OPT Certified Industrial Hygienist Jobs
Certified Industrial Hygienist jobs on OPT are available at manufacturing firms, consulting companies, and federal contractors that routinely sponsor work authorization. Your CIH credential strengthens your candidacy significantly. Most roles qualify as STEM OPT extensions, giving you up to 36 months of authorized work experience in occupational health and safety.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Turn your commitment to workplace safety into meaningful public service - supporting Delaware employers and strengthening safe work practices across the state!
SUMMARY STATEMENT
As an Industrial Hygienist, you will support workplace health and safety by identifying and evaluating occupational health hazards across Delaware. This role includes sampling and monitoring for chemical and physical exposures; interpreting data to recommend effective control measures; and assisting employers in meeting OSHA compliance. This Industrial Hygienist position includes levels I and II; each with a certain scope of responsibility. The level I builds foundational skills in hazard recognition, exposure assessment, and technical consultation, while the level II may manage complex cases, mentor junior staff, and deliver specialized training. At either level, you will contribute to improving statewide occupational health programs through proactive consultation and outreach.
CAREER LADDER
Upon satisfactory completion of department promotional standards and job requirements, employees may be eligible to be promoted to the next level.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Essential functions are fundamental and core functions common to all positions in the class series. This is not an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, employees can complete job duties of a similar kind not specifically listed here.
- Provides technical guidance, consultation, and recommendations to employers, employees, and Safety Consultants to resolve health hazards, issues, and concerns.
- Conducts on-site inspections of machines, equipment, structures, protective devices, materials, and other activities to identify health hazards and violations.
- Performs qualitative assessments such as determining frequency and type of exposure to various hazards and impact to employee health, and evaluating employee understanding of safety and health practices, processes, and procedures.
- Uses a variety of equipment and methods to conduct quantitative testing and sampling for chemical, physical, and biological stressors; and maintains industrial hygiene equipment inventory.
- Determines effective hazard control measures and other corrective actions based on findings.
- Explains inspection findings including data evaluated and hazards identified and provides consultation for corrective action; ensures corrective action is taken by employers within the established timeframe.
- Contacts private employers to market and promote consultative programs and services offered by the Delaware Consultation Program.
- Provides training to employers or employees on various health standards.
- Prepares and submits reports that clearly and accurately document findings, supporting facts, and recommendations.
- Uses automated information systems and computer software to enter, research, review, evaluate, and report on occupational safety and health compliance data.
- Completes continuing education and reviews standards, directives, interpretations, Field Operations Manual (FOM), Consultation Policies and Procedures Manual (CPPM), and other documents to remain current on occupational safety and health laws, rules, regulations, trends, and best practices.
- Communicates and interacts effectively with people across cultures, ranges of ability, genders, ethnicities, ages, and races.
- Performs other related duties as required.
JOB REQUIREMENTS for Industrial Hygienist I
Applicants must have education, training, and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:
- Applicants must possess at least one of the following:
- Three years’ experience in conducting safety and health inspections to identify hazards or deficiencies. Note: An Associate’s degree in Health or Safety, Industrial Engineering, Chemistry, Biology, Physical Science, Environmental Health, or other related health or science field may substitute for two years of experience.
- OR Possession of a Bachelor's degree or higher in Industrial Hygiene, Health or Safety, Industrial Engineering, Chemistry, Biology, Physical Science, Environmental Health, or other related health or science field.
JOB REQUIREMENTS for Industrial Hygienist II
Applicants must have education, training, and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:
- Applicants must possess at least one of the following:
- Four years’ experience in conducting safety and health inspections to identify hazards or deficiencies. Note: an Associate’s degree in Health or Safety, Industrial Engineering, Chemistry, Biology, Physical Science, Environmental Health, or other related health or science field may substitute for two years of experience.
- OR Possession of a Bachelor's degree or higher in Industrial Hygiene, Health or Safety, Industrial Engineering, Chemistry, Biology, Physical Science, Environmental Health, or other related health or science field.
In addition to the above requirement, applicants must meet all of the job requirements below:
-
Two years' of industrial hygienist experience including evaluating data collected from health and safety inspections to identify health hazards and violations, and explaining inspection findings to employers.
-
Two years’ experience in providing consultation to resolve workplace hazards in compliance with occupational safety and health laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures.
