Occupational Health Researcher Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the modern workplace, the role of occupational health researchers has become increasingly important.

As workplace dynamics evolve, the demand for skilled professionals who can assess, analyze, and improve the occupational health environment grows stronger.

But what exactly is expected from an occupational health researcher?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to grasp the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of occupational health research,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable occupational health researcher job description template, designed for seamless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Occupational Health Researcher Duties and Responsibilities

Occupational Health Researchers work to ensure the safety and health of workers in various industries.

They conduct extensive research on the conditions of workplaces and the health effects these conditions can have on employees.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Conducting thorough and meticulous research on various occupational health issues and hazards
• Using statistical analysis to interpret research findings
• Designing, planning and implementing occupational health studies
• Developing strategies to prevent illnesses and injuries in workplaces
• Collaborating with other health professionals, employers, and workers to identify and address workplace health risks
• Presenting research findings to a range of stakeholders, including employers, workers, policy makers, and the general public
• Providing expert advice on occupational health standards, regulations, and best practices
• Writing research papers, reports, and other publications related to occupational health
• Applying for research funding and managing project budgets
• Keeping up-to-date with the latest research and developments in the field of occupational health

 

Occupational Health Researcher Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for an experienced and dedicated Occupational Health Researcher to join our team.

The primary responsibilities include conducting extensive research related to occupational health, analyzing data, identifying health risks in different occupational settings, and developing strategies to mitigate these risks.

Our ideal candidate will have a strong background in public health or a related field, with a focus on occupational health.

They should be able to conduct both qualitative and quantitative research, and be skilled at interpreting and presenting data.

The goal is to contribute to the advancement of occupational health safety measures and promote overall employee health and well-being in various work environments.

 

Responsibilities

• Plan, design, and conduct research related to occupational health issues
• Analyze data and interpret results to draw conclusions and make recommendations
• Identify health risks in different occupational settings and propose strategies to mitigate these risks
• Develop and implement occupational health programs
• Prepare and present detailed reports on research findings
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals and industry representatives to improve occupational health standards
• Stay updated with the latest developments and research in occupational health
• Contribute to policy development and advocacy for occupational health safety

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an Occupational Health Researcher or similar role
• Master’s degree in Public Health, Occupational Health, or a related field
• Strong understanding of research methodologies and statistical analysis
• Excellent data interpretation and report writing skills
• Strong communication and presentation skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Occupational Health Researcher
• Work Environment: Office setting with occasional field visits for research purposes. Remote work options are also available.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Occupational Health.
• Salary: Salary is based on candidate’s experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $65,000 minimum to $100,000 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, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a sample of your research work to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Occupational Health Researcher Do?

An Occupational Health Researcher primarily works in the field of public health.

They may work for government health agencies, private research firms, universities, or non-profit organizations.

Their primary role is to conduct extensive research on the various health risks that are present in different occupational environments.

They evaluate these risks and work on developing methods to reduce or eliminate them.

They collect and analyze data on work-related illnesses and injuries, then use this data to establish trends and identify high-risk occupations or work practices.

Their research often involves conducting surveys, interviews, and workplace inspections to gather the necessary data.

Occupational Health Researchers also study the effectiveness of various safety protocols and procedures and recommend improvements based on their findings.

They may also be involved in creating training programs and safety guidelines for different industries.

They collaborate with other professionals, such as occupational health physicians, industrial hygienists, and safety officers, to implement their research findings and improve the safety and health standards in workplaces.

Their ultimate goal is to contribute to the development of safer working conditions and to prevent work-related illnesses and injuries.

Their research is crucial for policy-making, enforcement of occupational health regulations, and overall improvement of workplace health and safety.

 

Occupational Health Researcher Qualifications and Skills

An Occupational Health Researcher should have the skills and qualifications that align with the role’s responsibilities, such as:

• Research and analytical skills to conduct comprehensive studies related to occupational health, interpret data, identify trends and deliver actionable insights.
• Knowledge of occupational health, safety standards, and guidelines as well as the ability to keep up with advancements and changes in the field.
• High attention to detail and organizational skills to manage multiple projects, timelines, and deliverables.
• Interpersonal and communication skills to share research findings with a diverse audience, including stakeholders, policy makers, and health professionals.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and address health risks in various occupational settings.
• Proficiency in using research tools, software, and statistical techniques to collect and analyze data.
• Medical knowledge and understanding of public health principles to propose interventions that can improve workers’ health and safety.
• Writing skills to compile research findings into reports, scholarly articles, and presentations.
• A Master’s or Doctorate degree in Occupational Health, Public Health, Epidemiology or a related field.

