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Career Opportunities in Environmental Health

Environmental Health Student conducting research in a lab

 

Environmental Health Professionals (EHP) are committed to improving public health. Presently, there is a severe shortage of EHP across the country. Excellent jobs exist in a variety of areas. There are four important aspects to this work:

  • Food safety and nutrition
  • Housing conditions
  • The environment
  • Workplace health and safety

Although all EHP have public health at the heart of their job, they don't all work for the same sort of employer. Local authorities, suchthe agencies concerned with the protection of public health (including food, housing, health and safety, environmental/pollution control), employ most environmental health professionals. However, there are plenty of other possibilities:

  • Federal government and its agencies such as the U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS), Centers for Disease Control and Protection (CDC), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
  • Local and State government - such as local and state health departments
  • Environmental protection consultancies
  • Cruise ships
  • Military service (Coast Guard, Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines)
  • Private companies such as manufacturers - worker safety, environmental programs, etc.

And, of course, many EHP work abroad. For example, helping to provide clean, safe water, effective waste water treatment, insect vector control and ensuring safe food supplies are a major focus for international health organizations such as WHO, C.A.R.E., The Peace Corp, and U.S. AID.

Whether you choose to work in the public or the private sector you'll have excellent prospects and good salaries and working conditions.

For more information on career opportunities, visit Career Services.

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