Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an ever-evolving world of industries and working environments, the importance of Occupational Health and Safety Specialists has never been more critical.

With each new day, the need for experienced professionals who can identify, analyze, and prevent hazards in the workplace grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What exactly is expected from an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply interested in the world of workplace safety,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a flexible Occupational Health and Safety Specialist job description template, designed for quick and easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive in.

Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Occupational Health and Safety Specialists apply their knowledge of health and safety procedures to ensure that workplaces comply with health and safety laws and regulations.

They identify hazards and evaluate risks to reduce or eliminate workplace accidents and illnesses.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Inspect and evaluate workplace environments, equipment, and practices to ensure they follow safety standards and government regulations
• Carry out safety training programs to educate employees about workplace safety, accident prevention, and health regulations
• Investigate accidents or incidents to determine causes and handle worker’s compensation claims
• Develop and implement health and safety plans and programs
• Recommend measures to help protect workers from potentially hazardous work conditions
• Compile, analyze, and interpret statistical data related to occupational illnesses and accidents
• Conduct audits to evaluate the effectiveness of health and safety programs and policies
• Prepare reports on health and safety activities for management review
• Coordinate with engineers or physicians to institute control or remedial measures for hazardous and potentially hazardous conditions or equipment

 

Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated Occupational Health and Safety Specialist to ensure that our workplace is adhering to all relevant health and safety regulations.

The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing health and safety programs, conducting environmental and safety audits, and providing training to employees to minimize hazards in the workplace.

Our ideal candidate has a strong understanding of industrial hygiene, ergonomics, and safety regulations, and is committed to creating a safe and healthy environment for all employees.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement health and safety programs in the workplace
• Conduct regular safety audits and inspections to identify potential hazards
• Provide safety training to employees and management
• Investigate workplace accidents and incidents
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local health and safety regulations
• Recommend solutions to issues that need improvement
• Prepare and present health and safety reports

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist
• Knowledge of potentially hazardous materials or practices
• 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 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: Occupational Health and Safety Specialist
• Work Environment: Industrial setting with potential for field work and audits. Occasional travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Health and Safety Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $52,000 minimum to $88,000 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 Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Do?

Occupational Health and Safety Specialists are professionals that work to ensure the safety and health of employees in workplaces.

They are often employed by companies across various industries, governmental bodies, and consulting firms.

They are responsible for identifying and analysing various workplace hazards and ensuring that the work environment complies with state, federal, and local safety regulations.

This involves conducting safety inspections and audits, examining the workplace for environmental or physical factors that could be harmful.

Occupational Health and Safety Specialists often develop and implement workplace safety and health programs and strategies.

These programs might involve training employees on emergency procedures, safe handling of equipment, and use of protective clothing or devices.

They also investigate accidents or occupational diseases to identify their causes and find ways to prevent them in the future.

They might work closely with company management to discuss findings and propose solutions to mitigate risks.

In some cases, these specialists are responsible for maintaining and updating emergency response plans or safety policy manuals, ensuring the company is prepared for any potential health or safety concerns.

They also play a crucial role in the case of worker’s compensation claims or litigation related to workplace safety and health.

 

Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Qualifications and Skills

An Occupational Health and Safety Specialist should have a range of technical and interpersonal skills to ensure the safety and health of all employees, including:

• Knowledge of health and safety laws and regulations to ensure that the workplace is in compliance and to advise management on necessary changes
• Observational skills to monitor workplace environments and operations, and to identify potential hazards or safety violations
• Risk assessment and mitigation skills to reduce the likelihood of workplace incidents
• Communication skills to clearly articulate safety protocols and procedures to employees, as well as to deliver presentations on health and safety topics
• Problem-solving skills to find effective solutions to safety issues and concerns
• Investigative skills to thoroughly examine workplace accidents or illnesses and to determine their causes
• Report writing skills to document findings from investigations and inspections, and to provide recommendations for improvements
• Interpersonal skills to work effectively with management, employees, and external agencies such as health departments or fire departments

 

Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Experience Requirements

Occupational Health and Safety Specialists typically need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in occupational health, safety, or a related scientific field.

