With EHS as a growing field, you have the opportunity to choose a career path that aligns with your skills, interests, and values. There are many roles within this broad field that allow you to have a meaningful impact through ensuring safe working conditions, protecting natural resources, and promoting public health. Whether you prefer working in a technical, administrative, or leadership capacity, there are options at every career stage.
Choosing Your Environmental Health and Safety Career Path
As an environmental health and safety (EHS) professional, you have many potential career paths to choose from, so pick what you’re passionate about. Overall, this field encompasses occupations focused on developing and enforcing procedures for health, safety, and environmental protection. Here are a few categories and their job options:
Compliance and Regulations
EHS specialists in compliance and regulations ensure organizations follow environmental and safety laws and policies. Duties may include conducting compliance audits, writing compliance procedures, and providing compliance training. Relevant roles include EHS compliance specialists and EHS regulatory affairs specialists.
Industrial Safety
Industrial hygienists aim to prevent work-related illnesses by evaluating workplace hazards like chemicals and radiation. They monitor hazard levels, determine safety controls, and develop exposure prevention programs. Positions include industrial hygienists and occupational health and safety specialists.
Environmental Protection
Professionals in environmental protection work to minimize the impact of business operations on the natural environment. They develop and oversee waste management, pollution prevention, and sustainability programs. Relevant jobs include environmental health and safety managers, environmental scientists, and environmental engineers.
Emergency Preparedness
EHS professionals focused on emergency preparedness help organizations plan for and respond to crises. They develop emergency response plans and procedures, provide emergency response training, and coordinate emergency response teams. Related roles include emergency management specialists, environmental health and safety managers, and occupational health and safety specialists.
With many possible specializations, you can pursue an EHS career path aligned with your interests and strengths. The key is finding your niche.
Professional Development Through Education and Training
To advance your career as an environmental health and safety professional, continuous learning and development is key. Formal education, on-the-job training, and professional certifications can help strengthen your knowledge and skills over time.
Formal Education
Many entry-level roles in this field require at least a bachelor’s degree, but graduate degrees can open up more advanced career opportunities. Coursework in areas like environmental regulation, industrial hygiene, hazardous waste management, and occupational health and safety will provide a strong foundation for work in this field.
Professional Certifications
Certifications demonstrate your competence and dedication to the profession. Widely recognized certifications for environmental health and safety professionals include the Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH), and Professional Environmental Health and Safety Technician (PEHST).
Online Training Courses
Another great way to receive education and training is through online courses. While they don’t hold the same weight as a degree, courses can provide additional skills and knowledge that will give you a boost in the industry. We offer various EHS training courses at Training Que, including Professional Development Training, Workplace Safety, and more.
Conclusion
As an environmental health and safety professional, there are many career paths open to you and the job outlook is strong due to increasing concerns over health, safety, and environmental issues across all industries. By following your interests and taking advantage of opportunities for growth, you can build a rewarding career ensuring the protection of people and the planet. The path you choose can have a significant and lasting impact.
