Safety & Security Officer / Laboratory Coordinator

Howard University

1d•$80,000 - $82,500•Onsite

About The Position

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission. At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth. We are seeking a Safety & Security Officer / Laboratory Coordinator is responsible for overseeing laboratory operations, safety compliance, building security, and emergency preparedness within the College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA). This position integrates laboratory coordination and instructional support with comprehensive safety and security oversight. The incumbent serves as the primary liaison between faculty, students, graduate assistants, Environmental Health & Safety (EHS), Facilities Management, and Campus Public Safety to ensure that laboratories and facilities operate safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with university, federal, and state regulations. This position is designated as an essential employee due to responsibilities related to emergency response, laboratory safety, and building operations. This position is designated as an essential, on-site role. Regular on-site presence is required. Remote work is not permitted. A department-issued mobile phone will be provided. Must be available for urgent escalations and emergency response. May be required to work outside of normal business hours based on operational needs. Must be able to lift and/or move items up to 50 pounds. Supervisory Authority: May provide functional supervision and training to student workers, graduate assistants, and laboratory personnel. This role does not include formal supervisory authority unless otherwise designated. Nature and Scope: This position combines: Laboratory Coordination and Instructional Support: Oversight of teaching laboratory operations, Equipment management and maintenance, Faculty and student support, ABET compliance for laboratory instruction. Safety, Security, and Compliance Oversight: Laboratory safety management, Building access and security systems coordination, Emergency preparedness planning, Regulatory compliance and reporting. The role requires a high level of operational judgment, responsiveness during emergencies, and the ability to balance academic support with regulatory and risk management responsibilities.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Environmental Health & Safety, Occupational Safety, or related field
Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience
Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory safety and operations
Experience in academic, research, or industrial laboratory environments
Familiarity with OSHA, EPA, and NFPA standards
Strong knowledge of laboratory operations and safety regulations (OSHA, EPA, NFPA)
High level of computer literacy (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, systems)
Ability to manage building access and security systems
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to respond effectively in emergency situations
Strong organizational and multitasking ability
Commitment to professional development

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in a related field
Professional certifications (CSP, CIH, or similar)
Experience with ABET-accredited programs
Experience with building access/security systems

Responsibilities

Maintain, organize, and oversee equipment and supplies for teaching laboratories
Ensure laboratory equipment is properly operated, maintained, calibrated, and upgraded
Coordinate laboratory sessions in collaboration with faculty and teaching assistants
Assist faculty and students with laboratory activities, research, and co-curricular initiatives
Maintain accurate inventory of laboratory supplies and equipment
Support research, teaching, and capstone design activities
Ensure laboratory procedures meet ABET accreditation standards
Train faculty, staff, and students on proper and safe equipment use
Serve as liaison between instructors and students to ensure effective lab operations
Ensure compliance with University, OSHA, EPA, NFPA, and other regulations
Conduct laboratory inspections and hazard assessments
Develop and maintain safety manuals and standard operating procedures (SOPs)
Maintain Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and ensure proper chemical handling and storage
Coordinate safety training (chemical hygiene, fire safety, emergency response)
Enforce safety protocols in collaboration with EHS and College leadership
Maintain and inspect safety equipment (eyewash stations, fire extinguishers, etc.)
Document and report incidents, near-misses, and safety audits
Coordinate with Campus Public Safety and Facilities Management
Develop after-hours access protocols and security procedures
Serve as liaison for building safety and security concern
Develop and maintain emergency response and evacuation plans
Serve as first responder for laboratory or facility incidents
Ensure timely communication during emergencies
Maintain records of incidents and corrective actions
Prepare risk mitigation and safety reports
Ensure compliance with all safety regulations
Maintain inspection, training, and incident documentation
Prepare reports for leadership
Support accreditation and regulatory reviews
Collaborate with chairs, faculty, staff, EHS, Facilities, and Public Safety
Process University documentation and administrative tasks
Perform additional duties as assigned