Research Safety Professional (Chemical)

Division of Research Safety

Job Summary

Provide technical guidance to facilitate the safe conduct of research, teaching, and related activities associated with the Urbana-Champaign campus.

Research Compliance

Understand, interpret, and implement federal, state, and local regulations regarding hazardous material handling and disposal (EPA, IEPA, OSHA, IOSHA, NIH, CDC, FDA, IEMA). Determine applicability of specialized hazardous material regulations to fundamental research conducted in campus laboratories and other associated research work areas. Serve as a technical expert to researchers regarding compliance with applicable regulations and guidelines. Work with researchers to obtain necessary approvals for work with regulated materials. Ensure researchers meet the requirements of the OSHA Laboratory Standard and other relevant standards. Ensure laboratory incidents are reported to regulatory agencies as required. Audit laboratories annually, communicate findings, and track responses. Ensure storage of all regulated materials meets regulation requirements. Work with research team members and facility managers to ensure appropriate signage is in place for regulated materials and equipment. Provide guidance for the proper transport and shipping of hazardous materials. Ensure inventory requirements are met for regulated materials and equipment. Assist researchers, laboratory staff and other campus safety professionals in development and implementation of effective safety plans, which includes proper methods and practices to conduct research safely. Ensure handling and disposal of hazardous waste generated by research activities complies with the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act campus permit. Use specialized knowledge to determine the proper methods for handling and disposal conditions of unknown, potentially reactive/combustible/explosive/infectious, or mixed hazardous waste.

Research Safety

Review experimental protocols involving the use of hazardous material or equipment. Apply specialized knowledge on the reactivity of hazardous materials and mixtures to assist in procedure development.

Advise on how to handle hazardous materials by evaluating the overall risk of the process. Provide technical knowledge for proper emergency response for incidents involving hazardous materials. Liaison with local emergency responders and serve as a resource for hazardous material information. Perform incident investigations to determine causes and develop a corrective action plan. Assist new researchers with on-boarding orientations. Assist In quenching, decontaminating, or mitigating high hazards situations involving hazardous materials or laboratory procedures.

Outreach/Teaching/Communication

Develop specialized training on hazardous material handling techniques including technical guidance documents, online classes and tutorials, and other resource materials. Teach specialized classes (e.g. MatSE 492) and present training/information to large and small groups as needed. Propose and develop policies, program updates, educational tools, and data management related to hazardous material management. Provide subject matter expertise and information relating to specific research activities to compliance oversight committees. Serve as a contact point to ensure effective communication between the committee and researchers. Pursue professional development activities to expand/maintain technical expertise. Network with colleagues at other institutions, and share program information via publications, presentations, and participation in professional associations. Review literature on an ongoing basis to remain current with new procedures and apply learnings to related research support.

Administrative/Recordkeeping

Document audit findings, consultations, and other safety and compliance related activities for multiple safety programs. Supervise hourly staff, students, and interns as needed. Perform duties as needed to further enhance the mission and goals of DRS.

Physical Demands

• Standing : Occasionally

• Walking : Frequently

• Stairs : Frequently

Working Conditions

• Hazards : Frequently

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor's or Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in chemistry, chemical engineering, industrial hygiene or a closely related field. Experience involving compliance oversight with federal and state regulations relevant, but not limited to, the use of chemicals.

Specialty Factors

Bachelor’s degree chemistry, chemical engineering, industrial hygiene or a closely related scientific or technical field. One year of experience working with hazardous chemicals in a laboratory environment, examining chemical reactivity, handling hazardous waste materials, and/or providing laboratory chemical/safety/industrial hygiene support. Experience performing risk assessments in areas with hazardous materials and applying best practices for working with hazardous materials such as pyrophoric, corrosives, flammables, or toxic chemicals.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Familiarity with standard laboratory operating and safety procedures and an understanding of the research culture in a university setting. Exemplary communication, personal relations, team, and presentation skills. The ability to perform with a professional demeanor in a diverse and fast-paced work environment consisting of multiple and changing priorities, under stringent deadlines.

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 5002 - Program Coordinator position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after closing date. Salary range is commensurate with experience and qualifications.

For more information on Civil Service classifications, please visit the SUCSS web site at https://www.sucss.illinois.gov/pages/classspec/default.aspx.

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (CST) on April 14, 2023. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. In order to be considered as a transfer candidate, you must apply for this position. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment. Qualified candidates must upload a letter of which details qualifications noted above, resume and the names and contact information of three professional references. All requested information must be submitted for your application to be considered. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. For further information, please contact Erica Hanson, Human Resources, at elhanson@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, COVID-19 vaccination requirement, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal, or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu.

Requisition ID: 1016222
Job Category: Administrative
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu