Safety technicians play a crucial role in our everyday lives by ensuring safe environments for the manufacturing of the goods we rely on. They make a real difference by keeping workplaces safe, reducing risks, and promoting a culture of safety across industries.
As a safety technician, you’ll be responsible for inspecting and maintaining workplace equipment, machinery, and facilities to prevent hazards and accidents. This includes reviewing company policies to ensure they meet internal standards and comply with state regulations. Safety technicians also conduct tests, gather data, and often recommend or lead safety training programs. In the U.S., entry-level positions in this field offer an average salary of $62,000, with senior-level roles reaching around $99,000. In Massachusetts,
While some safety technician positions may require a degree, it’s possible to enter the field without one. Typically, obtaining a bachelor’s degree takes around four years, with an additional 1-2 years needed for certifications and relevant work experience. However, once you gain experience, there are various career paths to explore within the safety field, giving you flexibility if you decide to shift gears later on.
If you’re pursuing a bachelor’s degree, majors such as Occupational Health and Safety, Engineering, or Environmental Science are excellent choices. But if college isn’t part of your plan, there are still several ways to break into the field:
1. Self-Study and Online Learning
You don’t need a degree to build the knowledge required for a career in safety. Many resources are available for free or at a low cost. By taking online courses or reading up on key safety practices, you can gain the same foundational insights as someone who attended a 4-year program.
2. Gain Experience in Related Fields
Getting a job in a related field and shadowing an experienced safety technician is an excellent way to build practical knowledge. Shadowing gives you direct exposure to the role, helping you understand the day-to-day responsibilities and develop hands-on skills. If shadowing isn’t possible, search for internships or entry-level roles in industries like manufacturing, construction, healthcare, government, or environmental health and safety. A quick search for terms like “Safety Technician Internship” or “Entry-Level Safety Technician” on job sites can point you in the right direction.
3. Pursue Field Certifications
Safety technicians often spend their careers earning certifications to improve their skills and qualifications. By obtaining key certifications early on, you demonstrate your commitment and make yourself a more attractive candidate to employers.
With any job, most employers look for transferrable skills. Some great skills to put on your resume when applying for safety technician roles, if applicable include:
- Communication Skills
- Detail-Oriented
- Manual Labor
- Problem-Solving Skills
- Analytical Thinking
- CPR Certified
With a career as a safety technician, you’ll have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the world while securing a role in a field that offers growth, stability, and diverse career options. Whether you pursue a formal degree or take an alternative path, there are plenty of opportunities to succeed in this vital field.
Additional Resources:
Training Materials-
Home | Occupational Safety and Health Administration (osha.gov)
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health | NIOSH | CDC
National Safety Council – Save lives, from the workplace to anyplace (nsc.org)
Welcome to SHRM | The Voice of All Things Work
20 Best Workplace Safety Books of All Time – BookAuthority
Application Process – Board of Certified Safety Professionals (bcsp.org)
Certifications-
16 Best Safety Technician Certifications in 2024 – Zippia
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