Environmental Health Nurse Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of heightened environmental awareness, the role of an environmental health nurse is more crucial than ever.

As society strives to sustain our natural resources, the demand for professionals who can balance human health and environmental integrity heightens.

But let’s dive deep: What’s genuinely expected from an environmental health nurse?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the integral role of environmental health nursing,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable environmental health nurse job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Environmental Health Nurse Duties and Responsibilities

Environmental Health Nurses focus on health promotion and preventive healthcare to reduce health risks in communities.

They use their specialized knowledge of public health and environmental hazards to ensure the community’s health and safety.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Assessing community health issues and developing intervention plans
• Conducting health education programs to increase awareness about environmental risks
• Collaborating with public health organizations and community groups to develop policies aimed at environmental health protection
• Implementing and monitoring health screening programs
• Providing care and counseling to patients affected by environmental health issues
• Conducting research on the impact of environmental factors on health
• Documenting and reporting findings to public health departments and other relevant agencies
• Advising on measures to control the spread of diseases in the community
• Advocating for environmental health rights and responsibilities

 

Environmental Health Nurse Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Environmental Health Nurse to join our team.

The primary role of an Environmental Health Nurse is to implement and evaluate environmental health programs aimed at promoting, protecting, and improving community health.

Our ideal candidate is knowledgeable about environmental health sciences, disease prevention, and community health education.

They should also have excellent leadership skills and a strong passion for improving public health.

 

Responsibilities

• Assess the health needs of the community and develop plans to improve health conditions.
• Provide health education about environmental health risks and disease prevention.
• Advocate for public policies that improve community health and safety.
• Conduct research on environmental health issues and contribute to the scientific knowledge base.
• Consult with healthcare professionals and community groups on environmental health issues.
• Implement infection control measures during public health emergencies.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of environmental health programs.

 

Qualifications

• Registered Nurse (RN) license required.
• Bachelor’s degree in nursing or related field preferred.
• Experience in public health nursing or environmental health is a plus.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.
• Strong understanding of environmental health sciences and disease prevention methods.
• Ability to work with diverse populations and community groups.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Environmental Health Nurse
• Work Environment: This position may require both office work and travel within the community for program implementation and assessment. May be required to respond to public health emergencies.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Public Health or Chief Nursing Officer.
• Salary: Salary is dependent on candidate’s experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• 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, cover letter, and any relevant certifications or licenses to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Environmental Health Nurse Do?

Environmental Health Nurses work primarily in healthcare facilities, community health organizations, and government agencies.

They may also provide consultation services or work in research or academia.

Their primary role is to identify and prevent environmental health risks to the community.

This involves educating the public about potential health hazards in their environment, conducting health assessments to detect potential risks, and creating strategies to mitigate these risks.

Environmental Health Nurses also collaborate with other healthcare professionals, environmental scientists, and policymakers to develop and implement public health policies related to environmental health.

They might also be involved in disaster preparedness and response, aiding communities affected by natural disasters, disease outbreaks, or other environmental health emergencies.

Their role also includes advocating for environmental justice, ensuring that all communities have equal protection from environmental health hazards.

This can involve lobbying for policy changes, conducting research, or working directly with communities to improve their environmental health.

Environmental Health Nurses must stay updated with the latest research and trends in environmental health, and use this knowledge to inform their practice and improve the health of their communities.

 

Environmental Health Nurse Qualifications and Skills

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

• Strong knowledge of environmental health principles, practices, and techniques to identify and address health risks.
• Ability to perform comprehensive environmental health assessments, identifying potential health risks and implementing preventive measures.
• Excellent observational skills to identify changes in patient’s health status and respond accordingly.
• Proficient in patient education, capable of effectively communicating potential risks and preventive measures to individuals and communities.
• Strong interpersonal skills to work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals, government agencies, and community organizations.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills to address complex environmental health issues and develop effective solutions.
• Strong understanding of public health laws and regulations, as well as environmental policies and guidelines.
• Ability to conduct research, analyze data and present findings on environmental health issues.
• Physical abilities that allow for fieldwork, such as conducting on-site inspections and environmental health assessments.

 

Environmental Health Nurse Experience Requirements

Entry-level Environmental Health Nurse candidates typically must have 1 to 2 years of nursing experience, often gained through internships or part-time roles in hospitals, clinics, or public health agencies.

In addition to a registered nursing license, these professionals may also need to gain practical experience in areas such as environmental health, infectious disease control, and community health education.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience usually develop their skills and knowledge in Environmental Health Nursing roles, often dealing with complex cases of environmental health issues, disaster management, and public health crisis.

They may also have additional certifications or education in environmental health or related fields.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership or managerial experience under their belt and may be ready for roles such as Environmental Health Nursing Supervisor or Public Health Program Manager.

This level of experience often includes skills in program planning, budgeting, and staff management in a healthcare setting.

In addition to experience, continuous learning and staying updated on the latest environmental health issues and trends, as well as public health policies, is crucial in this role.

 

Environmental Health Nurse Education and Training Requirements

Environmental Health Nurses typically require a bachelor’s degree in nursing, although an associate degree in nursing may also be acceptable for some entry-level positions.

These degree programs will equip students with the essential knowledge and skills in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, psychology, and other health-related subjects.

In addition to the nursing degree, they also need to be licensed as registered nurses (RN) in their state.

The licensure process typically involves passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) after completion of a nursing program.

Some positions may require Environmental Health Nurses to obtain a master’s degree in public health, environmental health, or a related field.

Environmental Health Nurses may also seek certification as a Certified Occupational Health Nurse or a Certified Occupational Health Nurse-Specialist, which typically requires additional education and experience, and passing an examination.

Continuing education is crucial in this role, to stay updated on the latest environmental health issues and nursing techniques.

Lastly, practical experience in the field is highly valuable, often gained through on-the-job training or internships in healthcare facilities, public health departments, or corporations.

Skills in community education, health promotion, disease prevention, and understanding the connection between health and the environment are all highly sought after in this profession.

 

Environmental Health Nurse Salary Expectations

An Environmental Health Nurse earns an average salary of $70,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can fluctuate based on factors such as the number of years in the profession, further education, the region of employment, and the size and type of the employing organization.

 

Environmental Health Nurse Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Environmental Health Nurse need?

An Environmental Health Nurse should possess excellent observational skills to detect and assess health hazards in the environment.

They should be proficient in data analysis to interpret health statistics and studies.

Communication and advocacy skills are also critical for promoting public health policies.

They must also possess good problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to develop and implement health strategies.

 

Do Environmental Health Nurses need a degree?

Yes, to become an Environmental Health Nurse, one must first become a Registered Nurse, which requires a diploma, associate’s degree, or bachelor’s degree in nursing.

After gaining experience as an RN, those interested in environmental health nursing can pursue advanced degrees or certifications in public health, environmental health, or related fields.

 

What should you look for in an Environmental Health Nurse resume?

In an Environmental Health Nurse’s resume, you should look for a nursing degree and a valid nursing license.

Experience in public health nursing, environmental health, or community health is also desirable.

Additional qualifications such as certifications in environmental health, public health, or occupational health are also beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Environmental Health Nurse?

A good Environmental Health Nurse is passionate about public health and environmental issues.

They should be proactive, able to identify potential environmental health risks and take necessary action.

They should also possess good interpersonal skills to build relationships with communities and advocate for public health policies.

They need to be adaptable, as their work could take them to various environments like industrial sites, schools, or natural disaster areas.

 

What are the daily duties of an Environmental Health Nurse?

The daily duties of an Environmental Health Nurse can vary based on where they work.

Generally, they assess environmental health risks, develop and implement health strategies, and educate communities about environmental health issues.

They may also conduct research, gather data, and work with other health professionals and policymakers to advocate for public health policies.

In case of environmental emergencies or disasters, they may coordinate response efforts and provide medical care.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of an environmental health nurse.

Surprising?

It’s not just about administering care.

It’s about shaping a healthier future, one patient at a time.

With our definitive environmental health nurse job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why draw the line here?

Dig further with our job description generator. It’s your pathway to precision-crafted job posts or refining your CV to perfection.

Remember:

Every patient care scenario is part of a larger health narrative.

Let’s build that healthier future. Together.

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