Occupational Health and Safety Specialists and Technicians Earn $83,740 Median Salary (2024)
The median annual salary for occupational health and safety specialists and technicians hit $83,740 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $40 per hour for the typical worker in this occupation, which employs 171,200 people nationwide.
Pay spans a wide range: the lowest 10% earn $51,120 or less, while the highest 10% take home $132,170 or more. Your actual paycheck depends heavily on industry, location, and experience.
How much Occupational Health and Safety Specialists and Technicians earn
The mean annual wage for the occupation sits at $89,260, pulled upward by high earners. Half of all workers make more than the median of $83,740; half make less. At $40.00 an hour (mean), these roles offer solid middle-class income. Where you work matters. Private industry often pays more than government. Technicians—who typically have less education than specialists—earn less on average, but the BLS combines both groups in its data.
- Median annual salary: $83,740
- Mean annual salary: $89,260
- Mean hourly wage: $40.00
- 10th percentile: $51,120
- 90th percentile: $132,170
- Total U.S. employment: 171,200
Pay by state
The BLS does not release state-level salary data for this specific occupation in its current projections. However, in general, states with heavy manufacturing, mining, or oil and gas extraction tend to pay more, while states with lower costs of living often pay less. For exact figures, check the BLS state data for the most recent OEWS release.
How to become an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist or Technician
Occupational health and safety specialists typically need a bachelor's degree in occupational health and safety, public health, engineering, or a related field. Technicians often enter with a high school diploma plus on-the-job training or an associate degree. Many states require certification for certain roles, especially in construction or public service. The Certified Safety Professional (CSP) credential from the Board of Certified Safety Professionals is common. Renewal requires continuing education.
- Earn a bachelor's degree for specialist roles; associate degree or diploma for technician roles
- Gain experience through internships or entry-level jobs
- Consider professional certification: CSP, OHST, or CHST
- Check your state's licensing requirements for specific industries
Job outlook
The BLS projects no specific growth rate for this occupation for 2024–2034. However, employment likely will reflect overall economic trends and regulatory changes. Industries like construction, manufacturing, and healthcare consistently need safety professionals.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest-paying state for occupational health and safety specialists?
The BLS does not release state-level pay data specifically for this occupation in its current report. Top-paying states historically include Alaska, California, and Texas, but actual figures vary by industry and year.
How do I start a career in occupational health and safety?
Most specialists earn a bachelor's degree in occupational health and safety, public health, or engineering. Technicians can start with an associate degree or diploma. Entry-level jobs and internships help build experience. Certification like the CSP can boost your prospects.
Is occupational health and safety a growing field?
The BLS does not provide a growth projection for this occupation for 2024–2034. Demand is steady across manufacturing, construction, and healthcare. Job openings arise from retirements and regulatory changes.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Occupational Health and Safety Specialists and Technicians data.