Laser Safety Specialist

Cornell University•Ithaca, MI

45d•$81,924 - $95,208•Onsite

About The Position

Cornell University's Department of Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) is seeking a Laser Safety Specialist to support academic research across its Ithaca campus. This role will assist in managing laser, non-ionizing, and ionizing radiation safety programs, requiring knowledge of radiation safety principles, New York State and federal OSHA regulations, and the application of various radiation types in research labs. The specialist will provide expertise in hazard assessment and control, offer technical direction to labs for safe equipment utilization, and make on-the-scene decisions within the radiation safety program's purview. Responsibilities include administering and auditing program areas, developing safety training and procedures, inspecting facilities, and fostering innovative solutions to radiation-related challenges to support Cornell's research and teaching goals. This position excludes Weill Cornell Medicine but supports other university radiation safety programs, including radioactive materials. The role also emphasizes fostering a culture of belonging and a healthy work environment through inclusive communication and collaboration. This is an endowed position within a value-based organization.

Requirements

BS in health physics, physics, or related fields.
Two to four years’ experience working in a laboratory or in a laboratory safety program at a university or other research-based organization or equivalent combination.
Experience working with Class 3B or Class 4 lasers.
Familiarity with OSHA requirements and ANSI standards for safe use of lasers.
Familiarity with performing laser hazard assessment calculations
Demonstrated excellence in oral and written communication skills and the ability to develop effective working relationships at all levels.
Committed to meeting the needs of the research community while maintaining a high level of health, safety, and compliance performance.
Commitment to providing excellent customer service.
Strong time- and task-management skills.
Familiarity with business software applications (e.g. MS Office, SharePoint).
Must possess and maintain a valid NYS Driver’s License. Out-of-state employees must obtain and show proof of a NYS license within 30 days of starting employment.
Ability to pass a pre-employment physical, medically qualified to utilize respiratory protection (i.e. full-face respirator, SCBA), capable of responding to and performing physically demanding work in a hazardous materials emergency.
Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.

Nice To Haves

Master’s or doctoral degree in health physics, physics, or related fields
Two years’ professional experience managing laser or radiation safety programs
Experience with chemical, biological, and radiation safety issues in a research environment
Laser Safety Officer Certification from the Board of Laser Safety

Responsibilities

Provide expertise assessment and control of laser and magnet hazards.
Work directly with Cornell labs to provide technical direction and support of safe utilization of laser, nonionizing, and ionizing radiation equipment sources in compliance with regulatory requirements.
Exercise judgement, flexibility, and creativity to solve implementation and compliance issues during frequent interactions with campus stakeholders.
Make “on-the-scene” decisions within the purview of the radiation safety program.
Administer and audit program areas, including lasers, magnets, and x-ray producing equipment.
Development and ongoing improvement of safety training and lab-specific procedures.
Inspect facilities utilizing radiation hazards, assist in ensuring that regulatory and University requirements are met and that radiation sources are utilized safely.
Develop innovative solutions to problems and situations involving lasers and x-ray producing equipment.
Foster the progression of Cornell’s teaching and research goals.
Support other university radiation safety programs including radioactive materials.
Foster a culture of belonging and a healthy work environment by communicating across differences; being cooperative, collaborative, open, and welcoming; showing respect, compassion, and empathy; engaging and supporting others regardless of background or perspective; speaking up when others are being excluded or treated inappropriately; and supporting work/life integration of oneself and others.