What does an environmental health officer do?
An environmental health officer is responsible for assessing risks and developing, enforcing and reviewing regulations and legislation related to public health. Their goal is to promote sound environmental practices and support human health. This includes ensuring safe and hygienic living and working environments for the population.
An environmental health officer usually focuses on noise control, waste management, food safety, occupational health and safety, pollution management, housing standards or environmental protection.
On a day-to-day basis, environmental health officers identify hazards and develop effective plans and strategies to combat problems and minimise risks in the aforementioned areas.
Environmental health officer skills and qualifications
To succeed as an environmental health officer, strong analytical skills, attention to detail and a thorough understanding of public health principles are essential. Employers look for individuals who can assess risks, enforce regulations and communicate effectively with the community and stakeholders.
A relevant tertiary qualification in environmental health, such as a Bachelor of Environmental Health, and accreditation or registration with Environmental Health Australia (EHA) are typically required.
To be successful in the role, an environmental health officer needs to have the following skills and aptitudes:
- excellent communication and negotiation skills
- ability to work both independently and as part of a team
- good organisational and problem-solving skills
- ability to comprehend and explain laws and requirements
- ability to be tactful and firm when communicating decisions.
Environmental health officer experience requirements
Environmental health officers don’t have to complete a traineeship as part of their studies, so they’ll mostly be equipped with theoretical experience when they start their careers. Some employers may choose to hire a more senior environmental health officer with several years of experience, especially if the role deals with more complex legislation.
A driver’s licence is a plus, as environmental health officers need to travel to different sites to perform inspections and audits as part of their job. Environmental health officers typically work in teams, so there is the opportunity to progress to team leader.
Environmental health officer education and training requirements
Working as an environmental health officer in Australia requires a bachelor degree in environmental health or a related field, such as public health or environmental management. These subjects can also be majored in as part of a three-year degree in science, health science, social science or natural science. Admission to such a degree will require the applicant to have completed Year 12 and some mandatory units, including English, maths, chemistry, physics and biology, as part of their senior schooling.
A postgraduate qualification, e.g. a Master of Environmental Health or a Graduate Diploma in Environmental Health, is not required but is pursued by many environmental health officers because it can give them a competitive edge.
Environmental health officer salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for an environmental health officer is $102,170 per year. Salary level varies depending on the employer, the location, and the candidate’s experience and qualifications.
Job description samples for similar positions
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