Environmental Health Specialist

To be a successful Environmental Health Specialist you should…

• have an ability and a strong interest in science
• have the ability to follow a problem to conclusion
• have the ability to work with a variety of people
• have the ability to work with governmental regulations
• have the ability to think logically
• have the ability to speak and write effectively
• have the ability to exercise patience, flexibility, and a
• be willing to work in different locations under a variety of conditions

What will my job be like?

Environmental health specialists conduct research or perform investigations for the purpose of identifying, diminishing, and/or eliminating sources of pollutants and hazards that affect either the environment or the health of the population. They may collect, synthesize, study, report, and take action based on data derived from measurements or observations of air, food, soil, water, and other sources.

Environmental Health Specialists may specialize in the following:

• Air and Water Pollution
• Food Protection
• Hazardous Waste Disposal
• Milk and Dairy Production
• Occupational Health

Where could I work?

Some environmental health specialists work as inspectors for state and local health departments, wildlife parks, hospitals, private industry, and non-profit organizations.

What is the average annual salary?

$73,200

What is the future of this career?

Employment of environmental scientists and specialists is projected to grow 8 percent from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations according the BLS.

About 9,400 openings for environmental scientists and specialists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

What type of education and/or training do I need?

Environmental health specialists begin with an associate or bachelor’s degree. Environmental health specialists involved in research, administration, environmental protection, and resource management earn at least a master’s degree, and some earn doctoral degrees in areas such as water resources engineering, air and industrial hygiene, environmental management, and related fields.

Where can I get the education and/or training?

• Eastern Connecticut State University, Willimantic
• Fairfield University, Fairfield
• Gateway Community College, New Haven
• Middlesex Community College, Middletown
• Mitchell College, New London
• Naugatuck Valley Community College, Waterbury
• Northwestern Connecticut Community College, Winsted
• Quinnipiac University, Hamden
• Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven
• Three Rivers Community College, Norwich
• Trinity College, Hartford
• University of Connecticut, Storrs
• University of New Haven, West Haven
• University of St. Joseph, West Hartford
• Wesleyan University, Middletown
• Yale University, New Haven

Do I need a license or certification for this career?

Licensure is required in the state of Connecticut. Please visit the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health website for more information.

Where can I get more information?