Occupational health and safety specialists work to prevent avoidable injuries in the workplace. Their efforts ensure the wellbeing of their co-workers and stand as their voice to make sure health and wellbeing is not being ignored for the sake of production. Consider looking at this career if you enjoy keeping those around you safe!

Make a Difference

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A Typical Day

  • Recommend measures to help protect workers from potentially hazardous work.
  • Order suspension of activities that pose threats to workers' health or safety.
  • Investigate accidents to identify causes or to determine how to prevent them in the future.
  • Inspect or evaluate workplace environments, equipment, or practices.
  • Collaborate with engineers or physicians to institute control or remedial measures
  • Develop or maintain hygiene programs.
  • Organize educational programs regarding dangerous chemicals or other substances.
 

Recommended Credentials

Bachelor’s Degree

Education & Training

Regional employers often hire graduates of these programs.

 

Northwest Lower Michigan

 

Health Occupations — Northwestern Michigan College

Elsewhere in Michigan

 

College of Health and Science — Baker College

Explore This Career

Try it before you buy it!

Observe health and safety practices in your everyday life. For example, most of use a computer at times. Did you know there is a safe way to sit?

The Local Advantage Learning Pathway

Pathway 1

Consider joining a program such as Northwest Education Services’ Health Sciences Program to start your journey. 

 

Pathway 2

Enroll in a 2-year community college to complete your associates. NMC's Health Occupation program or a similar program is a great place to start! 

Pathway 3

Transfer to a 4-year college to complete your bachelor's degree! 

 

Sample Employers in Our Region

Click the logos below to learn more.

TIP

Contact one of these companies and ask for an informational interview, to see if you can job shadow, or to find out if they hire interns.

 

Sample Job Titles...

  • Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH)
  • Chemical Hygiene Officer
  • Environmental Health and Safety Officer
  • Environmental, Health
 

Hear It From The Pros

10-Year Job Growth Projections

0%
10-County Region
2%
Michigan
4%
U.S.

Employed Regionally

50
In 2021 (10-County Region)

Wage Range & Median 10-County Region

$48,690
$69,620 
$97,580

Annual Hires Regionally

N/A
In 2021

Other Regional Career Resources

Learn more about Occupational Health & Safety Specialists at O*NET Online.