However, practical experience is also crucial in this job role.

Entry-level specialists often have 1 to 2 years of experience, which can be gained through internships, co-op programs, or part-time roles in health and safety departments of various companies.

They can also gain experience in related roles such as Environmental Health and Safety Assistant, Safety Coordinator, or Health and Safety Officer.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience usually have developed their skills and knowledge in entry-level Occupational Health and Safety Specialist roles.

They are experienced in conducting inspections and enforcing adherence to laws and regulations governing the health and safety of individuals.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership experience, having led safety training programs and coordinated safety investigations.

They may be ready for managerial or team-lead positions, such as Senior Occupational Health and Safety Specialist or Health and Safety Manager.

In addition, some roles may require certifications such as Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH), which can be obtained after gaining a certain amount of work experience.

 

Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Occupational Health and Safety Specialists typically require a bachelor’s degree in occupational health, safety, or a related scientific field such as biology or engineering.

These programs provide comprehensive knowledge in areas such as systems safety, industrial hygiene, and environmental protection.

Some programs also include internships which allow students to gain practical experience.

Certification is highly valued by employers and is often a requirement.

Certification can be obtained through several organizations, such as the Board of Certified Safety Professionals or the American Board of Industrial Hygiene, and typically requires passing an examination after meeting certain education and experience criteria.

Many Occupational Health and Safety Specialists also opt for a master’s degree in occupational health and safety, industrial hygiene, or a related subject to further specialize their skills or to progress in their careers.

Continuing education is essential in this field to keep up with new regulations and advanced technologies.

Therefore, ongoing learning and training are integral parts of an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist’s career.

 

Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Salary Expectations

An Occupational Health and Safety Specialist earns an average salary of $74,100 (USD) per year.

The actual salary can fluctuate depending on factors such as experience, qualifications, region, and the size of the employing organization.

 

Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist need?

Occupational Health and Safety Specialists should have strong analytical skills to assess workplace environments and determine how effective safety protocols are.

They also need excellent observational skills to inspect workplaces for adherence to regulations.

In addition, they should have good communication skills to educate employees about how to improve safety and to report findings to management.

 

Do Occupational Health and Safety Specialists need a degree?

Yes, most Occupational Health and Safety Specialists need at least a bachelor’s degree in occupational health, safety, or a related field.

Some roles may require a master’s degree in industrial hygiene or a related subject.

In addition to formal education, they also need on-the-job training to understand specific regulations and inspection procedures.

 

What should you look for in an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist resume?

Look for formal education in relevant fields and any certifications such as Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH).

Experience in workplace safety inspections, hazard identification, and safety training is also important.

Other valuable experiences could be in developing and implementing safety procedures and programs, managing workplace incident investigations and maintaining safety records.

 

What qualities make a good Occupational Health and Safety Specialist?

A good Occupational Health and Safety Specialist is meticulous and detail-oriented.

This allows them to thoroughly inspect workplaces and identify hazards that others might overlook.

They should be skilled at problem-solving and decision-making to implement effective safety measures.

Furthermore, they need to be approachable and have good interpersonal skills to effectively communicate safety procedures and regulations to employees and management.

 

How challenging is it to hire an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist?

Hiring an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist can be challenging due to the specific qualifications and experience required for the role.

It is critical to find a candidate who not only has the necessary educational background and certifications but also has a proven track record in effectively improving workplace safety.

Offering competitive salaries and opportunities for professional development can help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve unpacked the true essence of being an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist.

Surprised?

It’s not just about safety inspections.

It’s about shaping a world where work and safety coexist seamlessly, one safety protocol at a time.

With our dependable Occupational Health and Safety Specialist job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready for the next step.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for crafting spot-on listings or polishing your resume to shine.

Remember:

Every safety procedure is a step towards a safer workplace.

Let’s create that world. Together.

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