some cases, they may also be involved in managing waste, monitoring pollution levels, and developing strategies for environmental conservation.

Overall, their main goal is to prevent accidents and injuries, and create a safe, healthy, and environmentally-friendly workplace.

 

Environmental Health and Safety Officer Qualifications and Skills

An Environmental Health and Safety Officer should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Exceptional knowledge of safety regulations and environmental laws to ensure the company is in compliance.
• Strong observational skills to identify potential hazards and risks within the workplace.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively convey safety protocols and procedures to all staff members.
• Problem-solving skills to find the best solutions to mitigate risks and develop safety plans.
• Organizational skills to maintain records of inspections, incident reports, and safety-related activities.
• Leadership and training abilities to facilitate safety training sessions and promote a culture of safety in the workplace.
• Technical knowledge in using safety equipment and tools, and implementing safety systems and protocols.
• Ability to remain calm and make decisions under pressure, especially during emergency situations.
• Detail-oriented nature to ensure that all compliance-related documents and reports are accurate and up to date.

 

Environmental Health and Safety Officer Experience Requirements

Entry-level Environmental Health and Safety Officers typically require a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, occupational safety, or a related field and may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often obtained through internships or part-time roles.

These professionals can also gain practical experience in roles such as Environmental Technician, Safety Coordinator, or Health and Safety Advisor.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience have usually enhanced their knowledge and skills in previous Health and Safety Officer roles or have conducted safety inspections and audits in more specialized roles such as Safety Analyst or Environmental Consultant.

They will have demonstrated capabilities in developing and implementing health and safety programs and complying with environmental regulations.

Those with more than 5 years of experience often hold a master’s degree or professional certifications such as Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH).

They may have substantial expertise in conducting risk assessments and investigations, developing safety training materials, and liaising with regulatory bodies.

Such candidates may also have some leadership experience and may be ready for a managerial or team-lead position in the environmental health and safety field.

 

Environmental Health and Safety Officer Education and Training Requirements

Environmental Health and Safety Officers typically have a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, occupational health, safety management, or a related field.

They also need a strong understanding of federal, state, and local health and safety regulations, as well as skills in identifying, assessing, and reducing risks.

Some positions, particularly in larger corporations or industries with significant environmental concerns, may require a master’s degree in environmental health, industrial hygiene, or a similar field.

Many Environmental Health and Safety Officers also hold one or more professional certifications, such as the Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH), or Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) designation.

These certifications are often preferred, if not required, by employers as they validate an individual’s expertise and commitment to the field.

Moreover, continued professional development through seminars, workshops, or further education courses is highly recommended to stay updated on the latest safety standards, regulations, and best practices.

 

Environmental Health and Safety Officer Salary Expectations

An Environmental Health and Safety Officer earns an average salary of $71,567 (USD) per year.

The actual salary may vary depending on factors such as experience, qualifications, location, and the size and type of the employing organization.

 

Environmental Health and Safety Officer Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Environmental Health and Safety Officer need?

Environmental Health and Safety Officers need to have a keen attention to detail to detect potential hazards.

They should possess excellent analytical skills to assess safety protocols and recommend improvements.

Communication skills are critical, as they need to educate and train employees on safety practices.

They also need to have good problem-solving abilities to address any safety issues that might arise.

 

Do Environmental Health and Safety Officers need a degree?

Yes, most Environmental Health and Safety Officers are required to have a bachelor’s degree in occupational health, environmental safety, or a related field.

In addition to this, many roles require certifications such as the Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH).

 

What should you look for in an Environmental Health and Safety Officer resume?

On a resume, look for formal education in relevant fields and any certifications related to health and safety.

Also, consider experience in creating, implementing, and overseeing safety programs.

Any experience in training and educating staff in safety procedures is a plus.

Familiarity with safety regulations and standards, such as OSHA, is also crucial.

 

What qualities make a good Environmental Health and Safety Officer?

A good Environmental Health and Safety Officer is dedicated to promoting a safe and healthy work environment.

They should be thorough and detail-oriented, ensuring all safety measures are in place and followed.

Good problem-solving skills are also essential, as they may need to find solutions to various safety concerns.

Effective communication skills are necessary to relay safety information to employees at all levels.

 

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

The difficulty in hiring an Environmental Health and Safety Officer can vary based on the industry and location.

In some areas, there may be a high demand for these professionals due to strict regulatory requirements.

In others, it might be easier to find qualified candidates.

However, it’s important to ensure that the candidate has the right combination of education, certifications, and practical experience for your specific needs.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we have illuminated the true essence of being an Environmental Health and Safety Officer.

Surprised?

It’s not just about following regulations.

It’s about ensuring the health of our planet and its inhabitants, one safety measure at a time.

With our comprehensive Environmental Health and Safety Officer job description template and practical examples, you’re all set to make a difference.

But why stop there?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your go-to resource for precisely-crafted job listings or enhancing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every safety measure contributes to a healthier and safer world.

Let’s create that future. Together.

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