Occupational Health Nurse

An Occupational Health Nurse specializes in workplace care, screenings, safety, and employee well-being.

Workplace safety and employee well-being are key to a healthy workforce, and Occupational Health Nurses specialize in keeping both a top priority.

This nurses assess workplace hazards, manage on-the-job injuries, conduct health screenings, and promote wellness programs tailored to employee needs.

They are often employed by corporations, government agencies, factories, and healthcare systems to bridge the gap between occupational safety and clinical care. Let's delve into the Occupational Health Nurse specialty and explore what it takes to thrive in this preventative, workplace-focused nursing role.

An Occupational Health Nurse (OHN) specializes in promoting and maintaining the health and safety of workers in various employment settings. These nurses evaluate workplace hazards, manage employee health programs, and respond to on-the-job injuries and illnesses.

Occupational Health Nurses work in manufacturing plants, corporate offices, construction sites, government agencies, and healthcare organizations. They provide wellness education, conduct health screenings, and support regulatory compliance with safety standards.

This career combines nursing expertise with knowledge of workplace safety, public health, and occupational regulations to reduce risks and improve workforce productivity.

Becoming an Occupational Health Nurse requires a combination of traditional nursing education, clinical experience, certification, and specialized training in workplace health and safety. Follow these steps to enter this challenging and rewarding healthcare career:

• Earn a Nursing Degree. Complete an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). A BSN is preferred for advanced or leadership roles in occupational health.
• Pass the NCLEX‑RN. Obtain your nursing license by passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX‑RN).
• Gain Clinical Experience. Work as a Registered Nurse (RN) in public health, emergency care, or employee health clinics.
• Obtain Occupational Health Certification. Earn the Certified Occupational Health Nurse (COHN) or Certified Occupational Health Nurse‑Specialist (COHN‑S) credential through the American Board for Occupational Health Nurses (ABOHN).
• Continue Professional Development. Stay current with OSHA standards, environmental health policies, and workplace safety procedures through continuing education.

On average, it takes 4‑6 years to become an Occupational Health Nurse, including education, licensure, and specialized certification. Professional credentials improve hiring potential and open doors to leadership roles in corporate health.

Occupational Health Nurses support employees dealing with stress, chronic illness, or personal health challenges.

Salaries for Occupational Health Nurses vary depending on experience, industry, and employer size. On average, an Occupational Health Nurse can expect to earn between $80,000 and $110,000 annually.

Average annual salary for an Occupational Health Nurse:

• Entry‑level: $80,000 - $90,000 per year.
• Mid‑career: $90,000 - $100,000 per year.
• Experienced: $100,000 - $110,000 per year.

The U.S. Department of Labor includes Occupational Health Nurses under registered nursing roles, with an average hourly wage of approximately $42.00 per hour. Assuming a 40‑hour workweek, this equates to an annual salary of $87,360. The lowest 10% earn less than $36.00 per hour, while the highest 10% earn more than $50.00 per hour, resulting in a salary range of $74,880 to $104,000 per year.

Occupational Health Nurses focus on the health and safety of employees in a workplace environment. They assess risks, treat workplace injuries, and promote wellness among staff.

The most common job duties of an Occupational Health Nurse:

• Conducting Workplace Assessments. Evaluate work environments for potential hazards and…