Operations Leader Technical (Biological Health and Safety)

Southern Research Institute’s Frederick facility is actively seeking a qualified individual with proven experience in administering and managing biosafety programs. 

 

This role is responsible for developing/implementing/maintaining EH&S policies/procedures in conjunction with Corporate EH&S requirements. This position oversees and/or conducts employee training for: OSHA, EPA, NIH, and CDC/USDA compliance; including but not limited to, select agent, radiation safety, hazard communication, blood borne pathogens, first aid/CPR, personal protective equipment, fire extinguisher, respiratory protection, waste disposal etc.

 

In addition, this role ensures training, medical surveillance and accident databases are maintained in addition to all safety related data for this facility. Oversees vaccination program for Special Immunization Programs and coordinate with our Occupational health physicians for all medical surveillance issues. Completes incident reports and conducts accident investigations; serves as employee point of contact for safety concerns. Researches regulatory compliance best practices; makes recommendations for improvement. Chairs the Frederick Safety Committee meetings; participates on IBC and IACUC committees. Conducts facility safety inspections and internal audits; recommends corrective measures for facility issues. Submits local, state, and federal applications, permits, approvals, etc. Compiles hazardous and radioisotope waste records and hazardous waste disposal policies; trains employees in proper shipping procedures. Develops new and revises existing safety manuals and SOPs when needed and trains employees to these documents. Complies with all Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) requirements, and study protocols.  Coordinates with outside emergency response organizations to ensure they are aware of our facility needs and issues and will provide all necessary support as required in our emergency response manuals.

 

This position also has the potential to support biosafety consulting contracts. Travel within and outside the United States may be required.

 

Qualifications include a BS degree in biology or related field and eleven plus years of related experience or MS degree and five years relevant experience.  Must have, or be able to obtain a security risk assessment.  Must have knowledge and experience in managing safety programs and training for -BSL-2 and 3 laboratories.  Knowledge of CDC’s biological safety and select agent program and the BMBL (biosafety in microbiological and biomedical laboratories), NIH Guidelines for Recombinant DNA and understanding best laboratory practices is required.  Knowledge of use of protective equipment and safety protocols related to handling hazardous materials.  Knowledge of Code of Federal Regulations (OSHA, EPA etc.) to ensure facility compliance.  Ability to work with simple databases to maintain required program documentation (training, medical records etc).

 

Work Environment & Conditions:  Individuals who will enter BSL-2/BSL-3 labs must:  satisfactorily complete medical requirements; obtain applicable vaccinations; pass and maintain in depth security and background checks, including clearance to handle select agents; wear required PPE; and must have effective communication skills.  All offers of employment (and continued employment) are subject to drug testing.

 

Apply Online: http://www.southernresearch.org, for position no. SR-02107