Biosafety Specialist

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

The role of the Environment, Health and Safety ( EHS) department is primarily environment, health and safety functions at the University. In support of the University's core mission, EHS will provide comprehensive environmental, health and safety services to the University community. This includes education through training and consultation, maintaining a safe environment through recognizing and controlling health and safety hazards, ensuring a process of regulatory compliance and minimizing future potential liabilities. By developing EHS programs and performing various periodic inspections we can provide a safe work place, ensure a process of compliance and minimize future potential liabilities. EHS is organized into eight (8) sections: Biological Safety, Environmental Affairs, Fire Safety & Emergency Response, Occupational & Environmental Hygiene, Chemical Safety, Radiation Safety, Workplace Safety and Business & Support.

The Biological Safety Specialist, reporting to the Biological Safety Officer/Manager, will be the lead professional for shipping of biological agents and hazardous materials. Under general direction, this position will maintain support systems and programs to ensure that employees and faculty understand and comply with all Federal shipping regulations. This may include advising researchers on customs clearance requirements and assisting researchers obtain import permits from relevant Federal authorities.

This position supports the Biological Safety section oversight of BSL-2 laboratories; performs assessments of risks pertaining to infectious agents and biological toxins; reviews research proposals to promote health and safety; train laboratory personnel in biosafety principles and waste disposal, and authors standard operating procedures (SOPs) for research with biological hazards.

This position will assist in performing BSL-3 facility inspections, decontamination and conducting select agent inventories and requires successful completion of the Security Risk Assessment ( SRA) process.

This position supports the CLIP (Collaborative Laboratory Safety Inspections) program by conducting monthly laboratory inspections. This position also serves on the EHS Emergency Response / Hazardous Materials team.

Four year degree with a preference for a related major in a physical science, biological science, environmental science/engineering, occupational safety, industrial technology or closely related science; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Some positions may require specific certifications or licenses. Specific jobs will require additional minimum training and/or licensing upon selection.

* Must be self-motivated and able to handle multiple compliance tasks with minimal supervision.
* Must be able and willing to wear required personal protective clothing and equipment to work in research laboratories containing a variety of hazardous materials and equipment.
* Must possess a valid NC driver's license and an acceptable driving record.
* Upon hire must be able to pass a Security Risk Assessment ( SRA) conducted by the FBI.

* Awareness and experience in export control (15CFR).
* Experience in importing (7 and 9 CFR) and CDC transfer of Select Agents (42 CFR).

The environmental conditions vary tremendously. This position could be required to enter confined spaces or hazardous environments with the appropriate PPE in accordance with established procedures. Examples include but are not limited to: ascend/descend ladders/stairs, ability to lift/move 50 plus pounds and/or ability to wear a self-contained breathing apparatus.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a protected veteran.