OPT Industrial Hygienist Jobs
Industrial Hygienist jobs on OPT require a background in occupational health, environmental science, or a related field. Most roles fall under STEM OPT extension eligibility, giving you up to 36 months of work authorization. Employers in manufacturing, consulting, and government contracting regularly hire for this specialty.
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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 Industrial Hygienist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Industrial Hygienist Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Industrial Hygienist
Lead with your STEM OPT timeline
Industrial hygiene roles often require multi-year project commitments. Telling employers upfront that your STEM OPT gives you up to three years of work authorization removes a common hesitation before it becomes an objection.
Target OSHA-regulated industries first
Manufacturing, construction, and chemical processing companies have dedicated EHS teams and recurring hiring needs. These industries deal with compliance deadlines that make hiring a qualified industrial hygienist more urgent than administrative delays around OPT paperwork.
Highlight CIH exam progress strategically
Candidates pursuing Certified Industrial Hygienist credentials signal long-term commitment to the field. Mentioning active exam preparation in your resume or cover letter reassures employers that you're investing in a sustained career, not a short-term placement.
Quantify your sampling and assessment experience
Hiring managers for these roles want specifics: types of hazards assessed, instruments operated, and standards applied. Listing air monitoring, noise dosimetry, or ergonomic evaluations by name makes your technical competence immediately legible to EHS directors reviewing applications.
Focus on federal contractors and defense employers
Government contractors with OSHA and EPA obligations hire industrial hygienists regularly and often have established immigration compliance processes. These employers are generally more experienced navigating OPT work authorization than smaller private-sector firms.
Address OPT in your cover letter directly
A single clear sentence stating your current OPT status, your STEM extension eligibility, and your H-1B visa cap eligibility prevents misunderstandings late in the process and positions you as a candidate who understands their own authorization requirements.
Industrial Hygienist OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Does an Industrial Hygienist role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Most Industrial Hygienist positions qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension if your degree is in occupational health, environmental health, industrial hygiene, or a closely related STEM-designated field. Your employer must also be enrolled in E-Verify. Confirm your degree's CIP code with your DSO before assuming eligibility, since field-of-study alignment is what USCIS evaluates, not the job title alone.
How do I find Industrial Hygienist employers experienced with OPT sponsorship?
Migrate Mate filters Industrial Hygienist listings by OPT-friendly employers, so you're not cold-applying to companies unfamiliar with work authorization. Federal contractors, large consulting firms, and industrial manufacturers tend to have established HR processes for OPT students and are more likely to support the transition to H-1B sponsorship after your authorization period.
Can I work as an Industrial Hygienist contractor or consultant on OPT?
OPT requires a direct employer-employee relationship or a formal consulting arrangement where your DSO can verify the work is tied to your degree. Self-employment through a sole proprietorship is technically permitted on OPT but difficult to document properly. Contract-to-hire roles through staffing firms are generally acceptable, provided the underlying work clearly relates to your field of study.
What happens to my OPT status if an Industrial Hygienist contract ends early?
If your employment ends before your OPT expires, you enter a 60-day grace period during which you must find new qualifying employment or change your immigration status. Industrial hygiene roles in project-based consulting carry this risk more than permanent staff positions. Maintaining documentation of your employment history and reporting changes to your DSO promptly is essential to staying in status.
Do Industrial Hygienist roles typically lead to H-1B sponsorship?
Industrial Hygienist positions generally qualify as H-1B specialty occupations because the role requires at minimum a bachelor's degree in a specific technical field. Employers in chemical, pharmaceutical, and heavy manufacturing are accustomed to sponsoring EHS professionals. Using your STEM OPT period to demonstrate measurable impact, particularly around compliance outcomes or incident reduction, strengthens the case an employer presents when filing an H-1B petition on your behalf.