Environmental health careers

[Pippipumpkin]

Does anyone work in this field who could provide a bit of insight. I am thinking of applying to an apprenticeship route as a career change. I currently work in a health role, but wanting a change.
I know there are a lot of different roles within environmental health, but would appreciate any insight, pros, cons etc.
I am quite analytical and have good writing skills (big chunk of my current role), have years of experience working in various very public facing roles, talking to patients etc. not so keen on direct conflict resolution/high stress day in day out, but generally seems to manage ok in these situations.
Any advice warmly and gratefully received!

Environmental health is broad, and the amount of conflict varies a lot by area. Housing standards and noise complaints tend to involve the most difficult conversations. Food safety inspections are more routine, though you do sometimes have to enforce. Pollution and air quality work is usually more analytical and desk-based, which sounds closer to what you describe.

The professional body is CIEH, and in England there's a Level 6 Environmental Health Practitioner degree apprenticeship. There are also technical officer roles that don't need the full qualification.

The best test before committing: ask your local council's environmental health team for a 20-minute chat, or a day shadowing an officer. You'll see quickly which area suits you. I have a short checklist of questions to ask in that kind of conversation if you'd like it.

Environmental Health is often a local authority job, and like all other LA roles funding has been cut for years and years. Industry roles have more of a focus on health and safety, food production, waste and ISO compliance systems. Look at the Chartered Institute for guidance.
www.cieh.org/