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Step 1: Complete a Degree Program

Public health inspectors may be able to find work with an associate's degree, but in many cases a bachelor's degree is required for both employment and certification. A heavy concentration of courses within the natural sciences, including biology, geology, chemistry, physics and hydrology, is highly recommended. Once their education is complete and they're hired, new inspectors will undergo an on-the-job training period.

Step 2: Gain Work Experience

Under the guidance of other environmental health professionals, public health inspectors conduct inspections and report their findings to officials. Many reports they bring in will become public. Establishments must operate by certain standards to ensure the health and safety of the public and comply with public health law and sanitary codes set by the state. Public health inspectors must apply a regimented and consistent approach to their reports.

Step 3: Establish a Work Ethic

Public health inspectors should have a passion for community service and thrive well with established rules and guidelines. Inspectors spend roughly half of their time in the field observing and applying laws and the other half of their time in an office, preparing reports and documenting findings. Inspectors are often entrusted with a variety of tasks in changing settings. Therefore, professionals must have the ability to effectively work independently to solve critical errors when found.

Step 4: Opportunities for Career Advancement

Inspectors with the required education can pass a voluntary certification exam to become a registered environmental health specialist (REHS) or registered sanitarian (RS). These credentials are offered through the National Environmental Health Association (NEHA), which also provides continuing education options for certification renewal.

Public health inspectors need at least an associate's degree in a natural science or health field, though some employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree.

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