Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Salary in Tennessee
The median occupational health & safety specialist salary in Tennessee is $70,079 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $78,740.
Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #41 out of 50 states for occupational health & safety specialist compensation. Occupational Health & Safety Specialist salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $70,079 per year, occupational health & safety specialists in Tennessee earn $8,661 less than the national median of $78,740.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $70,079 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $78,740 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Tennessee is significant: occupational health & safety specialists at the 10th percentile earn $42,720, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $108,580 — a $65,860 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Tennessee for this role is Nashville, where the median reaches $78,740.
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 Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, an entry-level occupational health & safety specialist earns around $44,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $105,020 per year. The cost of living index in Tennessee is 89% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Tennessee
| Percentile | TN Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $42,720 |
| 25th Percentile | $55,180 |
| Median (50th) | $70,079 |
| 75th Percentile | $89,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $108,580 |
Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Salary by City in Tennessee
The largest employment areas for occupational health & safety specialists in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Occupational Health & Safety Specialist in Tennessee
Education
Most occupational health & safety specialist positions require a bachelor's degree. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, occupational health & safety specialist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Tennessee'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 $34,941 over your career trajectory.
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