Safety & Security Officer / Laboratory Coordinator

Overview 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 the University’s mission. At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth. Benefits Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture Join Howard University and thrive with us! The benefits information is provided by the university. Position We are seeking a Safety & Security Officer / Laboratory Coordinator 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. Essential Designation & Work Requirements 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. Principal Responsibilities I. Laboratory Operations and Academic Support 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 II. Laboratory Safety Oversight 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 III. Building Security and Facilities Coordination 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 IV. Emergency Preparedness and Incident Response 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 V. Compliance and Reporting Ensure compliance with all safety regulations Maintain inspection, training, and incident documentation Prepare reports for leadership Support accreditation and regulatory reviews VI. Administrative and Team Responsibilities Collaborate with chairs, faculty, staff, EHS, Facilities, and Public Safety Process University documentation and administrative tasks Perform additional duties as assigned CORE COMPETENCIES 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 Minimum 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 Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree in a related field Professional certifications (CSP, CIH, or similar) Experience with ABET-accredited programs Experience with building access/security systems Working Conditions Requires on-site presence Exposure to laboratory environments, chemicals, and equipment Must be available during emergencies and critical incidents Requires physical activity, including standing, walking, and lifting materials up to 50 pounds Disclaimer This position description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The University reserves the right to modify the duties as necessary to meet operational needs. This document does not constitute a contract of employment. Compliance Salary Range Disclosure Compensation Range: $80,000 - $82,500 #J-18808-Ljbffr Howard University