Occupational Toxicologist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of industrial advancement, the focus on occupational toxicologists has never been greater.

As our industries evolve, the demand for skilled professionals who can identify, assess, and manage workplace exposure to toxic substances is on the rise.

But let’s delve deeper: What is truly expected from an occupational toxicologist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of occupational toxicology,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable occupational toxicologist job description template, tailored for easy posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Occupational Toxicologist Duties and Responsibilities

Occupational Toxicologists study the harmful effects of substances on workers in different industries and environments.

They are responsible for identifying and assessing the risks posed by hazardous substances to the health and safety of employees.

They also develop measures to control and eliminate these risks.

Occupational Toxicologists have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Identify, analyze, and evaluate the harmful effects of chemical, physical, and biological agents on workers in different occupational settings
• Design and conduct toxicological experiments, studies and investigations
• Assess the exposure and risks associated with toxic substances in the workplace
• Develop and implement strategies to control and minimize exposure to hazardous substances
• Provide expert advice and recommendations on occupational health and safety measures
• Prepare reports on findings and recommendations for management, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders
• Conduct training sessions on toxicology, health risks, and safety measures for workers and management
• Advise on the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials
• Work with other professionals like industrial hygienists, safety engineers, and occupational physicians in dealing with occupational health issues
• Stay updated with the latest research and development in the field of occupational toxicology

 

Occupational Toxicologist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are in search of a dedicated Occupational Toxicologist to contribute to our team.

You will be responsible for studying harmful effects of substances on biological systems, estimating exposure risks, and developing strategies for managing risks.

Your tasks will include conducting toxicity tests, researching effects of substances on human health, and providing expert advice to promote safe working environments.

Our ideal candidate is knowledgeable in toxicology, epidemiology, and industrial hygiene, possessing exceptional analytical skills and a firm commitment to enhancing workplace safety.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluate the toxicology of substances in the workplace.
• Perform risk assessments and develop risk management strategies.
• Conduct research and interpret data related to exposure levels and health effects.
• Provide expert advice on safety procedures and regulations.
• Collaborate with other professionals to determine safe exposure levels.
• Develop and implement safety training programs.
• Prepare detailed reports and maintain records.
• Stay current with scientific literature and regulatory developments in the field of occupational toxicology.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

 

Qualifications

• A doctoral degree in toxicology or a related field.
• Proven experience as an Occupational Toxicologist.
• Thorough understanding of toxicology, epidemiology, and industrial hygiene.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Proficiency in using scientific software and databases.
• Commitment to promoting workplace safety.

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Occupational Toxicologist
• Work Environment: Primarily lab-based with some office work. Some fieldwork may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Occupational Health and Safety.
• Salary: Salary is dependent on candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $140,000 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 Toxicologist Do?

Occupational Toxicologists are highly specialized scientists who work to identify and manage the potential hazards of chemicals used in workplaces.

They study the effects of exposure to various toxic substances and determine the risk level associated with each substance.

This typically involves conducting tests, analyzing data, and interpreting the results to assess the harmful effects of these substances on the human body.

Their job also includes designing and implementing safety measures to minimize the risk of exposure to these harmful substances.

This might involve recommending the use of personal protective equipment, improving ventilation systems, or implementing stricter handling procedures.

Occupational Toxicologists often collaborate with other professionals such as health and safety officers, industrial hygienists, and regulatory affairs specialists to develop and enforce safety standards in the workplace.

In addition to their roles in the workplace, Occupational Toxicologists may also communicate their findings to the public, industry leaders, and regulatory authorities to advocate for safer working conditions and stricter regulations on hazardous substances.

They may also be required to provide expert opinion in legal cases involving occupational exposure to toxic substances.

Overall, the work of an Occupational Toxicologist is critical in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of workers in various industries.

 

Occupational Toxicologist Qualifications and Skills

Occupational Toxicologists employ a mix of scientific knowledge, practical skills and teamwork to assess the toxicity of chemicals and other substances in the workplace.

The qualifications and skills required for this role include:

• A deep understanding of toxicology, biology, chemistry, and biochemistry to identify, analyze and interpret the harmful effects of various substances.
• Strong analytical skills for evaluating scientific data and determining the level of hazard posed by various substances to human health.
• Excellent communication skills to explain complex toxicological data in a clear and understandable manner to non-scientists, such as corporate managers, workers, and regulatory agencies.
• Ability to use various lab equipment and software for toxicological analysis, testing, and research.
• Problem-solving skills to find effective solutions for reducing or eliminating toxicological risks in the workplace.
• Teamwork and collaboration skills to work effectively with other scientists, health and safety officers, and occupational hygienists.
• Strong attention to detail to ensure accuracy and precision in toxicological data analysis and research.
• Regulatory knowledge to interpret and apply current legislation and guidelines regarding the use and exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace.

