Jobs In Environmental Health: Everything You Need To Know

Editor's Note: At Forbes Advisor, we receive a commission from affiliate links. Commissions do not influence the opinions or ratings of our editors.

We interact with our environment every day, but not always in a healthy way. Water pollution, air pollution, dangerous vehicles and natural disasters pose risks, especially to vulnerable populations.

Environmental health work, considered part of health care, aims to identify and minimize damage from these elements. Governments, community organizations, and corporations rely on environmental workers to protect people from natural and man-made impacts.

This career can be beneficial for those interested in science and social issues. Environmental professionals have a real and tangible impact. Some of the more common environmental careers include environmental and safety technician, environmental consultant, and public health engineer.

In this article, we'll take a look at environmental health, including common career paths and resources.

What is environmental health?

Environmental hygiene is a field of health that focuses on the relationship between people and the environment. Human beings are constantly affected by the environment, both natural and man-made factors. Environmental health scientists work to prevent negative impacts on the health of vulnerable populations.

Environmental scientists identify and analyze potential risks to human health, such as poor air quality, radiation, toxic chemicals, waste, and water pollution. They work with regulatory agencies, health departments and community organizations to limit exposure and harm. These professionals must also understand how budget constraints and political issues may affect their recommendations.

Many scientists work in the field of environmental protection, collecting samples and conducting research. They also incorporate the social and political sciences into their work, create educational programs, advocate for health promotion policies, and engage with the public.

Environmental hygiene requirements

Most jobs in this field require at least a bachelor's degree in environmental health or a related subject. Some careers prefer a master's degree or higher.

To earn a bachelor's degree, environmental health professionals study a wide range of topics, including environmental regulations, infectious diseases, food safety, waste management, and public health review.

A master's student develops skills in a specific field. They may discover an interest while earning a college degree or while working in the field. Common specialties include toxicology, food systems, and air quality.

A career in environmental protection.

A career in environmental protection offers rewarding work in many sectors and specialties. Specialists generally work in government agencies, non-profit organizations and corporations. Learn more about some of the most popular environmental jobs below.

Salary information in this section was obtained from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Glassdoor, or Payscale.

health engineer

Average annual salary: About $75,900
Required Education: Bachelor's Degree
Job Description: Public health engineers work to reduce population-level health problems related to the environment or other factors. They research and analyze health risks, educate the public, improve public facilities, and advise government leaders on the best course of action. Public health engineers combine environmental, social, and political skills to limit harmful impacts on the public.

Environmental protection specialist

Average annual salary: About $66,400
Required Education: Bachelor's Degree
Job Description: Environmental health and safety specialists assess workplace hazards in environments such as factories, mines and manufacturing plants. They investigate threats and report their findings to senior professionals or company management. Environmental specialists ensure that workers can perform their work without being harmed by heavy machinery and raw materials. Specialists train employees and develop company policies.

Environmental Protection Technician

Average annual salary: $48,380
Required Education: Associate's Degree
Job Description: Environmental technicians collect and transport hazardous materials around their work sites. They audit sites, assess risk, develop safety practices and train other employees on rules and regulations. This job requires employees to be attentive, detail oriented and calm under pressure. Environmental technicians must also be strong leaders and experts in the materials used.

Environmental consultant

Average annual salary: About $61,600
Required Education: Bachelor's Degree
Job Description: Environmental consultants work in the public and private sectors to assess the risks and consequences of industry practices. They detect threats, prepare reports and advise company managers. They may work to protect factory workers from harmful exposure to asbestos or chemicals. They also assess the impact of the company's activities on the health of the environment.

Occupational Safety Engineer

Average annual salary: $100,660
Required Education: Bachelor's Degree
Job Description: Health engineers create policies and procedures that keep employees safe. They assess hazards associated with chemicals, machinery, equipment, buildings, and other factors that may cause harm to people or property. They also assess and remediate any detected threats.

Relevant qualifications include environmental safety engineers and fire prevention and protection engineers. Employers prefer engineering or environmental protection background; Finding a degree program with hands-on learning opportunities can help you with your job search.

Environmental Protection Resources

You will find many resources to help you in your environmental career. Whether you're looking for professional experience or certification, there's an organization to help.

American Academy of Environmental Scientists and Engineers®

AAEES provides continuing education, certification and resources to build credibility and accountability in this field. Students enrolled in engineering and environmental science programs can join for free.

Membership benefits include monthly webinars and networking events with AAEES members. Members also have access to the AAEES job board to find internships, contract jobs and full-time jobs.

Later in your career, you can become a certified environmental scientist or a certified environmental engineer. Each distinction offers specializations such as air pollution, industrial hygiene, hazardous waste management, and environmental toxicology.

AAEES accredits members with an appropriate degree and eight years of work experience. Depending on experience, members must pass a written and oral exam.

National Registry of Environmental Professionals® (NREP SM)

NREP offers more than 20 certifications in environmental protection. Many of these certifications are designed for professionals just starting their careers. Education requirements range from a one-year bachelor's program to a master's degree. Depending on your interests, education, and work experience, you may be able to find a certificate that demonstrates a highly specialized skill set.

With a master's degree and prior certification or work experience, you can become a Registered Environmental Professional®. The application costs $300 but does not require an exam.

National Center for Environmental Protection (NCEH)

NCEH is a branch of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. NCEH protects people, especially vulnerable groups such as children and people with disabilities, from environmental hazards. The organization conducts research, advises government leaders and implements harm reduction measures around the world.

NCEH offers students and professionals a variety of online and in-person learning resources on all aspects of environmental health. The website also lists scholarships and internship opportunities at NCEH.

National Environmental Health Association (NEHA)

A trusted resource for emerging environmental health professionals, NEHA offers internship and fellowship opportunities, courses and certifications, online education, and information on a variety of initiatives.

Permanent membership is open to environmentalists for an annual fee of $100. Students and early professionals can join for $25 per year. Benefits include the annual conference, webinars and access to the NEHA online community.

Members also receive discounts on NEHA credentials, including their Principal Registered Environmental Health Professional. The certificate is open to graduates of environmental health programs and those with appropriate coursework and work experience. Applicants must pass an exam and complete continuing education to maintain their credentials.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about environmental careers.

What skills are needed for environmental health?

A career in environmental protection requires knowledge in biological and environmental sciences, public health, and political and social sciences.

What degree of environmental protection do you need?

You can find a job in the environmental health field without earning a specific degree in environmental health. A bachelor's degree in public health, environmental science, environmental engineering, or a related field can also provide the breadth of knowledge needed for this career.

A career in environmental protection.