Workplace health and safety have become increasingly important in recent years. An aging workforce, rising rates of chronic disease, and growing concerns such as heat-related risks have encouraged employers to prioritize employee health and safety. Often, they do so through workplace wellness initiatives.
Many organizations seek healthcare professionals to design, implement and manage workplace wellness programs, leading to a growing demand for occupational health nurses. For registered nurses (RNs), this creates new opportunities to move into specialized roles focused on promoting healthier, safer work environments.
If you’re interested in advancing your nursing career, enrolling in the online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Nurse Education program from Youngstown State University (YSU) can help you get started. This guide explores what occupational nurses do, the skills required and how you can prepare for this rewarding career path.
What Is an Occupational Health Nurse?
Occupational health nursing is a specialty focused on promoting workplace health and safety. Although responsibilities vary by setting, occupational health nurses share a common goal: mitigating health risks, preventing workplace injuries, and reducing the thousands of deaths that occur each year due to job-related accidents and occupational diseases.
Nurses who specialize in occupational health work in a variety of environments. Some are employed by hospitals, providing consulting services for businesses in the community that want to launch new or improve existing workplace wellness initiatives. Occupational nurses may also teach workplace health and safety courses for executives, managers and employees.
Other occupational health nurses perform similar jobs in government agencies. Public sector nurses may also be asked to provide input on public health policy related to workplace health and safety laws and regulations.
Many occupational health nurses also work for corporations. In the private sector, they assess health and safety risk and develop and implement wellness programs to support them. They may also act as case managers, coordinating care and services for employees recovering from illness or injury.
What Are the Essential Skills for Occupational Health Nurses?
To succeed in their roles, occupational health nurses require specific skills. Some essential qualifications include:
- In-depth clinical knowledge of the most common types of workplace accidents and injuries
- Strong decision-making abilities to develop successful initiatives
- Communication skills for educating employees and management
- Thorough understanding of workplace safety regulations and public health standards
- Demonstrated leadership skills
- Readiness to collaborate in interdisciplinary settings
Some key skills, particularly those related to collaboration and communication, can be refined through practical, on-the-job experience as a registered nurse. Others, such as leadership, regulatory knowledge and strategic decision-making, are best developed through advanced education. Earning an online nursing degree can help you build high-level competencies and prepare for success in occupational health roles.
Career Outlook and Advancement Opportunities for Occupational Nurses
Demand for nurses with knowledge and expertise in corporate wellness, public health issues and consulting is expected to grow for years to come. As organizations continue to prioritize employee well-being, occupational health nurses will play a vital role in shaping healthier, safer work environments.
A career in occupational nursing offers professional and personal benefits. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual starting salary for registered nurses was $93,600 in 2024, with the potential to earn significantly more based on education, certification and leadership responsibilities. With advanced degrees and specialized experience, occupational health nurses can move into higher-earning management or consulting jobs.
Occupational health nurses may also receive comprehensive benefits packages. Plus, they typically work consistent weekday schedules, a more appealing work-life balance than many traditional nursing positions.
How to Get Started in Occupational Health Nursing
Whether you’re already a nurse or planning to become one, a career in occupational health requires a combination of education, experience and certification. Follow these steps to begin your path:
- Obtain RN education and experience: Many employers prefer candidates who hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Current RNs can earn the degree in less time through accelerated online RN to BSN programs.
- Earn an advanced degree: Expand your career and earning potential by pursuing an MSN in a relevant nursing area, such as YSU’s MSN in Nursing Education online degree.
- Gain occupational health experience: Build practical experience by working in roles related to occupational health. You may choose to specialize in health education, training, program design or public policy.
- Pursue certification: Earning specialized certifications in occupational health and safety can expand your career prospects. The American Board for Occupational Health Nurses (ABOHN) offers several relevant credentials for occupational nurses who meet experience and education requirements and pass written examinations.
How Does an MSN in Nurse Education Support Career Growth?
An MSN in nursing education degree provides a strong foundation for advancing into occupational nursing roles. These programs prepare nurses to design and lead training programs, mentor healthcare professionals, and build advanced communication and instructional design skills that translate seamlessly to workplace wellness and safety programs. Graduates are prepared to lead and improve health education initiatives in various work settings.
Online degree programs allow you to continue working while earning your degree. YSU’s online MSN in Nursing Education degree offers the flexibility to complete coursework on your schedule. The program is accredited by the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring the highest standards of academic quality.
Embark on Your Career as an Occupational Nurse
As an occupational nurse, you’ll have the opportunity to promote healthier workplaces and make a meaningful impact on employees’ lives. At the same time, you can enjoy a rewarding career with competitive pay, consistent hours and comprehensive benefits.
YSU’s online MSN in Nursing Education program offers an affordable, flexible path to advancing your career. The online format makes it a convenient option for nurses to balance work and studies while gaining the skills needed to lead workplace wellness initiatives. Explore the program details today and take the next step toward applying your nursing expertise to the growing field of occupational health.
