How to Become a Occupational Health and Safety Specialists in Virginia
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists in Virginia earn a median salary of $81,690/year, which is 3% below the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~5.1%. After taxes and rent, a occupational health and safety specialists takes home approximately $3,727/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a occupational health and safety specialists can afford in Virginia
Becoming a occupational health and safety specialists in Virginia
Meet education requirements
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists positions in Virginia typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Virginia. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many occupational health and safety specialists positions in Virginia require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Virginia licensure or certification
Virginia may require specific licensing or professional certification for occupational health and safety specialistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Virginia Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Virginia
Virginia employs 3,820 occupational health and safety specialists. The highest concentrations are in Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk and Charlottesville.
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists salary by metro area in Virginia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk | $81K | $39.05/hr | 920 |
| Charlottesville | $80K | $38.38/hr | 70 |
| Richmond | $79K | $38.03/hr | 720 |
| Lynchburg | $75K | $36.13/hr | 100 |
| Roanoke | $73K | $34.99/hr | 120 |
| Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford | $72K | $34.76/hr | 80 |
| Staunton-Stuarts Draft | $72K | $34.38/hr | 60 |
| Winchester | $70K | $33.66/hr | 60 |
| Harrisonburg | $64K | $30.53/hr | 90 |
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists salary range in Virginia
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a occupational health and safety specialists make in Virginia?▼
The median occupational health and safety specialists salary in Virginia is $81,690 per year ($39.28/hr). This is 3% below the national median of $83,910. Salaries range from $51,520 to $127,440.
What are the requirements to become a occupational health and safety specialists in Virginia?▼
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists positions in Virginia typically require Bachelor's degree. Virginia may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Virginia licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a occupational health and safety specialists afford to live in Virginia?▼
At the median salary of $81,690, a occupational health and safety specialists in Virginia would take home approximately $5,139/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.5% 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 Virginia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for occupational health and safety specialists in Virginia are Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk ($81,210), Charlottesville ($79,820), Richmond ($79,100). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Virginia have state income tax for occupational health and safety specialists?▼
Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.1%. On a $81,690 salary, this means roughly $4,181/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.