How to Become a Occupational Health and Safety Specialists in Washington
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists in Washington earn a median salary of $98,300/year, which is 17% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a occupational health and safety specialists takes home approximately $5,050/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a occupational health and safety specialists can afford in Washington
Becoming a occupational health and safety specialists in Washington
Meet education requirements
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists positions in Washington typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many occupational health and safety specialists positions in Washington require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Washington licensure or certification
Washington may require specific licensing or professional certification for occupational health and safety specialistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Washington Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Washington
Washington employs 3,820 occupational health and safety specialists. The highest concentrations are in Kennewick-Richland and Bellingham.
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kennewick-Richland | $113K | $54.38/hr | 270 |
| Bellingham | $103K | $49.58/hr | — |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $100K | $48.17/hr | 150 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $100K | $47.93/hr | 2,240 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $97K | $46.86/hr | 60 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $93K | $44.64/hr | 200 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $91K | $43.65/hr | 170 |
| Longview-Kelso | $88K | $42.48/hr | 50 |
| Walla Walla | $84K | $40.54/hr | 30 |
| Yakima | $83K | $39.81/hr | 80 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $80K | $38.7/hr | 50 |
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists salary range in Washington
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a occupational health and safety specialists make in Washington?▼
The median occupational health and safety specialists salary in Washington is $98,300 per year ($47.26/hr). This is 17% above the national median of $83,910. Salaries range from $67,160 to $135,990.
What are the requirements to become a occupational health and safety specialists in Washington?▼
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists positions in Washington typically require Bachelor's degree. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a occupational health and safety specialists afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $98,300, a occupational health and safety specialists in Washington would take home approximately $6,462/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 21.9% 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 Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for occupational health and safety specialists in Washington are Kennewick-Richland ($113,120), Bellingham ($103,120), Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard ($100,190). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for occupational health and safety specialists?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means occupational health and safety specialists keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.