Hazardous Waste Safety Specialist 1 (Safety Specialist 1)

OHSU•Portland, OR

61d•Hybrid

About The Position

This position will work in the Environmental Health & Safety Department (EHS) with duties that encompass all missions of OHSU. EHS oversees/manages programs and policies aimed at minimizing safety, health, environmental, and regulatory risks to the OHSU community. The EHS program encompasses chemical, biosafety, fire/life safety, radiation safety, as well as general safety oversight across the university. Projects and/or responsibilities in other program areas may also be assigned. This role has a specific focus on Hazardous Waste Management and reports to the Environmental Protection Manager.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.
3 years of related experience.
Valid Driver's license.
Working knowledge of requirements related to safety.
Ability to understand biological, chemical and scientific terminology in order to provide thorough and accurate review and guidance.
Experience identifying, collecting, processing, and documenting hazardous waste streams.
Experience reviewing, interpreting, and providing guidance on regulatory rules and standards.
Ability to use and maintain industrial hygiene monitoring instrumentation and supplies.
Ability to effectively work both independently and in a team environment.
Effective organizational, oral, and written communication skills.
Strong multi-tasking skills to meet multiple deadlines and complete numerous projects simultaneously.
Ability to interact in a positive, productive manner with research faculty and staff, leadership, and other staff (demonstrating sensitivity, tact, and professionalism).
Advanced proficiency with electronic systems and software.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree or additional emphasis/training/education in safety or a related scientific discipline (e.g. bachelor's degree in a related field such as biology, chemistry, or environmental science) strongly preferred.
EHS-specific experience at an academic medical center or accredited medical facility.
Functional knowledge of current safety requirements.
Demonstrated leadership and formal/informal influence skills.
Advanced knowledge in federal and state laws, regulations, and guidance relating to safety and related areas.
CIH, CHMM, CSP preferred.

Responsibilities

Using sound judgment, analytical, organizational, and time management skills, perform independent, accurate and timely management of audits, inspections, projects, issue resolution, and inquiries.
Collect, categorize, separate, store, and appropriately dispose of hazardous and universal waste.
Research issues and advise labs/clinics/facilities on appropriate practices in managing various types of chemical waste.
Work with leadership to identify, develop, and implement continuous training and communication to the OHSU community to improve safety, integrity, and related areas at OHSU.
Serve as a subject matter expert/consultant to all areas and all levels of the OHSU community.
Provide technical and subject matter input on the development of policies and SOPs to EHS leadership.
Identify deficiencies, collaborate on corrective action plans, and advise on how to achieve compliance with regulatory requirements in an efficient manner.
Implement new policies and procedural changes to affected OHSU members.
Participate in continuous quality improvement initiatives in partnership with EHS leadership.
Work with EHS leadership, advisory councils, the OHSU community, and other appropriate OHSU units in development and enhancement of safety and integrity at OHSU.
Identify weaknesses and deficiencies, and provide input to EHS leadership on how to enhance the quality and efficiency of the work performed.
Other duties as assigned.