Occupational Health and Safety Specialists: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 128,430 occupational health and safety specialists, and they earn a median of $83,910/year. The range runs from $51K to $130K. District of Columbia pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level occupational health and safety specialists start around $51K. The gap between that and the median ($84K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $130K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $116K | 270 |
| California | $100K | 14,600 |
| Washington | $98K | 3,820 |
| Rhode Island | $98K | 220 |
| Illinois | $97K | 2,280 |
| Massachusetts | $96K | 3,380 |
| Minnesota | $94K | 2,390 |
| Wyoming | $93K | 520 |
| New Hampshire | $92K | 580 |
| Alaska | $92K | 380 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a occupational health and safety specialists make?▼
The median occupational health and safety specialists salary in the United States is $83,910 per year ($40/hour). Entry-level positions start around $50,610, while experienced professionals earn up to $130,460.
What education do you need to become a occupational health and safety specialists?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for occupational health and safety specialists?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for occupational health and safety specialists.
What are the highest paying states for occupational health and safety specialists?▼
The highest paying states for occupational health and safety specialists are District of Columbia ($115,710), California ($99,530), Washington ($98,300), Rhode Island ($98,240), Illinois ($96,570). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.