Environmental Health Inspector

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Work Tasks

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH INSPECTORS are concerned with the preservation and improvement of the environment for the health and safety of the general public. Environmental health inspectors plan, develop, and carry out environmental health programs to protect the quality of food, water, air, and land so government standards are maintained. They investigate air and water pollution, radiation, and disease-carrying animals and insects. Environmental health inspectors check solid waste disposal facilities, medical and hazardous waste, and toxic materials handling, storage, and disposal. Inspectors also investigate land use planning.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $61,500 average per year ($29.50 per hour)
• A medium occupation (81,700 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow rapidly (2.8% per year)

Entry Requirements

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH INSPECTORS usually must have a bachelor's degree in environmental health or in the physical or biological sciences. They are trained in the applicable laws or inspection procedures through some combination of classroom and on-the-job training. High school courses in mathematics, life sciences, physical sciences, and English are recommended. In most states, environmental health inspectors must be licensed and their qualifications regulated by examining boards. You should check the examining board of your state of interest for specific information.