Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Salary in Illinois
The median occupational health & safety specialist salary in Illinois is $74,803 per year, which is 5% below the national median of $78,740.
Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Salary Overview in Illinois (2026)
Illinois ranks #24 out of 50 states for occupational health & safety specialist compensation. Illinois falls in the middle of the pack for occupational health & safety specialist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $74,803 per year, occupational health & safety specialists in Illinois earn $3,937 less than the national median of $78,740.
Illinois's cost of living is near the national average at 95%, meaning occupational health & safety specialist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Illinois is significant: occupational health & safety specialists at the 10th percentile earn $45,600, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $115,900 — a $70,300 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Illinois for this role is Naperville, where the median reaches $85,039.
Nationally, occupational health & safety specialist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for occupational health & safety specialists across the country.
Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Salary in Illinois by Experience
In Illinois, an entry-level occupational health & safety specialist earns around $47,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $112,100 per year. The cost of living index in Illinois is 95% of the national average.
Build Wealth on Your Income
With a $74,803 income, financial advisors recommend investing 15–20% annually. Start building a diversified portfolio with as little as $10.
See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Illinois
| Percentile | IL Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $45,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $58,900 |
| Median (50th) | $74,803 |
| 75th Percentile | $95,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $115,900 |
Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Salary by City in Illinois
The largest employment areas for occupational health & safety specialists in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, and Rockford. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Occupational Health & Safety Specialist in Illinois
Education
Most occupational health & safety specialist positions require a bachelor's degree. Illinois has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Illinois
Nationally, occupational health & safety specialist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Illinois's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Occupational Health & Safety Specialists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $37,297 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Roles in Illinois?
Get matched with recruiters hiring occupational health & safety specialists in Illinois at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: