Career Center

RESEARCH HEALTH & SAFETY SPECIALIST

University of Alabama at Birmingham

To work with the Research Safety Team (RST) to support the laboratory safety program. To conduct and maintain a laboratory hazard surveillance program at UAB for those working with chemical, physical or biological hazards in a laboratory setting.

Key Roles & Responsibilities

* Conducts laboratory audits to assess compliance with current UAB policies and applicable regulatory agencies. Interviews staff and reviews lab records to assess awareness to potential health and safety risks and appropriate practices and procedures in place. Documents deviations from expectations and assists researchers and staff with corrective action plans.

* Generates correspondences concerning the outcome of the audit and provides corrective recommendations to the principal investigator. Initiates follow up audit as appropriate.

* Maintains and updates the electronic audit system and chemical inventory database. Supports the research safety program by identifying training needs and assisting with the development and delivery of laboratory safety workshops and training modules.

* Oversees the laboratory hazard surveillance program and collaborates with principal investigators to develop safety procedures and SOPs. Monitors lab activities to ensure alignment with approved research protocols and compliance with safety standards.

* Delivers safety services to laboratories, including equipment tag-out procedures, and acts as a liaison between labs and Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) teams to ensure effective coordination. Assists in developing risk-based safety plans and chemical hygiene documentation to support safe research practices.

* Assists with updates and maintenance of the UAB Laboratory Safety Manuals and EH&S website. Supports the development and delivery of research safety trainings, including hands-on workshops and instructional sessions for graduate students, teaching assistants, and other lab personnel.

* Assists in procurement, interpretation and distribution of safety information, including safety data sheets for chemical and infectious agents, to research facilities. Develops guidelines and SOPs, and interprets existing policies and regulations for the researchers. Conducts regular training for researchers on spill and emergency response, hazardous material management, and promotes safety awareness through educational materials such as posters and handouts.

* Assists in the development and presentation of research safety trainings including hands-on training at the Laboratory Safety workshop, TAs/Grad student training series, and teaches other classes as needed.

* Prepares reports for Senior Safety Officer and EH&S leadership to support safety compliance and actively contributes to institutional committees.

* Performs other duties as assigned.

Salary Range: $39,215.00 - $45,115.00

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Microbiology, Industrial Hygiene or a related field and one (1) year of related experience required. Work experience may NOT substitute for education requirement.

Licenses / Certifications / Registrations

Driving record should meet University underwriting guidelines to drive vehicle in performance of University business. Current underwriting guidelines include possession a valid driver's license, issued in the United States; at least 21 years of age; at least three years of driving experience; maintain an acceptable Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Work Characteristics

* Knowledge of environmental health and safety regulations, laboratory safety practices, and standard laboratory procedures

* Ability to conduct safety audits, inspections, and investigations, and to prepare clear, accurate, and detailed reports with findings and recommendations

* Strong problem-solving, organizational, and project management skills, with the ability to support process improvement and quality initiatives

* Proficiency with personal computers and related software applications; ability to analyze data, prepare reports, and manage electronic records

* Ability to read, interpret, and apply technical manuals, safety instructions, and regulatory guidance.

* Familiarity with basic mathematical concepts used in scientific calculations

* Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with faculty, staff, students, and regulatory agencies

UAB is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, age, disability, and veteran's status. As required by Title IX, UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.