How to Become a Occupational Health and Safety Specialists in California
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists in California earn a median salary of $99,530/year, which is 19% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~5.4%. After taxes and rent, a occupational health and safety specialists takes home approximately $4,672/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a occupational health and safety specialists can afford in California
Becoming a occupational health and safety specialists in California
Meet education requirements
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many occupational health and safety specialists positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for occupational health and safety specialistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 14,600 occupational health and safety specialists. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $132K | $63.57/hr | 960 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $126K | $60.38/hr | 1,850 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $102K | $49/hr | 80 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $101K | $48.59/hr | 810 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $101K | $48.43/hr | 100 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $100K | $48.19/hr | 160 |
| Vallejo | $100K | $48.08/hr | 150 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $99K | $47.46/hr | 5,600 |
| Napa | $98K | $47.17/hr | 40 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $97K | $46.78/hr | 1,260 |
| Modesto | $95K | $45.83/hr | 130 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $95K | $45.77/hr | 250 |
| Redding | $94K | $45.02/hr | 30 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $92K | $44.34/hr | 1,200 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $91K | $43.69/hr | 40 |
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists salary range in California
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a occupational health and safety specialists make in California?▼
The median occupational health and safety specialists salary in California is $99,530 per year ($47.85/hr). This is 19% above the national median of $83,910. Salaries range from $56,130 to $154,340.
What are the requirements to become a occupational health and safety specialists in California?▼
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a occupational health and safety specialists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $99,530, a occupational health and safety specialists in California would take home approximately $6,084/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 23.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for occupational health and safety specialists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for occupational health and safety specialists in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($132,230), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($125,600), San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles ($101,920). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for occupational health and safety specialists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.4%. On a $99,530 salary, this means roughly $5,394/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.