How to become an environmental health officer

How to become an Environmental Health Officer

Becoming an environmental health officer involves a combination of education, training, and practical experience. Here are the general steps to pursue a career as an EHO:

• Obtain a Relevant Bachelor's Degree: Start by earning a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Health, Public Health, Occupational Health, Environmental Science, Biology, Chemistry, or a related field. Look for programs accredited by the National Environmental Health Science and Protection Accreditation Council (EHAC) to ensure high-quality education and eligibility for professional certification.
• Gain Practical Experience: Seek internships, co-op programs, or entry-level positions in environmental health departments, public health agencies, consulting firms, or other relevant organizations. Gain hands-on experience in conducting environmental health inspections, investigations, and assessments under the supervision of experienced professionals.
• Complete a Graduate Degree (Optional): Consider pursuing a Master's Degree in Environmental Health, Public Health, or a related field to enhance your knowledge, skills, and qualifications. A graduate degree can provide advanced training in environmental health principles, research methods, policy analysis, and program management, which can be beneficial for career advancement or specialized roles in the field.
• Obtain Professional Certification: Consider obtaining professional certification to demonstrate your expertise and competency in environmental health. The National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) offers several certifications for environmental health professionals, including the Registered Environmental Health Specialist/Registered Sanitarian (REHS/RS) credential, which is widely recognized in the field (see below).
• Gain Licensure (If Required): Some states require environmental health professionals to obtain a license to practice, especially if they conduct inspections or enforce environmental health regulations. Check the requirements of the state where you plan to work and obtain any necessary licenses or certifications to practice as an environmental health officer.
• Continue Professional Development: Stay updated on emerging issues, regulations, and best practices in environmental health through continuing education, training programs, workshops, conferences, and professional development opportunities. Engage with professional organizations, such as NEHA, the American Public Health Association (APHA), or state and local environmental health associations, to network with peers and access resources for career advancement.
• Apply For Positions: Once you have completed your education, training, and any necessary certifications or licensure, start applying for positions as an environmental health officer. Look for job opportunities in government agencies, public health departments, consulting firms, environmental organizations, and other relevant settings. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your education, experience, and qualifications for the specific role you are applying for.

Certifications
Environmental health officers can benefit from obtaining professional certifications to demonstrate their expertise, competency, and commitment to the field. Here are some prominent certifications available for environmental health professionals:

• Registered Environmental Health Specialist/Registered Sanitarian (REHS/RS): Offered by the National Environmental Health Association (NEHA), the REHS/RS certification is one of the most recognized credentials for EHOs. It demonstrates proficiency in environmental health principles, regulations, and practices, including food safety, water quality, wastewater management, vector control, and solid waste management.
• Certified Environmental Health Technician (CEHT): The CEHT certification, also offered by NEHA, is designed for entry-level environmental health professionals who support the work of REHS/RS professionals. It demonstrates foundational knowledge and skills in environmental health principles, regulations, and practices.
• Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM): Offered by the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM), the CHMM certification is designed for professionals involved in managing hazardous materials and waste. It demonstrates expertise in hazardous materials management, regulatory compliance, risk assessment, and emergency response.
• Certified Safety Professional (CSP): Offered by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP), the CSP certification is designed for professionals involved in occupational health and safety, including EHOs who work on workplace safety issues. It demonstrates expertise in safety management, risk assessment, hazard control, and regulatory compliance.
• Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH): Offered by the American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH), the CIH certification is designed for professionals involved in industrial hygiene and occupational health, including EHOs who work on assessing and controlling workplace hazards. It demonstrates expertise in exposure assessment, hazard control, ventilation, and industrial hygiene principles.
• Certified Food Safety Professional (CFSP): Offered by the National Environmental Health Association (NEHA), the CFSP certification is designed for professionals involved in food safety management and inspection. It demonstrates expertise in food safety regulations, Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) principles, risk assessment, and foodborne illness prevention.