 

Occupational Toxicologist Experience Requirements

Occupational Toxicologists typically require a strong foundation in the biological or chemical sciences, often achieved through a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, typically gained through internships or research assistant roles in toxicology, pharmacology, or related field.

They may also gain on-the-job experience in roles such as Laboratory Technician, Research Scientist, or Environmental Scientist.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience have often worked in industry, academic, or government positions, developing their skills and knowledge in toxicological risk assessment, exposure science, and data interpretation.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are often considered experts in their field, with extensive understanding of human and environmental toxicology.

They may have leadership experience, having overseen research projects or teams, and could be ready for a senior toxicologist or managerial position.

In addition, some organizations may require their occupational toxicologist hires to have a professional certification, such as the Diplomate of the American Board of Toxicology (DABT), which requires a minimum of 7 years of full-time professional experience in toxicology.

 

Occupational Toxicologist Education and Training Requirements

Occupational Toxicologists typically need to have a bachelor’s degree in toxicology, biology, chemistry, or a related field.

This provides foundational knowledge in understanding the harmful effects of chemicals, drugs, and other substances on living organisms.

In addition to a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree or Ph.D. in toxicology or a related discipline is often required for advanced or research-focused roles.

These higher degrees allow occupational toxicologists to specialize in areas such as risk assessment, environmental toxicology, or clinical toxicology.

Occupational Toxicologists also need to have a strong knowledge of laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and experimental design.

Training in statistical analysis and data interpretation can also be beneficial, as these skills are often used in the role.

Certification from a recognized body such as the American Board of Toxicology (ABT) or the European Register of Toxicologists can be advantageous.

Certification usually requires a certain level of education, professional experience, and passing an examination.

Continuing education is important in this field as it allows occupational toxicologists to stay up to date with the latest advancements, regulatory changes, and safety measures.

This can be achieved through professional development courses or attending relevant conferences and workshops.

 

Occupational Toxicologist Salary Expectations

An Occupational Toxicologist earns an average salary of $93,000 (USD) per year.

However, this can greatly vary based on factors such as educational background, years of experience in the field, geographical location, and the organization they are employed by.

 

Occupational Toxicologist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Occupational Toxicologist need?

Occupational Toxicologists need to have strong analytical and problem-solving skills to analyze and interpret data effectively.

They should have a deep understanding of toxicology and related disciplines, and the ability to apply this knowledge in an occupational setting.

Communication skills are essential to convey complex scientific information to non-scientific individuals.

Attention to detail and good organization skills are crucial for managing multiple projects and ensuring accurate record-keeping.

 

Do Occupational Toxicologists need a degree?

Yes, Occupational Toxicologists typically need to have a Bachelor’s degree in toxicology, chemistry, biology, or a related field.

Many employers, however, prefer candidates with a Master’s degree or Ph.D. in toxicology or a related discipline.

In addition, they should have relevant experience in occupational health, industrial hygiene, or environmental health.

 

What should you look for in an Occupational Toxicologist resume?

In an Occupational Toxicologist resume, look for a strong educational background in toxicology or a related field.

Previous experience in a similar role is also a key factor.

It’s beneficial if they have experience working with regulatory bodies, have contributed to published research, and have experience in risk assessment and management.

Professional certification, such as from the American Board of Toxicology, is also a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Occupational Toxicologist?

A good Occupational Toxicologist is meticulous and detail-oriented, ensuring accurate and precise work.

They have strong analytical and problem-solving skills to interpret complex data and make informed decisions.

They have excellent communication skills to convey complex scientific information to diverse audiences.

They should also be ethical and responsible, ensuring the safety and well-being of workers is always prioritized.

 

What is the typical work environment for an Occupational Toxicologist?

Occupational Toxicologists typically work in a laboratory or office setting, but they may also need to visit industrial sites for inspections and evaluations.

They often work with a team of professionals, including chemists, biologists, engineers, and health and safety officers.

They usually work regular office hours, but may occasionally need to work longer to meet project deadlines.

 

Conclusion

So there we have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the hidden intricacies of being an occupational toxicologist.

And you know what?

It’s not just about analyzing substances.

It’s about paving the way to a safer environment, one hazardous substance at a time.

With our easy-to-use occupational toxicologist 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 invaluable tool for creating precision-crafted job listings or tailoring your resume to absolute perfection.

Remember:

Every hazardous substance analyzed contributes to the bigger picture of public safety.

Let’s create a healthier future. Together.

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