Environmental Health/Safety Tech I

PAY GRADE: 27N

CONTEXT OF THE JOB:

Under the general supervision of the Research and Environmental Compliance Officer, maintains and performs duties associated with hazardous waste related programs at the University to assure compliance with federal, state and local regulations and to achieve the optimal control or reduction of the hazards and exposures which are detrimental to people and/or property. Incumbent routinely interacts with students, staff, faculty, administrators, and regulatory agencies, and functions as an internal consultant to all levels of the University in matters of hazardous waste management. Failure to perform tasks satisfactorily can result in liability, property damage, injury or fatality, regulatory noncompliance, and fine, imprisonment or both.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Completes chemical, radioactive, and infectious waste pick-ups on campus; interacts with faculty, researchers, and students on waste issues.
• Performs routine duties associated with the chemical waste disposal program.  Utilizes fleet box trucks for movement of materials throughout campus.
• Classifies waste by EPA and DOT hazard and shipping class.
• Bulks compatible waste streams; assists with preparation of lab packs for off-site shipment. Performs waste minimization activities to reduce volume and disposal cost.
• Assists with completing and maintaining regulatory records; signs manifests.  Organizes and maintains records for evidence of compliance with regulations for inspection by outside reviewers and regulatory authorities such as DNREC, USNRC, DOT, EPA, etc.
• Maintains University compliance with federal and state hazardous waste regulations.
• Conducts inspections/audits, provides upkeep and assists with operations of the Materials Management Facility and Central Accumulation Areas throughout the University.
• Maintains facilities and equipment used to perform tasks, assures maintenance and/or performs/conducts calibrations at required frequencies, labels and communicates status of equipment to department members, trouble shoots equipment problems and failures.
• Provides recommendations to help maintain University compliance with federal, state, and local environmental regulations and codes in order to achieve the optimal control/reduction of hazards and exposure to life, safety, and environment on and around the campus.
• Acts as a member of EHS emergency response team; maintain Hazmat Awareness Level training.  Responds to a variety of incidents and emergencies on campus including, but not limited to, fire, unknown odors, chemical, radioactive, and biological material incidents, and hazardous gas alarms.
• Carry the after-hours department on-call phone on a rotating basis and respond to campus emergencies as necessary. 
• Participates in professional meetings and conferences, when applicable.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or GED and three years of direct experience. Course work in chemistry, physics, biology, engineering or related field with some direct experience preferred.
• Knowledge of the chemical, physical, and regulatory aspects associated with workplace hazards such as fire, hazardous materials, ionizing and non- ionizing radiation, etc.
• Working knowledge of applicable regulations and standards such as EPA, NFPA, OSHA, ANSI, BOCA is preferred.  Must be able to obtain 40-hour HAZWOPER Certification, IATA, and DOT certification.
• Ability to follow complex oral and/or written instructions, and communicate effectively and interact well with people of all ages and diverse background.
• Excellent customer services skills required.
• Experience working in an academic or research and development setting preferred.
• Demonstrates an understanding and consideration of the differing needs and concerns of individuals with varying identities, cultures, and backgrounds.
• Committed to fostering a workplace culture of belonging, where diversity is celebrated, and equity is a core value.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able to pass a medical examination to wear respiratory protection and work around hazardous materials.
• Frequently requires the use of personal protective equipment to prevent exposure to hazardous materials.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds and maneuver 55-gallon drums weighing up to 600 pounds with or without accommodations.
• Must be able to work above and below ground level and work in cramped or confined spaces.
• Must be able to ascend and descend ladders.
• Must be able to safely handle chemical containers of varying sizes and shapes without endangering themselves or those working in the vicinity.
• Must be able to work with and handle shock and friction sensitive, air and water-reactive materials, and explosive compounds and containers.
• Must have a valid motor vehicle operator’s license.
• Access to a private reliable means of transportation.