Chemists vs. Occupational Health and Safety Specialists: Who Earns More?
Chemists out-earn Occupational Health and Safety Specialists by $1K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Chemists land at $91,240 and Occupational Health and Safety Specialists at $90,150. The education gap is real: chemist programs typically require bachelor's degree, while occupational health and safety specialist programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Chemists is District of Columbia ($149,860); for Occupational Health and Safety Specialists it's District of Columbia ($111,530).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Chemists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Chemists or Occupational Health and Safety Specialists?
Chemists earn more nationally. The median is $91,240 for Chemists versus $90,150 for Occupational Health and Safety Specialists, a difference of $1K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Chemists or Occupational Health and Safety Specialists?
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists has the better 10-year outlook at 12.5% projected growth, compared to 4.9% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Chemists or Occupational Health and Safety Specialists?
Chemists typically requires bachelor's degree. Occupational Health and Safety Specialists requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Chemists get paid the most?
District of Columbia is the top-paying state for Chemists at $149,860/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Chemists vs. Occupational Health and Safety Specialists pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In District of Columbia, Chemists earn $149,860 vs. $111,530 for Occupational Health and Safety Specialists. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.