Safety Officer

Job Summary The College of Science (CoS) is seeking a Safety Officer to lead and manage comprehensive safety programs across teaching, research, and laboratory environments within the College of Science. Working independently under general supervision, this position oversees chemical, biological, equipment, fire, and laboratory safety programs while supporting emergency response, compliance, and risk mitigation. The CoS Safety Officer serves as a key technical advisor to college and university leadership, collaborates closely with Environmental Health & Safety, University Police, and compliance committees, and promotes a strong culture of safety through training, inspections, and program oversight. Key Responsibilities Oversee and implement College of Science safety programs, including chemical, biological, laboratory, equipment, and fire safety Manage chemical receiving, inventory, storage, labeling, and hazardous waste processes Conduct safety inspections of teaching and research laboratories and initiate corrective actions as needed Coordinate emergency response efforts, including serving as Building Emergency Coordinator and leading spill response and emergency teams Develop and coordinate safety training programs and assist departments with standard operating procedures Serve as liaison with campus safety partners and regulatory bodies to ensure compliance Supervise College of Science safety staff and central shop personnel Coordinate facilities‑related safety issues in collaboration with Facilities Development and Operations Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Ability to communicate with constituents in a professional and respectful manner Thorough knowledge of best practices in responding to hazardous materials emergency situations, incidents or accidents Thorough knowledge of the appropriate procedures and protocols for handling hazardous waste Extensive knowledge of chemical inventorying, labeling, storage, and waste disposal processes Knowledge of chemical hazard assessment, proper chemical storage environments and segregation strategies is essential, particularly in the laboratory environment Knowledge and expertise with the activities and functions of science instructional and research laboratories Working knowledge of computer as a tool, including ability to utilize database, spreadsheet, work‑processing, project planning, and presentation software Ability to wear a respirator and pass annual physical examination Ability to appropriately handle communications with managers and co‑workers Ability to work as a team member in a dynamic unit. Good interpersonal skills Working knowledge of industrial hygiene and occupational safety regulations and practices Knowledge of and ability to follow and promote the University’s Mission Statement, Quality Policy and Core Values Ability to communicate and conduct self in a professional manner Knowledge of “Sterile Technique” is desirable but not essential Thorough knowledge of English grammar, business writing, punctuation, and spelling Ability to maintain and improve inventory reports, experimental protocols and documentation mandated by regulatory requirements Working knowledge of software applications: word processing, spreadsheet, database management Organize and plan work and projects within the scheduling demands and requirements of major College departments, while providing consistent waste management support for all College departments Strong oral communication skills needed to effectively interact with others in the unit, faculty submitting schedules and protocols for laboratory needs, and employees in other units who obtain material and service Ability to analyze and respond appropriately to emergency situations Ability to use considerable judgment and discretion in performing duties required to successfully complete work assignments Required Qualifications Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in a related field Four (4) years of relevant experience. Additional experience which demonstrates acquired and successfully applied knowledge and abilities shown above may be substituted for the required education on a year‑for‑year basis. An advanced degree in a related field may be substituted for the required experience on a year‑for‑year basis. A professional certification may be required for some positions Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree in science or engineering Demonstrated understanding of fundamental chemistry and Environmental Health Safety Five (5) to eight (8) years of experience working in Chemistry, Biology, Geology, Engineering, or similar research fields is preferred Previous experience serving as a research group manager or technical staff manager is highly desirable Compensation Classification: Environmental Health and Safety Professional Exempt III Anticipated Hiring Range: $7,969/month - $8,975/month (Step 10 – Step 16) CSU Salary Range: $6,668/month - $9,714/month (Step 1 – Step 20) Benefits: San José State University offers employees a comprehensive benefits package typically worth 30‑35% of your base salary. For more information on programs available, please see the Employee Benefits Summary. Employment Requirements Background checks, including criminal record checks, will be conducted for all candidates. Failure to satisfactorily complete a background check may affect continued employment. The cost of the background check will be reimbursed by the university. Evidence of required degree(s) or certification(s) will be required at the time of hire. Equal Employment Statement San José State University is an equal opportunity employer. The university prohibits discrimination based on age, ancestry, caste, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military status, nationality, race, religion, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, sex stereotype, and veteran status. This policy applies to all San José State University students, faculty, and staff, as well as university programs and activities. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and certain other federal and state laws, prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex in all education programs and activities operated by the university (both on and off campus). Reasonable accommodation is made for applicants with disabilities who self‑disclose. San José State University employees are considered mandated reporters under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and are required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment. #J-18808-Ljbffr