-
One year of experience in public relations or communications such as establishing and promoting a positive image with the public and informing specific audiences using internal and external communications such as public forums, marketing, promotions or special events.
ADDITIONAL POSTING INFORMATION
The State of Delaware recognizes the value of telework and flexible working schedules. This position is eligible for Telework and Alternative Work Schedules according to the State of Delaware’s Alternative Work Arrangement Policy. More information will be shared at the time of interview.
CONDITIONS OF HIRE
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. The State of Delaware Executive Branch participates in the Federal E-Verify system where the State will provide the federal government with each new hires Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. For more information refer to our job seeker resources.
All new hires are required to report to the Statewide New Employee Orientation (SNEO) on their first day of employment. Sessions are held at designated locations in Kent or New Castle County.
BENEFITS
At the State of Delaware, we invest in our people and support them in and outside of the office. Our employees enjoy a total compensation package that far exceeds the value of their base salary. We offer comprehensive benefit plans that will give you peace of mind and security. Below is a list of benefits that are offered to eligible employees:
Health and Well Being
- Health Benefits, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance
Just In Case
- Disability Insurance, Group Universal Life Insurance
Your Future
- Retirement Benefits, Deferred Compensation
Professional Growth
- Training and Development Programs
Work Life Balance
- Paid Leave, Paid Holidays, Paid Parental Leave, Alternative Work Schedules
More Benefits
- Flexible Spending, Pre-Tax Commuter Benefits, Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
Visit Statewide Benefits for more information!
SELECTION PROCESS
The application and supplemental questionnaire are evaluated based upon a rating of your education, training and experience as they relate to the job requirements of the position. It is essential that you provide complete and accurate information on your application and the supplemental questionnaire to include dates of employment, job title and job duties. For education and training, list name of educational provider, training course titles and summary of course content. Narrative information supplied in response to the questions must be supported by the information supplied on the application including your employment, education and training history as it relates to the job requirements.
Once you have submitted your application online, all future correspondence related to your application will be sent via email. Please keep your contact information current. You may also view all correspondence sent to you by the State of Delaware in the “My Applications” tab at StateJobs.Delaware.gov.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process.
Individuals who use TDD may request auxiliary aid or service by calling (800) 232-5470 or by visiting delawarerelay.com.
If you need assistance with an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or general applicant support, you may call (302) 739-5458 or email jobs@delaware.gov.
The State of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage and seek out a workforce representative of Delaware including race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.
INTRODUCTION
Turn your commitment to workplace safety into meaningful public service - supporting Delaware employers and strengthening safe work practices across the state!
SUMMARY STATEMENT
As an Industrial Hygienist, you will support workplace health and safety by identifying and evaluating occupational health hazards across Delaware. This role includes sampling and monitoring for chemical and physical exposures; interpreting data to recommend effective control measures; and assisting employers in meeting OSHA compliance. This Industrial Hygienist position includes levels I and II; each with a certain scope of responsibility. The level I builds foundational skills in hazard recognition, exposure assessment, and technical consultation, while the level II may manage complex cases, mentor junior staff, and deliver specialized training. At either level, you will contribute to improving statewide occupational health programs through proactive consultation and outreach.
CAREER LADDER
Upon satisfactory completion of department promotional standards and job requirements, employees may be eligible to be promoted to the next level.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Essential functions are fundamental and core functions common to all positions in the class series. This is not an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, employees can complete job duties of a similar kind not specifically listed here.
- Provides technical guidance, consultation, and recommendations to employers, employees, and Safety Consultants to resolve health hazards, issues, and concerns.
- Conducts on-site inspections of machines, equipment, structures, protective devices, materials, and other activities to identify health hazards and violations.
- Performs qualitative assessments such as determining frequency and type of exposure to various hazards and impact to employee health, and evaluating employee understanding of safety and health practices, processes, and procedures.
- Uses a variety of equipment and methods to conduct quantitative testing and sampling for chemical, physical, and biological stressors; and maintains industrial hygiene equipment inventory.
- Determines effective hazard control measures and other corrective actions based on findings.
- Explains inspection findings including data evaluated and hazards identified and provides consultation for corrective action; ensures corrective action is taken by employers within the established timeframe.
