How do I become an Environment Health Officer?

Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) protect public health by managing environmental risks. They enforce legislation, inspect and investigate issues in food safety, public health, environmental hazards, and emergencies, ensuring safe homes, workplaces, and communities while combining regulatory responsibility with community impact.

There are a number of entry routes to the EHO profession:

  • BSc (Hons) in Environmental Health, Level 8 NFQ (QQI), from Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin)
  • BSc (Environmental Health), Level 8 NFQ(QQI), from Dublin Institute of Technology
  • BSc degree, Level 8 (QQI) from Technological University of Dublin plus a Diploma in Environmental Health from Dublin Institute of Technology
  • Diploma in Health Inspection awarded prior to 10th December 1982, and recognised by the Minister for Health
  • Possess an equivalent qualification validated by the Department of Health – for more information on this process please visit Policy Information on the Irish government website

Additional information can be found on the Environmental Health Association of Ireland website and Careers Portal

Your role with the HSE

The work of an Environmental Health Officer (EHO) is varied, dynamic, and impactful. EHOs not only enforce public health legislation but also act as advocates, identifying and addressing risks to health that may not yet be regulated but require attention.

They play a key role in inspecting and monitoring environments, ensuring compliance in areas such as food safety, drinking water, tobacco, cosmetic products, sunbeds, alcohol, and infectious disease control.

Beyond enforcement, EHOs guide, advise, and educate communities, businesses, and organisations to prevent illness and promote healthier environments. By addressing both regulated and emerging public health risks, they enhance safety, protect communities, and support overall wellbeing, combining enforcement with proactive public health advocacy.

Career Progression

There are many ways for you to progress in your career as an Environmental Health Officer with the HSE.

Career Progression Pathway:

  • Environmental Health Officer, Staff Grade
  • Environmental Health Officer, Senior

Management Pathway:

  •  Environmental Health Officer, Principal
  • Environmental Health Officer, Regional Chief

There are also opportunities available for education roles across the Health and Social Care Professions.

Further Training and Development

The HSCP Office is responsible for Leadership, Education and Continuing Professional Development of Orthoptists working in the HSE.

HSELAND is the HSE portal that offers an array of training & development opportunities delivered either online or in a classroom style setting. Information on Education and Development can be accessed by visiting the HSCP Hub on www.hseland.ie.

Other examples of professional development activities include access to excellent HSE library services, further training and educational opportunities, attendance at conferences, webinars and workshops, engaging in mentoring and supervision, keeping up with the latest information about the profession through specialised newsletters, blogs, and podcasts.

Staff benefits and testimonials

Working in a rewarding and challenging career is just one of the many benefits you’ll enjoy as a HSE employee. We offer attractive pay and benefits, professional supervision, career support and development opportunities, supportive colleagues, and an excellent quality of life.

See Pay scales – HSE Staff

Staff testimonials coming soon.

To ensure that you are informed of all vacancies please register on the HSE Career Hub for weekly job alerts.