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Poison Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Poison information

See Tennessee salary details

$13.6K

$219K

$351.2K

How much do poison jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for poison in Tennessee is $219,004.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $181,500.00 and $272,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a poison?

A Poison job typically refers to a role dealing with toxic substances, such as a toxicologist, hazardous materials specialist, or poison control expert. These professionals assess, manage, and mitigate risks associated with dangerous chemicals or substances. They may work in healthcare, research, or environmental protection to prevent and treat poisoning cases.

What is the difference between Poison vs Toxicologist?

AspectPoisonToxicologist
CredentialsNo formal credentials requiredTypically requires a degree in toxicology, chemistry, or related field
Work EnvironmentAccidental exposure, environmental hazardsLaboratories, research facilities, regulatory agencies
Industry UsageRefers to harmful substances or agentsProfessionals studying and assessing poisons and toxins

Poison is a harmful substance that can cause injury or death, often encountered accidentally. A toxicologist, on the other hand, is a professional who studies poisons and toxins to understand their effects, develop safety standards, and assist in poisonings or exposures. While poison describes the substance, toxicologist refers to the expert working with such substances.

What qualifications do you need to work at poison control?

To work at poison control centers, candidates typically need a background in healthcare, such as a nursing degree, pharmacy license, or medical training, along with strong communication skills. Certification in poison information or toxicology is often preferred, and relevant experience in emergency or clinical settings is beneficial.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a poison control specialist?

To thrive as a Poison Control Specialist, you generally need a background in pharmacy, nursing, or toxicology, often with a relevant degree and certification such as the Certified Specialist in Poison Information (CSPI). Familiarity with poison databases, electronic health records, and specialized toxicology software is typically required. Strong communication, critical thinking, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are crucial soft skills. These qualifications enable specialists to assess emergencies accurately, provide vital guidance, and ensure public health safety in urgent situations.

What is a poison control specialist?

Poison control specialists are healthcare professionals trained to provide advice and assistance in cases of exposure to poisonous substances. They work at poison control centers and can help assess the severity of exposure, recommend treatment steps, and determine if medical attention is needed. These experts are usually nurses, pharmacists, or physicians with specialized training in toxicology, and their guidance can be crucial in preventing serious harm or complications.
Infographic showing various Poison job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% As Needed, and 87% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $219,004 per year, or $105.3 per hour.

Physician Emergency Med-Medical Toxicology - Competitive Salary

Vanderbilt University Medical Center

Nashville, TN • On-site

Other

Re-posted 13 days ago


Vanderbilt University Medical Center rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 253 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

186th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Position Overview

The Department of Emergency Medicine at Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) invites applications for full-time faculty positions in Emergency Medicine with a focus on Medical Toxicology. We welcome candidates at all academic ranks who are passionate about delivering exceptional patient-centered care and advancing the field of toxicology through clinical service, education, and research.

We seek individuals who embody the values of excellence, integrity, humility, and patient-centeredness. Ideal candidates will be board-certified or board-eligible in Emergency Medicine and have completed or are completing fellowship training in Medical Toxicology. A demonstrated commitment to academic medicine, whether in education, research, or clinical operations, is highly desirable.

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide clinical care in VUMC’s emergency departments, including the adult Level I trauma center, the Nashville VA, and affiliated hospitals.
  • Serve on the Toxicology Consult Service, which manages approximately 200 inpatient consults annually across Vanderbilt University Hospital and Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital.
  • Participate in outpatient Toxicology Clinics, offering follow-up care and regional referrals.
  • Provide backup consultation to the Tennessee Poison Center, which handles over 52,000 calls annually across all 95 counties in Tennessee.
  • Engage in teaching and mentorship of residents, fellows, and medical students.
  • Contribute to academic research and division-specific initiatives in toxicology, education, or clinical innovation.

Qualifications

  • Board-eligible or board-certified in Emergency Medicine.
  • Fellowship training in Medical Toxicology (or equivalent experience).
  • Interest or experience in academic medicine, including clinical operations, education, or research.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

About the Department of Emergency Medicine

VUMC’s Department of Emergency Medicine is a national leader in clinical care, education, and research. With over 100 faculty members across six divisions - Operations, EMS, Global Emergency Medicine, Research, Simulation, and Ultrasound. The department provides care to more than 200,000 patients annually.

The department is home to one of the most productive emergency care research divisions in the world, with over 100 peer-reviewed publications annually and a top national ranking in NIH funding. Educational programs include a highly regarded residency, multiple fellowships, and top-rated medical student rotations.

About Vanderbilt University Medical Center

Vanderbilt University Medical Center is a premier academic medical institution consistently ranked among the top hospitals in the U.S. VUMC is the largest comprehensive research, teaching, and patient care health system in Tennessee, with over 3.3 million ambulatory visits and 200,000 emergency visits annually.

VUMC is nationally recognized for excellence in patient care, research, and education, and is ranked on the U.S. News & World Report’s “Honor Roll” of Best Hospitals. It is also the largest private employer in Middle Tennessee and a leader in biomedical research and innovation.

Vanderbilt Health is committed to fostering an environment where everyone has the chance to thrive and is committed to the principles of equal opportunity. EOE/Vets/Disabled.

International medical graduates seeking to apply for available physician positions must be certified by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG), must have passed the United States medical licensing examinations (USMLE Step 1 and Step 2), must have completed a United States based residency even if they have completed a residency or practiced medicine in another country, and must hold a current J-1 or H-1B visa.


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