What Does an EHS Coordinator Do?

The EHS Coordinator plays an essential role in ensuring that workplace operations comply with environmental, health, and safety regulations. By closely monitoring and evaluating the work environment, this position helps to minimize risks and protect the well-being of employees. The coordinator collaborates with various departments to develop and implement policies that promote a safe and healthy workplace. Through training sessions, audits, and regular updates to safety protocols, the EHS Coordinator ensures that the organization not only meets legal standards but also fosters a culture of awareness and responsibility towards environmental and health issues. This role serves as a linchpin in maintaining the balance between operational efficiency and the safeguarding of personnel and environmental resources.

EHS Coordinator Job Duties

• Develop and implement comprehensive safety and environmental policies and procedures to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Perform regular workplace inspections and audits to identify potential hazards and ensure adherence to safety standards.
• Coordinate and deliver training programs for employees on various EHS topics, including emergency response, hazardous material handling, and workplace ergonomics.
• Investigate accidents and incidents to determine root causes and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Manage the hazardous waste program, including collection, storage, disposal, and documentation, in compliance with environmental regulations.
• Serve as the liaison with regulatory agencies for inspections, permits, and reporting requirements related to environmental, health, and safety matters.
• Oversee the maintenance and calibration of EHS monitoring equipment to ensure accurate and reliable data collection.
• Develop and implement wellness programs that promote employee health and reduce work-related illnesses and injuries.

EHS Coordinator Salary & Outlook

Factors influencing an EHS Coordinator’s salary include industry sector, company size, years of experience, and specific expertise in areas like hazardous waste management or compliance auditing. Advanced knowledge in environmental regulations, risk assessment, and emergency response planning can also significantly impact earnings.

• Median Annual Salary: $76,125 ($36.6/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $122,000 ($58.65/hour)

The employment of EHS coordinators is expected to grow at an average rate over the next decade.

This growth is driven by increasing regulatory requirements for workplace safety and environmental protection. EHS Coordinators are essential for ensuring compliance, managing risks, and implementing safety protocols across industries, thus maintaining their demand amidst evolving standards and heightened corporate responsibility towards employee well-being and environmental stewardship.

EHS Coordinator Job Requirements

Education: An EHS Coordinator typically holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science, Occupational Health and Safety, or a related field, with a significant portion also pursuing Master’s Degrees for advanced knowledge. Relevant coursework includes environmental law, industrial hygiene, risk management, and safety technology. Strong emphasis is placed on understanding regulatory requirements, emergency response planning, and sustainable practices to ensure workplace safety and compliance with environmental standards.

Experience: EHS Coordinators typically come from diverse backgrounds, with a significant portion having practical experience ranging from initial exposure to seasoned expertise in environmental health and safety roles. On-the-job training is common, allowing individuals to adapt to specific organizational needs and safety protocols. Many have participated in formal training programs, enhancing their understanding of regulatory compliance, risk assessment, and emergency response planning. Experience in developing and implementing EHS policies, conducting safety audits, and employee safety training is often seen. This blend of hands-on experience and structured learning prepares them to effectively manage workplace safety and environmental standards.

Certifications & Licenses: EHS Coordinators often require certifications such as Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH). In some regions, Occupational Health and Safety Technologist (OHST) or Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST) certifications may be beneficial. No specific licenses are typically required for this role.

EHS Coordinator Skills

Hazard Analysis: EHS Coordinators employ a detailed approach to identify potential workplace hazards and assess the risks they pose. Their analytical skills, combined with a comprehensive understanding of safety regulations and industry standards, enable the development and implementation of effective safety protocols that protect all employees.

Regulatory Compliance: EHS Coordinators are responsible for ensuring that organizations adhere to local, state, and federal environmental, health, and safety laws. They continuously update and implement policies and procedures to mitigate legal risks and maintain operational compliance, requiring a thorough knowledge of current regulations and the ability to anticipate changes that could affect the organization.

Emergency Response Planning: By crafting and implementing strategies for rapid and effective responses to workplace emergencies, EHS Coordinators safeguard the safety and well-being of employees. Their work includes conducting risk assessments, developing evacuation plans, and coordinating drills to prepare staff for various scenarios, including natural disasters and chemical spills.

Waste Management: In their role, EHS Coordinators manage the categorization, handling, and disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous waste, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. They promote sustainable practices and technologies to reduce waste generation and environmental impact, aligning with legal requirements and corporate sustainability goals.

Occupational Health Standards: EHS Coordinators are tasked with ensuring that workplace environments meet regulations and guidelines designed to prevent illness and injury. They evaluate and implement health policies, conduct health safety training sessions, and monitor workplace conditions to protect employee well-being.

Safety Training Development: EHS Coordinators create tailored programs addressing specific workplace hazards and regulatory compliance needs, equipping employees with the knowledge and skills to maintain a safe working environment. Their process involves conducting risk assessments, identifying training needs based on job roles and potential exposures, and developing engaging materials for diverse audiences.

EHS Coordinator Work Environment

An EHS Coordinator typically operates within a dynamic environment that straddles both office settings and fieldwork. Their workspace is often equipped with standard office tools and specialized safety equipment, reflecting the dual nature of their responsibilities. Regular hours are the norm, though the role may demand flexibility to address emergencies or conduct training sessions outside of the traditional 9-to-5.

Dress code varies, swinging from professional office attire to safety gear when on-site inspections or incident investigations are required. The culture leans towards a collaborative and proactive approach to health and safety, with a strong emphasis on continuous improvement and adherence to regulatory compliance.

Interaction with various departments is a staple, necessitating strong communication skills. The emotional landscape requires resilience, as dealing with incidents and ensuring a safe work environment can be demanding. Opportunities for professional development are abundant, given the evolving nature of environmental, health, and safety regulations. Technology plays a supportive role, with various software tools being used for reporting and compliance tracking.

Advancement Prospects

An EHS Coordinator can progress to senior roles such as EHS Manager or Director, overseeing broader safety programs and leading larger teams. This trajectory often involves gaining experience in developing and implementing safety policies across various operational levels.

Specialization in areas like industrial hygiene, environmental management, or occupational health can open doors to niche roles within larger corporations or consulting firms. These positions focus on specific aspects of EHS and require deep knowledge in the chosen area.

Transitioning into a corporate sustainability role is another advancement path. This requires a strong understanding of environmental regulations and sustainability practices, aligning company operations with eco-friendly standards.

To achieve these advancements, EHS Coordinators should focus on gaining comprehensive experience in EHS programs, demonstrating leadership in safety initiatives, and showcasing an ability to reduce workplace hazards and ensure compliance with environmental laws.