 

Occupational Health Researcher Experience Requirements

Occupational Health Researchers often start their journey in this field by obtaining a bachelor’s degree in public health, environmental health, or a related field, where they gain foundational knowledge and initial exposure to research methodologies.

During their undergraduate studies, they may also participate in internships or research assistant roles which provide practical experience in the field.

After acquiring their bachelor’s degree, it is common for these professionals to pursue a master’s degree or a doctorate in occupational health, industrial hygiene, or a closely related discipline.

This advanced education often includes significant research components, allowing students to acquire the in-depth knowledge and specialized skills necessary for their future role as Occupational Health Researchers.

For those aspiring to work in academia or leadership roles within large organizations, a doctoral degree combined with several years of postdoctoral research experience is typically required.

This extensive experience helps them to develop advanced research skills, expertise in specialized areas of occupational health, and the ability to lead complex research projects.

In terms of practical work experience, professionals in this field often start their careers in entry-level roles such as Occupational Health Specialist or Industrial Hygienist.

Here, they can gain hands-on experience in conducting research, analyzing data, and implementing occupational health programs.

Candidates with over 5 years of experience in the field, who have demonstrated their research proficiency through a strong track record of published studies, may be ready for senior Occupational Health Researcher roles or leadership positions within research teams.

 

Occupational Health Researcher Education and Training Requirements

Occupational Health Researchers typically need to obtain a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as public health, occupational health, or environmental health.

Their degree program should include coursework in epidemiology, industrial hygiene, toxicology, and safety management.

Many Occupational Health Researchers further their education by obtaining a master’s degree or a Ph.D. in occupational health or a closely related field.

Those who hold a doctoral degree are more likely to lead research projects and may have better job opportunities.

Occupational Health Researchers need to have a strong foundation in research methodologies and statistics, as well as a good understanding of occupational health laws and regulations.

Some jobs may also require Occupational Health Researchers to be certified in certain areas.

For example, they may need to have a Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) or Certified Safety Professional (CSP) certification.

Continued education is crucial in this field to keep up with the latest research and developments in occupational health.

 

Occupational Health Researcher Salary Expectations

An Occupational Health Researcher earns an average salary of $71,340 (USD) per year.

The actual income may fluctuate depending on factors like experience, educational qualifications, location, and the organization they are employed by.

 

Occupational Health Researcher Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Occupational Health Researcher need?

Occupational Health Researchers should have strong analytical skills to interpret data and find patterns or trends.

They should possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills for presenting findings and collaborating with other professionals.

Knowledge of research methodologies, statistical analysis, and health and safety regulations are important.

Attention to detail and problem-solving abilities are also critical in this role.

 

Do Occupational Health Researchers need a degree?

Yes, a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in occupational health, public health, epidemiology, or a related field is typically required for this role.

However, many employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree or higher.

Additional certifications or training in occupational health and safety can be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in an Occupational Health Researcher resume?

Look for a solid educational background in relevant fields and experience in conducting health research.

Familiarity with health and safety regulations, data analysis, and project management skills can be advantageous.

Check for experience in using statistical analysis software.

Any publications or involvement in significant research projects should also be considered positively.

 

What qualities make a good Occupational Health Researcher?

A good Occupational Health Researcher should be detail-oriented to accurately conduct and analyze research.

They should be curious and persistent in seeking answers to complex health issues.

Strong communication skills are essential for presenting research findings.

They must also be ethical and maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive health information.

 

Is it challenging to hire Occupational Health Researchers?

The hiring process for Occupational Health Researchers can be challenging due to the specialized skill set required.

Furthermore, the demand for professionals who can conduct health research and influence workplace policies for better health conditions is high.

Therefore, offering competitive salaries, opportunities for professional growth, and a robust work environment can attract potential candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve uncovered the hidden nuances of what it truly means to be an Occupational Health Researcher.

Surprising, isn’t it?

It’s not just about conducting research.

It’s about safeguarding the future of our workplaces, one study at a time.

With our definitive Occupational Health Researcher job description template and real-world examples, you’re well-prepared to take the leap.

But why halt your journey here?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your ally in creating precise job listings or refining your resume to absolute perfection.

Remember:

Every research study contributes to a healthier work environment.

Let’s create that future. Together.

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