- Contacts private employers to market and promote consultative programs and services offered by the Delaware Consultation Program.
- Provides training to employers or employees on various health standards.
- Prepares and submits reports that clearly and accurately document findings, supporting facts, and recommendations.
- Uses automated information systems and computer software to enter, research, review, evaluate, and report on occupational safety and health compliance data.
- Completes continuing education and reviews standards, directives, interpretations, Field Operations Manual (FOM), Consultation Policies and Procedures Manual (CPPM), and other documents to remain current on occupational safety and health laws, rules, regulations, trends, and best practices.
- Communicates and interacts effectively with people across cultures, ranges of ability, genders, ethnicities, ages, and races.
- Performs other related duties as required.
JOB REQUIREMENTS for Industrial Hygienist I
Applicants must have education, training, and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:
- Applicants must possess at least one of the following:
- Three years’ experience in conducting safety and health inspections to identify hazards or deficiencies. Note: An Associate’s degree in Health or Safety, Industrial Engineering, Chemistry, Biology, Physical Science, Environmental Health, or other related health or science field may substitute for two years of experience.
- OR Possession of a Bachelor's degree or higher in Industrial Hygiene, Health or Safety, Industrial Engineering, Chemistry, Biology, Physical Science, Environmental Health, or other related health or science field.
JOB REQUIREMENTS for Industrial Hygienist II
Applicants must have education, training, and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:
- Applicants must possess at least one of the following:
- Four years’ experience in conducting safety and health inspections to identify hazards or deficiencies. Note: an Associate’s degree in Health or Safety, Industrial Engineering, Chemistry, Biology, Physical Science, Environmental Health, or other related health or science field may substitute for two years of experience.
- OR Possession of a Bachelor's degree or higher in Industrial Hygiene, Health or Safety, Industrial Engineering, Chemistry, Biology, Physical Science, Environmental Health, or other related health or science field.
In addition to the above requirement, applicants must meet all of the job requirements below:
-
Two years' of industrial hygienist experience including evaluating data collected from health and safety inspections to identify health hazards and violations, and explaining inspection findings to employers.
-
Two years’ experience in providing consultation to resolve workplace hazards in compliance with occupational safety and health laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies, and procedures.
-
One year of experience in public relations or communications such as establishing and promoting a positive image with the public and informing specific audiences using internal and external communications such as public forums, marketing, promotions or special events.
ADDITIONAL POSTING INFORMATION
The State of Delaware recognizes the value of telework and flexible working schedules. This position is eligible for Telework and Alternative Work Schedules according to the State of Delaware’s Alternative Work Arrangement Policy. More information will be shared at the time of interview.
CONDITIONS OF HIRE
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. The State of Delaware Executive Branch participates in the Federal E-Verify system where the State will provide the federal government with each new hires Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. For more information refer to our job seeker resources.
All new hires are required to report to the Statewide New Employee Orientation (SNEO) on their first day of employment. Sessions are held at designated locations in Kent or New Castle County.
BENEFITS
At the State of Delaware, we invest in our people and support them in and outside of the office. Our employees enjoy a total compensation package that far exceeds the value of their base salary. We offer comprehensive benefit plans that will give you peace of mind and security. Below is a list of benefits that are offered to eligible employees:
Health and Well Being
- Health Benefits, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance
Just In Case
- Disability Insurance, Group Universal Life Insurance
Your Future
- Retirement Benefits, Deferred Compensation
Professional Growth
- Training and Development Programs
Work Life Balance
- Paid Leave, Paid Holidays, Paid Parental Leave, Alternative Work Schedules
More Benefits
- Flexible Spending, Pre-Tax Commuter Benefits, Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
Visit Statewide Benefits for more information!
SELECTION PROCESS
The application and supplemental questionnaire are evaluated based upon a rating of your education, training and experience as they relate to the job requirements of the position. It is essential that you provide complete and accurate information on your application and the supplemental questionnaire to include dates of employment, job title and job duties. For education and training, list name of educational provider, training course titles and summary of course content. Narrative information supplied in response to the questions must be supported by the information supplied on the application including your employment, education and training history as it relates to the job requirements.
Once you have submitted your application online, all future correspondence related to your application will be sent via email. Please keep your contact information current. You may also view all correspondence sent to you by the State of Delaware in the “My Applications” tab at StateJobs.Delaware.gov.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process.
