Hey Anonymous,

It doesn’t hurt to apply and send your updated resume (indeed, LinkedIn, etc.). Even if it seems like a reach job (requiring 5-10yrs experience), most employers are flexible. That includes degrees and safety BCSP certifications as well. You have a job so you have nothing to lose. It’s kind of nice because it takes some of the pressure off. You definitely want to go ahead and accept interviews (via zoom or onsite) because you now work in the safety industry and you need to prepare yourself for what interviewers may ask you. Shake the rust off and go for it! There is no harm in taking some time to speak to the recruiter or employer’s designee via phone (usually the 1st preliminary interview) even if you don’t think the position is your first choice. Try to hang in there and take your time. I absolutely understand your position. It’s not an easy position as an EHS Manager (w/no staff) with multiple agencies to satisfy especially if the facility’s environment is in need of upgrades and implementation of a safety program/culture because you don’t want to represent that type of company. When you file regulatory reports and filings (not sure if in your job description), we as EHS/SHE/Safety Managers are usually the public contact for our employer’s company which is public information via epa.gov, etc. If your company is unwilling or dragging their feet when it comes to getting everything up to code so to speak, although your intentions are good you never know if potential employers may look back at that information online as a way to evaluate your effectiveness. That being said, don’t worry if there have been violations and you are the public contact it doesn’t take you out of the running for a job but it’s always nice to work for a company that provides the resources for basic regulatory requirements for the environment and most importantly, employee/worksite safety. Fell free to private msg me and let me know how you make out!

I’m in the same situation as well. I understand how you feel! Keep your options open. I think most employers looking for an EHS Manager look for at least 3 yrs experience (so I’ve been told). Sometimes, roughing it out is what you have to do. Although I do not know what your situation is, I can tell you this, don’t let a few bad apples get to you. I’ve experienced it myself and it’s a shame when such toxic behavior goes unchecked. Don’t let he/she or them win. I know it’s not so easy remaining calm and professional when being talked to a certain way, just remember that it’ll pass. Unfortunately, there will always be an issue wherever you go if you work in ehs. Usually, employees’ behavioral issues or hostility are completely unwarranted and for ridiculous reasons. Just remember why you got into safety. Make sure you keep your cool until you land that next ehs position. You will want a superb reference from your formative ehs years. Like I said, I’m unsure of your situation but I wanted to leave a comment and let you know YOU ARE NOT ALONE. Stay strong & fierce.

I can see I’m on the other side of the fence on how long you should stay, but if the environment isn’t good then it may be time to move on. Regarding short work stints, let’s say two years, I think there’s two sides to the story. I see the point of moving up up up, and that’s how some folks get to the top quickly. However an employer may look at the resume and see someone who isn’t likely to be a long term employee. Don’t forget that the hiring process costs an employer time and sometimes significant money.

I worked for a large defense contractor for 3.5 years right after graduating. It was in Nuclear Safety and definitely prepared me for the next big thing. I wish I could have stayed longer, as they were very good to me, both compensation wise and work/life balance. BUT- An even better situation presented itself out of the blue, and presto, I moved back. It was tough to leave the people I worked with, but the work got even better and so did the people. Whereas before I was providing over site and training for a few s and h programs, it was nice to change the situation, where now I am a one person show managing it all. I guess my advice is: do not be timid to move on, but have a good reason why. Just stating "it was toxic" is never good as I typically search within to better a situation. I would say, "I am ready for more responsibility". Be tactful and honest however to your previously employer, you may be giving them a chance to rectify the issue. Have a solution too, not just a complaint. I am a big advocate for CSP and CIH as validation, depending on your experience, but I also know it is not needed per say for the job. It looks good for lay persons, just my opinion. Its about your characteristics, leadership, and performance that is what is most sought after. Good Luck!

Just start applying to new jobs. Depending on what your company does, experience can matter as much if not more than certifications. Also talk to contractors that work with your company often. Sometimes you can get a leg up on a job posting they have just because you know someone. That's how I recently changed jobs. The environment at my job was getting toxic so i started looking with no luck. Then I talked to a Foreman of a company that worked for my previous employer and had an interview the next week. Now I work at a better company, with no toxicity, and a 20% increase in pay!

I've moved every couple years to further advance my career & early on in your career most people don't even blink that you've spent 2 years or less somewhere & moved on to advance your career. As many have stated, each move has brought an increase in salary as well as opportunity for growth in experience. Depending on what level position the job is may dictate experience required. Certifications & education help get a foot in the door & sometimes the hiring company values them enough to pay accordingly (but not always).

Work environment was super toxic, literally (we had PPE for it) at my first job. Stayed half a year (as long as I could). When I went to work and left crying everyday, I knew it was time. Our jobs are valuable, just sell yourself and dedication to the next company. Don't speak bad on the previous experience, but say you're not sure the industry or location was a fit. You're wanting to try something new and what looks like a good opportunity to do that. Wish you luck!

Sorry to hear that. I experienced this at my last job - I only stuck around for two years. It's very difficult (maybe even impossible) to fix an already toxic workplace. I would start looking for a new position before things get too bad