Senior Safety and Compliance Officer

Senior Safety and Compliance Officer The Senior Safety and Compliance Officer (SSCO) is a leadership position responsible for staff supervision and oversight of all chemical and laboratory safety programs within the Office of Research Safety-Chemical (ORSC). The ORSC operates under the Office of Research Safety (ORS) and is led by the SSCO. Position Summary Responsibilities include managing daily operations of the ORSC, developing and enforcing safety policies, coordinating training, and representing the ORS in meetings and working groups. The SSCO works collaboratively with university research faculty, administrative units, and external agencies to maintain a culture of safety and compliance. Responsibilities Operation Management of the Chemical Safety Group Develop and direct short‑ and long‑range program goals, objectives, and policies. Monitor effectiveness, implement improvements, and analyze work processes. Identify, update, and implement new policies and programs as needed. Coordinate and deliver chemical laboratory safety training for main and extended campuses. Supervise the ORSC team, including audits, consultations, and inspections. Provide staff development, assign work, and manage disciplinary decisions. Prepare and review program activities, operations, and annual work plans. Conduct performance evaluations and provide regular progress reviews. Advise staff on policy, federal/state/local regulations, and training. ORS Representation Collaborate with the Office of Research Integrity, Safety Division, Facilities Management, and other stakeholders to provide excellent customer service. Act as the Research Safety Committee representative, developing and delivering safety support. Represent the ORS at campus meetings as an EH&S resource and liaison. Provide safety guidance for lab planning, construction, and renovation. Promote a positive safety culture across the UGA community. Management Support and Business Continuity Assist the ORS Director and AVP in designing, budgeting, and staffing to meet organizational goals. Participate in strategic, financial, and personnel decisions to support ORS and university objectives. Lead staff cross‑training initiatives. Coordinator of PREHS Team and On‑Call After‑Hours Rotation Lead the hazardous materials spill response team and coordinate the PREHS operations manual. Respond to releases, spills, and incidents involving hazardous chemicals. Manage on‑call scheduling, spill response training, and hazard communications. Coordinate with Campus Police, County Fire, and Emergency Services during emergencies. Mentor staff on HAZWOPER training and hazardous material procedures. Other Assignments Perform additional duties assigned by the ORS Director and AVP. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in a related science field or equivalent, plus 2 years of professional experience. Preferred Qualifications Extensive experience with chemical and laboratory safety programs. Leadership experience in a safety or compliance environment. Strong communication skills and ability to develop effective training materials. Knowledge of state and federal environmental health and safety regulations. Experience in consensus‑building and safety initiative development. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Professional integrity and strong customer service orientation. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while managing multiple projects. Strong oral and written communication; ability to prepare clear reports. Experience applying qualitative and quantitative metrics for continuous improvement. Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access) and standard office equipment. Working knowledge of national safety standards and regulatory guidelines. Ability to respond to critical safety situations appropriately in academic, research, and clinical settings. Facilitation of in‑service training and education programs. Prioritization and multitasking skills across diverse safety services. Physical Demands Work in diverse physical environments, including weather extremes and laboratories. Wear personal protective equipment such as respirators. Climb stairs, lift, twist, kneel, turn, and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs. Stand, walk, and navigate awkward work locations. Maintain physical fitness for medical evaluation. Equal Opportunity Employer Statement The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, veteran status, or other protected status. Persons requiring accommodations for accessibility may contact Central HR at View email address on click.appcast.io . #J-18808-Ljbffr