Individuals who use TDD may request auxiliary aid or service by calling (800) 232-5470 or by visiting delawarerelay.com.
If you need assistance with an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or general applicant support, you may call (302) 739-5458 or email jobs@delaware.gov.
The State of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage and seek out a workforce representative of Delaware including race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.
See all OPT Certified Industrial Hygienist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Certified Industrial Hygienist Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Certified Industrial Hygienist
Lead with your CIH credential in every application
The Certified Industrial Hygienist designation signals professional competency that employers value highly. Listing it prominently in your resume header reduces skepticism about hiring an OPT worker and positions you as a specialized candidate rather than a generalist needing training.
Target federal contractors and large manufacturers first
Federal contractors in defense, aerospace, and chemical manufacturing regularly hire industrial hygienists and have established HR processes for OPT sponsorship. These employers file STEM OPT extension paperwork routinely and are far less likely to turn you away over work authorization concerns.
Clarify your STEM OPT eligibility upfront with employers
Industrial hygiene roles typically fall under STEM-eligible degree programs including environmental health and occupational safety. Telling employers you qualify for 36 months of OPT work authorization before needing H-1B visa sponsorship substantially lowers their perceived hiring risk and timeline pressure.
Emphasize compliance expertise relevant to OSHA and EPA regulations
Employers hiring industrial hygienists care most about regulatory compliance knowledge. Demonstrating fluency with OSHA standards, permissible exposure limits, and hazard communication regulations in your cover letter directly addresses the core value you bring, making OPT status a secondary concern.
Pursue AIHA membership and regional networking events
The American Industrial Hygiene Association connects practitioners across consulting, manufacturing, and government sectors. Regional chapter meetings introduce you to hiring managers before positions are posted publicly, and member directories help you identify OPT-friendly employers with established occupational health programs.
Apply to consulting firms that bill industrial hygiene services to clients
Environmental health and safety consulting firms maintain ongoing demand for credentialed hygienists across multiple client industries. Because client billing rates justify competitive salaries, these firms evaluate candidates primarily on technical credentials, making OPT status a smaller factor in their hiring decisions.
Certified Industrial Hygienist OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Do Certified Industrial Hygienist jobs qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Most Certified Industrial Hygienist positions qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension if your degree falls under an approved STEM field such as environmental health, occupational safety, or a related science or engineering discipline. You should confirm your specific degree program's Classification of Instructional Programs code appears on the official STEM OPT designated degree program list before assuming eligibility. If it does, you can work up to 36 months total under OPT before needing an H-1B or other long-term visa.
How do I find Certified Industrial Hygienist jobs that sponsor OPT workers?
Migrate Mate is designed specifically for F-1 OPT students and filters job listings by employers who have a demonstrated history of sponsoring work authorization. Searching for industrial hygienist roles there connects you with companies that already understand OPT timelines and STEM extension requirements, saving you time compared to cold-applying to employers unfamiliar with work authorization processes.
Will employers hesitate to hire me as an industrial hygienist because I'm on OPT?
Some smaller employers may be unfamiliar with OPT, but mid-size and large employers in manufacturing, consulting, and government contracting regularly hire on OPT. Holding the CIH credential significantly strengthens your position because it signals a level of expertise that is genuinely difficult to hire for. Employers focused on filling a specialized technical role weigh credentials heavily, which tends to reduce the friction OPT status might otherwise create.
Can I work as a Certified Industrial Hygienist on OPT if my job involves fieldwork or multiple client sites?
Yes. OPT authorizes you to work for a single sponsoring employer in a role directly related to your degree, and fieldwork conducted on behalf of that employer across client sites is permitted. You are not required to stay at a fixed office location. The key requirement is that all work is performed under your authorized employer's direction and relates to your field of study. If you change employers, you must update your OPT record with your DSO before starting the new position.
What happens to my industrial hygienist job if my OPT expires before my H-1B is approved?
If your employer files an H-1B petition on your behalf before your OPT expires and you are selected in the lottery, a cap-gap provision automatically extends your work authorization through September 30 of that year. This allows you to continue working without interruption while USCIS processes your H-1B. If you are not selected in the lottery, you would need to stop working on the OPT expiration date unless another visa option is available.