EHS Director

Ocular Therapeutix • Bedford, MA

40d

About The Position

The EHS Director/Sr. Director is responsible for leading and overseeing environmental, health, and safety programs to ensure regulatory compliance, workplace safety, and environmental protection. Key responsibilities include developing strategies, creating and implementing policies, conducting risk assessments, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, and fostering a culture of safety and sustainability across Ocular Therapeutix. The EHS role often includes global responsibilities and more strategic and leadership-focused tasks, such as setting global policies and driving continuous improvement across multiple facilities. This is a new role at Ocular Therapeutix that will be initially reporting under the VP Global Quality.

Requirements

• BS/BA in Engineering, Safety, Industrial Hygiene, Environmental Science, Life Science, or a related technical discipline (MS preferred).
• A minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in Environment, Health & Safety, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Advanced knowledge of EHS Management Systems and legislation, familiarity with ISO 14001 and 45001 standards.
• Previous EHS work experience in biopharma/biotech or a related industry is required.
• Expertise in environmental programs, particularly hazardous waste management.
• Experience in chemical hazard control, chemical inventory/disposal, and laboratory design.
• Experience engaging with regulatory authorities, auditors, and other external stakeholders.
• Proven ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and senior leadership.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to use data and analytics for decision-making and program improvements.
• Strategic thinking with a results-oriented approach and exceptional problem-solving abilities.
• Adaptability in a fast-paced environment with evolving priorities.

Nice To Haves

• Professional EHS certification (e.g., CIH, CSP) is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Strategy and Policy: Develop and implement overall EHS strategies, policies, and procedures to align with business objectives and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Compliance and Risk Management: Ensure compliance with all applicable environmental, health, and safety regulations (e.g., EPA, OSHA). Conduct risk assessments, incident investigations, and inspections to identify and mitigate hazards.
• Program Management: Oversee EHS programs, which can include occupational health, process safety, waste handling, and emergency response. Coordinate efforts to prepare for emergency situations that could impact employees, facilities, or the environment. Oversee hazardous and non-hazardous waste management, including all related inspections, training, and recordkeeping.
• Chemical Safety Officer: Oversee chemical inventory and disposal, creating emergency response plans for incidents like spills, performing/provide guidance on risk assessments to minimize hazards, train personnel on safe chemical handling, emergency procedures, and use of personal protective equipment (PPE). In addition, act as a technical resource on chemical hazard control and laboratory design reviews.
• Training and Culture: Train employees on safety protocols and lead initiatives to foster a proactive culture of safety, health, and environmental stewardship throughout the Organization.
• Leadership and Collaboration: Lead EHS Team, manage departmental budgets, and collaborate with leadership and other departments to integrate EHS principles across the business.
• Performance Monitoring: Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track and improve EHS performance.
• Undertake additional responsibilities as needed to support the evolving needs of the Organization.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Industry: Chemical Manufacturing
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees