Environmental Health Director Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the age of escalating environmental concerns, the focus on Environmental Health Directors has never been more critical.

As global awareness about environmental health grows, so does the demand for proficient leaders who can develop, implement, and enhance our environmental health strategies.

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

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of environmental health management,

You’re in the right place.

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

Let’s dive right into it.

Environmental Health Director Duties and Responsibilities

Environmental Health Directors are responsible for designing, planning, and implementing environmental health programs and initiatives within their organization.

They also ensure compliance with environmental, health and safety regulations.

The duties and responsibilities of an Environmental Health Director include:

• Developing and implementing environmental health policies and procedures
• Ensuring the organization’s compliance with environmental, health and safety regulations
• Conducting assessments and investigations to identify environmental health risks
• Developing strategies to manage and mitigate environmental health risks
• Coordinating with local, state, and federal agencies on environmental health matters
• Leading and managing the environmental health team
• Providing training and education on environmental health issues
• Preparing reports on the organization’s environmental health activities
• Developing and managing the budget for the environmental health department
• Staying informed about the latest developments in environmental health science

 

Environmental Health Director Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Environmental Health Director to lead our team in the management and implementation of environmental health programs.

The Environmental Health Director will be responsible for overseeing the analysis and control of environmental health hazards, implementing health policies, and ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal environmental regulations.

The successful candidate should have a strong understanding of environmental health principles, excellent leadership skills, and a proven track record in managing environmental health programs.

 

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage environmental health programs and services.
• Develop and implement environmental health policies and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal environmental regulations.
• Conduct research and analysis of environmental health hazards.
• Coordinate and collaborate with other health departments and agencies.
• Manage the department budget and resources.
• Provide expert advice on environmental health issues to stakeholders.
• Lead and supervise the environmental health team.
• Conduct community outreach and education programs.
• Manage and respond to public health emergencies and incidents.

 

Qualifications

• Minimum of a Master’s degree in Public Health, Environmental Health, or a related field.
• Significant experience in managing environmental health programs.
• Excellent knowledge of local, state, and federal environmental health regulations.
• Strong leadership and managerial skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to respond effectively to public health emergencies.
• Proven record of implementing successful environmental health policies and programs.

 

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive health insurance
• Dental and vision insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Environmental Health Director
• Work Environment: Office setting with frequent field visits. Some travel may be required for meetings or conferences.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Chief Health Officer or County Administrator.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $150,000 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 Director Do?

An Environmental Health Director primarily works in public health departments, non-profit organizations or health consulting firms.

They play a significant role in managing and implementing environmental health programs within their jurisdiction.

They are responsible for developing, promoting, and enforcing programs and policies that reduce environmental health hazards and improve the health and well-being of the community.

Their work often involves overseeing the inspection of food establishments, water systems, and waste disposal systems to ensure they comply with local, state, and federal health laws and regulations.

They assess environmental health risks and develop strategies to manage and mitigate these risks.

This could include creating education programs or initiatives to inform the public about environmental health issues and precautions to take.

Environmental Health Directors also handle administrative duties such as budgeting, strategic planning, staff hiring and management, and liaising with other departments and governmental bodies.

They may also be involved in research or advocacy for environmental health policies and regulations at higher governmental levels.

Their ultimate goal is to protect the community’s health and safety by ensuring a clean and safe environment.

 

Environmental Health Director Qualifications and Skills

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

• Extensive knowledge of environmental health laws, regulations, and policies to ensure the organization’s compliance.
• Strong leadership skills to manage a team of environmental health professionals and oversee all environmental health activities within the organization.
• Exceptional communication skills to convey complex environmental health information to a variety of audiences, including policy makers, stakeholders, and the public.
• Problem-solving skills to identify environmental health risks and devise strategies to mitigate them.
• Strategic planning abilities to develop and implement comprehensive environmental health programs.
• Analytical skills for evaluating environmental health data and making informed decisions based on the findings.
• Project management skills to ensure that environmental health projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with other departments, regulatory bodies, and external partners to achieve environmental health goals.

 

Environmental Health Director Experience Requirements

Candidates for the role of Environmental Health Director typically require a minimum of five years of experience in the environmental health field.

