Environmental Health & Safety Specialist

University of New Haven•West Haven, CT

21h

About The Position

The Environmental Health & Safety Specialist assists the Public Safety and Administrative Services Department in maintaining a safe and healthy work and learning environment across University of New Haven campuses. The role helps design, develop, implement, and oversee programs that ensure regulatory compliance and promote policies and procedures that improve campus environmental health and occupational safety. It also assists with developing, planning, and delivering environmental health and safety training for faculty, staff, students, visitors, vendors, and construction workers when applicable. The specialist investigates accidents, incidents, and near misses on University property, identifies root causes, and recommends corrective actions. The position oversees day-to-day Environmental Health and Safety program operations, supports laboratory safety and compliance, manages chemical inventory and safety data documentation, and coordinates hazardous waste handling. The minimum salary is $63,000.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Environmental Health & Safety, chemistry, biology, chemical engineering, or related sciences; a master's degree is preferred.
RCRA, DOT, and OSHA 40-hour training certifications required.
At least 3 years of experience in an academic or research laboratory environment.
Valid driver's license and ability to pass pre-employment checks required by Human Resources.
Ability to effectively use Microsoft Office and applicable applications.
Strong data management skills.
Ability to communicate effectively with a diverse campus population.
Experience applying principles and accepted practices of laboratory safety at a university or similar setting.
Knowledge of chemical, biological, and radiological handling, storage, and safety procedures.
Experience selecting and using industrial hygiene, chemical, and radiation monitoring equipment to evaluate laboratory hazards.
Familiarity with selection and appropriate use of personal protective equipment.
Ability to interpret, implement, and comply with federal, state, and local regulations and interact with agencies.
Skill in developing clear and concise technical reports and training materials.
Excellent written, verbal, and analytical skills, with strong attention to detail.
Demonstrated outstanding interpersonal skills.
Willingness to work collaboratively in support of all areas of the Public Safety Department.
Excellent organization and time-management skills.
Must be medically fit and able to wear respiratory protection.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree in Environmental Health & Safety, chemistry, biology, chemical engineering, or related sciences.
CHMM certification.
Current HAZWOPPER certification.
Experience working with a university-based population.
Public speaking and group presentation experience.

Responsibilities

Oversee and administer day-to-day operations of the Environmental Health and Safety program, ensuring compliance with University, State, and Federal policies and regulations.
Serve as a liaison with university lab managers and a resource for staff and other groups in identifying, developing, and implementing EHS programs, processes, and practices.
Assist with conducting hazard assessments to prevent or reduce environmental health and safety incidents.
Assist with accident, incident, and near-miss investigations and prepare reports outlining findings and corrective recommendations for the safety committee.
Oversee the Velocity Online chemical inventory/SDS database.
Ensure proper storage, shipment, and management of hazardous, universal, and biological waste.
Conduct and coordinate training to meet university policy and regulatory requirements.
Provide input into the design of laboratory systems and safety standards.
Develop, revise, and publish University environmental health and safety policies.
Assist Facilities with inspections, testing, follow-up inspections, and reporting for Environmental Health and Safety systems to ensure compliance.
Maintain documentation for environmental health and safety matters.

Benefits

Medical, dental, vision, and life programs for employees and eligible family members.
On-campus Recreation and Fitness Center access for employees and families.
Employee Assistance Program.
Tuition assistance for employees and eligible dependents.
Tuition exchange opportunities.
Employee discounts on products, services, and educational opportunities.
Generous paid time off programs.
Progressive paid holiday schedule, including a holiday break between Christmas and New Year's.
Four weeks of paid parental leave.
Flexible work schedules, including summer hours where applicable.