Environmental Health Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of heightened environmental awareness, the role of an Environmental Health Specialist has never been more critical.

As the planet’s health continues to be a priority, the demand for skilled professionals who can assess, maintain, and safeguard our environmental health grows ever stronger.

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

Whether you are:

• A job seeker attempting to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the profile of the perfect candidate,
• Or simply captivated by the complex dimensions of environmental health,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we unveil a customizable Environmental Health Specialist job description template, devised for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Environmental Health Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Environmental Health Specialists work to safeguard public health by identifying and analyzing environmental health hazards and working on plans to prevent, control or eliminate them.

They liaise closely with government agencies, healthcare professionals, and the public on environmental health issues.

Their primary duties and responsibilities include:

• Investigate and address health and safety concerns related to environmental health in various settings including homes, workplaces, and public spaces
• Inspect restaurants, food service providers, and other establishments for compliance with health and safety standards
• Collect and analyze samples of air, soil, water, and other substances to identify potential environmental health risks
• Prepare reports detailing inspection findings and recommend actions for remediation of violations
• Conduct educational programs and workshops on environmental health risks and prevention strategies
• Work with other health and environmental professionals to create and implement policies aimed at improving public health
• Participate in disaster preparedness activities, and respond to environmental emergencies, such as chemical spills
• Keep up-to-date with the latest research and developments in environmental health

 

Environmental Health Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

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

The ideal candidate will be responsible for inspecting businesses and public facilities for health and safety compliance, implementing strategies for environmental health management, and promoting public health.

Our Environmental Health Specialist should be skilled in risk assessment, environmental science, and data analysis.

You should also have an in-depth knowledge of local, state, and federal health regulations.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct inspections of public areas and businesses to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations
• Investigate complaints related to public health and safety
• Collect and analyze samples of air, water, and soil to determine levels of pollution or contamination
• Develop and implement strategies for managing environmental health risks
• Educate the public about environmental health risks and prevention strategies
• Prepare detailed reports of inspection findings and recommend corrective actions
• Provide technical advice to organizations on environmental health and safety issues
• Stay up-to-date with the latest research and advancements in environmental health

 

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in environmental health, biology, or a related field
• Experience in environmental health, public health, or a related field
• Knowledge of environmental health laws and regulations
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and data analysis software

 

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan
• Comprehensive health insurance
• Dental and vision insurance
• Generous paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities
• Wellness programs

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Environmental Health Specialist
• Work Environment: This role involves both office work and field work. Some travel may be required for inspections and investigations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Environmental Health Manager.
• Salary: Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Pay Range: $52,000 minimum to $75,000 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 Specialist Do?

Environmental Health Specialists work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, private companies, and non-profit organizations.

Their primary responsibility is to ensure that environmental and health standards are adhered to where we live, work and play.

They conduct scientific research and assessments to understand the impact of human activities on the environment.

This includes inspecting restaurants, sewage treatment plants, private water supplies, swimming pools, and other facilities for compliance with public health laws and regulations.

Environmental Health Specialists collect samples of air, soil, water, and other materials to be analyzed and interpreted.

They may also investigate complaints related to environmental health issues, such as food poisoning or improper disposal of hazardous waste.

In addition to conducting inspections and investigations, Environmental Health Specialists also play a vital role in educating the public about environmental health risks and how to mitigate them.

They work with businesses to develop strategies for reducing their environmental impact and with communities to promote healthier lifestyles.

Their work often involves the preparation of detailed reports and presentations, to communicate their findings and recommendations to policymakers, stakeholders, and the general public.

In some cases, they may also be called upon to testify in court about their findings.

To carry out their duties, Environmental Health Specialists must stay up-to-date with the latest research and regulatory changes in the field of environmental health.

 

Environmental Health Specialist Qualifications and Skills

An Environmental Health Specialist should have a broad set of skills and qualifications, including:

• Strong knowledge of environmental health principles and practices, including understanding of environmental risk assessment, public health, and disease prevention.
• Experience in conducting field inspections and evaluations to identify potential health hazards and to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal environmental and health regulations.
• Excellent communication skills for conveying complex environmental health information to a variety of audiences, including the general public, public officials, and other professionals.
• Strong analytical skills for interpreting data related to environmental health conditions, such as air and water quality data, and for making evidence-based decisions.
• Teamwork and interpersonal skills for collaborating effectively with other health professionals, community groups, and government agencies to address environmental health issues.
• Problem-solving skills to devise and implement effective solutions to environmental health problems.
• Ability to use various technical tools and software for environmental sampling, data analysis, and report preparation.