This experience may be gained through roles such as Environmental Health Officer, Environmental Analyst, Health Inspector, or similar roles.

These professionals may have also gained practical experience through internships or graduate schemes within public health or environmental health departments.

On-the-job experience often provides the necessary skills in areas such as risk assessment, environmental audits, pollution control, and public health policy.

Candidates with around 10 years of experience often have a solid foundation in the technical aspects of environmental health and may have begun to take on more strategic responsibilities.

They may have experience in project management, policy development, community engagement, and team leadership.

Those with more than 10 years of experience in the field of environmental health are usually suitable for the role of Environmental Health Director.

This level of experience often comes with a deep understanding of the field, as well as extensive managerial and leadership experience.

These professionals are typically involved in planning, directing, and coordinating activities in the environmental health department.

 

Environmental Health Director Education and Training Requirements

To become an Environmental Health Director, one typically needs a bachelor’s degree in environmental health, environmental science, public health, or a closely related field.

These programs teach students about biology, chemistry, toxicology, environmental law, and risk assessment, all of which are essential in this role.

Many employers prefer candidates who have a master’s degree in environmental health, public health, or a related field.

These advanced programs focus on strategic planning, program management, health promotion, and disease prevention.

In addition to the formal education, Environmental Health Directors typically need several years of related work experience, often in a public health or environmental health setting.

They may start in roles such as environmental health specialists or environmental scientists and gradually move into leadership positions.

Certifications, while not always required, can enhance professional standing and job prospects.

The National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) offers several certifications that are widely recognized in the field, such as the Registered Environmental Health Specialist/Registered Sanitarian (REHS/RS) credential.

Continuing education is also important in this role due to the evolving nature of environmental health and safety regulations.

Therefore, Environmental Health Directors are often encouraged to attend workshops, conferences, and seminars to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field.

 

Environmental Health Director Salary Expectations

The average salary for an Environmental Health Director is approximately $92,580 (USD) per year.

This compensation can significantly vary depending on the individual’s years of experience, the size of the organization they work for, and the geographical location of their employment.

Additional factors such as higher education and specialized certifications may also influence earning potential.

 

Environmental Health Director Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Environmental Health Director need?

Environmental Health Directors need to have strong analytical and problem-solving skills to assess the environmental health risks and create effective strategies to manage them.

They should possess excellent leadership abilities to guide and motivate their team.

They should also have good communication skills to present their findings and recommendations to stakeholders, and negotiation skills to achieve consensus on environmental health policies.

 

Do Environmental Health Directors need a degree?

Yes, most Environmental Health Director positions require at least a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Health, Public Health, or a related field.

However, most employers prefer candidates with a Master’s degree.

They also require several years of experience in environmental health management or a similar field.

Some positions may also require professional certifications.

 

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

Firstly, check for a degree in Environmental Health or a related field.

Then look for relevant work experience, especially in leadership roles.

Check for experience in developing and implementing environmental health programs, managing teams, and coordinating with stakeholders.

It would be a plus if they have experience in policy development, research, and public speaking.

Certifications in environmental health or related areas can also be an advantage.

 

What qualities make a good Environmental Health Director?

A good Environmental Health Director is passionate about improving public health and is committed to protecting the environment.

They have a strategic mindset, able to envision and implement long-term environmental health initiatives.

They can effectively communicate complex ideas to different audiences.

They should also be resilient, able to manage the stress and pressure that comes with handling environmental crises.

 

How challenging is it to hire an Environmental Health Director?

Hiring an Environmental Health Director can be challenging because this role requires a unique combination of skills and qualifications.

They need to have solid knowledge of environmental health, strong leadership skills, and an ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders.

Therefore, it might take some time to find a candidate who fulfills all these requirements.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being an Environmental Health Director.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about environmental management.

It’s about molding a sustainable future, one environmental health policy at a time.

Armed with our go-to Environmental Health Director job description template and real-life examples, you’re primed to make your move.

But why stop there?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your best ally in creating pinpoint accurate listings or optimizing your resume to brilliance.

Don’t forget:

Each environmental health policy is a piece of the larger sustainability puzzle.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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