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Environmental health professional

Environmental health professional - overview

As an environmental health professional, sometimes described as an officer or adviser, you'll use your scientific and legal knowledge to make sure the environment is safe to live and work in. Learn more about the industry, the available opportunities and what you'll need to study to succeed.

Learn what the role involves below.

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What does an environmental health professional do?

Working as an environmental health professional can involve the study of any part of the human or natural environment. You could work in environmental protection, waste management, food standards, public health, workplace health and safety, and housing. Your work can be desk-based or in outdoor environments.

In these roles you'll typically visit indoor or outdoor sites, using a scientific approach to judge the health or safety of an environment. If needed, you'll use your technical abilities and people skills to investigate any violations of the rules. You'll have the satisfaction of protecting people and the environment, but you might experience challenging environments or conflict with other people.

What will your days involve?

Daily tasks will vary but could involve:

  • Responding to reports of pollution, unsafe working, or accidents
  • Inspecting organisations for compliance with rules
  • Monitoring aspects of the environment like water quality or noise levels
  • Collecting information about sites and creating reports
  • Protecting the health and wellbeing of animals
  • Initiating legal action and providing evidence in court
  • Giving presentations or talks at public meetings
  • Using education and advice to drive compliance

FAQs

How much can you earn as an environmental health professional?

The average salary for an environmental health professional in the UK is £35,360. Graduates start at around £22,500.

Does an environmental health professional role involve travel in the UK or overseas?

Environmental health professionals travel often within the UK, visiting different premises throughout the week. International travel is less common in these roles but there may be opportunities to work abroad.

Can you work from home as an environmental health professional?

You can work from an office or at home depending on your employer.

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