 

Environmental Health Specialist Experience Requirements

Entry-level Environmental Health Specialists are typically recent graduates with a degree in environmental health, public health, or a related field.

They may have gained some practical experience through internships, research projects, or part-time roles in public health agencies or environmental consultancies.

Candidates with 1 to 2 years of experience might have worked in roles such as Environmental Health Officer, Public Health Inspector, or Environmental Consultant.

They would have gained hands-on experience in conducting environmental health inspections, investigating public health complaints, and implementing environmental health policies and programs.

Those with 3 to 5 years of experience are likely to have developed their skills in areas such as environmental sampling and analysis, risk assessment, and health education.

They may have also gained experience in project management and policy development, and may be ready for roles with greater responsibility.

Environmental Health Specialists with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership experience and might have overseen large-scale environmental health projects.

They may be qualified for senior roles such as Environmental Health Manager, or for specialized roles requiring advanced expertise in areas such as hazardous waste management or water quality.

 

Environmental Health Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Environmental Health Specialists typically need a bachelor’s degree in environmental health, biology, or a related science field.

In these programs, students learn about environmental regulations, pollution control, disease prevention, and health and safety practices.

Courses may also cover subjects like chemistry, biology, toxicology, and environmental law.

Many states require Environmental Health Specialists to be licensed or certified.

The requirements for licensure or certification vary but generally include having a bachelor’s degree in environmental health or a related field, passing an examination, and completing a period of supervised work experience.

Some positions may require a master’s degree in environmental health, environmental science, or public health.

This advanced study can provide a deeper understanding of environmental health issues, research methods, and policy development.

Although not required, professional certification can demonstrate a specialist’s competence and dedication to staying updated in the field.

Certifications can be obtained in areas such as food safety, hazardous materials, wastewater treatment, or air pollution control.

Continuing education is important in this field, as environmental regulations and technologies are always changing.

Environmental Health Specialists typically need to keep up with these changes through ongoing training and professional development opportunities.

 

Environmental Health Specialist Salary Expectations

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

However, this figure can vary depending on factors such as years of experience, area of specialization, and the geographical location of the job.

 

Environmental Health Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Environmental Health Specialist need?

Environmental Health Specialists need to have strong analytical skills to identify and assess health risks in various environments.

They should also possess excellent communication skills to explain complex technical information to individuals and groups clearly.

Environmental Health Specialists should also be detail-oriented to ensure compliance with environmental health and safety regulations.

 

Do Environmental Health Specialists need a degree?

Yes, most Environmental Health Specialist roles require at least a bachelor’s degree in environmental health, biology, chemistry, or a related field.

Some positions may require a master’s degree in public health or a similar field.

Additionally, many roles also require certification from a recognized body such as the American Board of Industrial Hygiene or the Board of Certified Safety Professionals.

 

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

Firstly, look for education qualifications in the field of environmental health or a closely related field.

Check for any certifications related to environmental health and safety.

Experience in conducting environmental health assessments or audits, preparing reports and developing health and safety protocols is also crucial.

Also, pay attention to the candidate’s experience in using relevant software and tools.

 

What qualities make a good Environmental Health Specialist?

A good Environmental Health Specialist is committed to public health and safety and is always updated on the latest environmental health regulations and research.

They should be detail-oriented to ensure all potential health risks are identified and addressed.

Additionally, they should possess strong problem-solving skills to develop effective solutions for identified health risks.

Excellent communication skills are also important for presenting findings and recommendations to various audiences.

 

Is it difficult to hire Environmental Health Specialists?

The difficulty in hiring Environmental Health Specialists can vary based on the specific requirements of the position and the current job market.

Positions requiring specialized knowledge or advanced degrees may be more challenging to fill.

Employers can attract qualified candidates by offering competitive salaries, opportunities for professional development, and emphasizing the significant impact of the role on public health.

 

Conclusion

And that’s a wrap.

Today, we’ve uncovered the essence of what it means to be an Environmental Health Specialist.

Surprised?

It’s not just about analyzing environmental data.

It’s about shaping a healthy future, one environmental assessment at a time.

With our go-to Environmental Health Specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why limit yourself?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your gateway to crafting precise job listings or polishing your resume to its finest.

Bear in mind:

Every environmental assessment is a stepping stone to a healthier world.

Let’s create that future. Together.

How to Become an Environmental Health Specialist (Complete Guide)

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