Occupational Health and Safety Technicians Salary 2025: $61,560 Median, Fast Growth
The median Occupational Health and Safety Technician earns $61,560 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' latest estimates. That works out to about $30 an hour. The top 10% of earners bring in over $100,160, while the bottom 10% make $46,280 or less. With employment projected to grow 8.5% from 2024 to 2034 — much faster than average — this role offers solid pay and strong demand.
How much Occupational Health and Safety Technicians earn
The national median salary for Occupational Health and Safety Technicians is $61,560, with a mean wage of $68,120. The typical range spans from $46,280 at the 10th percentile to $100,160 at the 90th percentile. These figures come from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics survey, covering approximately 30,590 workers nationwide.
- Median annual wage: $61,560
- Mean annual wage: $68,120
- 10th percentile: $46,280
- 90th percentile: $100,160
Pay by state
Where you work has a big impact on your paycheck. The highest-paying state is Washington, with an average salary of $104,910. Rhode Island follows at $84,640, then West Virginia ($81,470), Alaska ($80,760), and New Mexico ($79,490). On the lower end, Alabama averages $55,010, Arkansas $50,840, and Montana just $41,420. The national mean of $68,120 lands roughly in the middle.
How to become an Occupational Health and Safety Technician
Most technicians enter the field with a high school diploma or equivalent, though an associate degree in occupational safety or a related field is increasingly common. Employers typically provide on-the-job training. Certification can boost your prospects — the most recognized is the Certified Occupational Safety Specialist (COSS) or the Safety Trained Supervisor (STS) credential through the Board of Certified Safety Professionals. Some states require licensing for specific roles, like asbestos abatement. Experience and additional training can lead to advancement to specialist or manager roles.
- Education: High school diploma minimum; associate degree preferred
- Training: On-the-job, often lasting several months
- Certification: COSS, STS (optional but helpful)
- Licensing: Required for some specialties (e.g., asbestos)
- Advancement: Experience can lead to specialist or manager positions
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment for Occupational Health and Safety Technicians will grow 8.5% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 3,400 job openings per year, largely due to the need to replace workers who retire or transfer. Growth is driven by increasing workplace safety regulations and a focus on reducing injuries across industries like construction, manufacturing, and healthcare.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest paying state for Occupational Health and Safety Technicians?
Washington pays the highest average salary at $104,910, according to BLS data.
Do I need a degree to become an Occupational Health and Safety Technician?
A high school diploma is the minimum, but an associate degree in occupational safety or a related field is common and preferred by many employers.
How many job openings are there for Occupational Health and Safety Technicians each year?
The BLS projects about 3,400 openings per year due to growth and replacement needs.
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 Technicians data.