Senior Safety and Compliance Officer

Senior Safety and Compliance Officer Salary: $73,000-$78,000 Benefits Eligible Full Time Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in a related field of science or equivalent and 2 years of professional experience Position Summary The Senior Safety and Compliance Officer (SSCO) leads the Office of Research Safety-Chemical (ORSC), supervising staff and overseeing chemical and laboratory safety programs, including laboratory inspections, chemical inventory, emergency response, and policy development. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities And/Or Competencies Proven professionalism and integrity in representing safety and compliance offices or programs Leadership aptitude with a focus on customer service and safety compliance; ability to work within a strong, effective team Experience in consensus-building and safety initiatives; ability to understand needs in varied safety areas Work independently on multiple simultaneous projects with minimal supervision Takes initiative to perform recurring tasks defined by procedures and complete new assignments as needed Professional oral and written communication skills Ability to prepare clear, accurate reports with findings, conclusions, and recommendations Ability to implement continuous quality improvement using relevant metrics Working knowledge of state and federal environmental health and safety regulations and national safety standards Respond appropriately to critical safety and compliance situations in academic, research, and clinical settings Assist with in‑service training and education programs in applicable areas Prioritize and handle multiple tasks simultaneously across diverse safety services and locations Proficient in performing and documenting chemical and laboratory safety assessments Proficient with Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Access) and related tools Use of standard office computer equipment and software Physical Demands Work in varied physical environments (weather extremes, laboratories, animal care facilities, etc.) Wear personal protective equipment such as respirators Climb stairs, lift, twist, kneel, turn, and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs Stand, walk, and navigate occasionally awkward work locations and travel paths Pass a physical fitness medical evaluation Key Responsibilities Operation Management of the Chemical Safety Group Direct program goals, objectives, strategic plans, policies, and procedures Monitor and evaluate effectiveness, implement changes for service improvement Analyze work processes within ORSC programs and investigate improvement opportunities Identify and address new or updated policies and programs Oversee ORSC online and customized training for main and extended campuses Develop, review, update, and deliver chemical laboratory safety training based on regulations and best practices Assess resources and equipment needed to support program objectives Supervise, lead, and collaborate with ORSC team members on audit, consultation, and inspection programs Promote professional development of staff and serve as authority on work assignments and disciplinary decisions Direct and review program activities and operations Initiate and refine job descriptions and annual work plans with ORS Director Communicate routinely with staff, provide progress reviews and performance evaluations Counsel staff on policy, federal/state/local regulations, and training issues Develop and implement best practice policies for staff ORS Representation Collaborate with Office of Research Integrity, Environmental Safety Division, Facilities Management, and stakeholders for customer service and support Communicate with UGA research faculty and act as the Research Safety Committee arm for safety support Represent ORS at campus meetings as EH&S resource and liaison for safety program development and implementation Advise on safety considerations in lab construction, renovation, and space planning Promote a positive safety culture within the UGA community Management Support and Business Continuity Collaborate with ORS Director and AVP to design, establish, and maintain effective organizational structure, budgeting, and staffing Participate in strategic, financial, personnel, and operational decisions that align with ORS and University goals Lead staff cross‑training efforts Coordinator of PREHS Team / On‑Call After‑Hours Rotation and Spill Response Member of the hazardous materials spill response team (on‑call) Lead coordinator of the PREHS on‑call emergency response team, responsible for scheduling, training, hazard communications, and maintaining operation manuals Participate in incident response for hazardous chemical releases and spills Handle after‑hours, weekend, and holiday emergency responses Coordinate with Campus Police and County Fire & Emergency Services during emergencies Mentor HAZWOPER and provide training on chemical risk assessments, protective equipment, and procedure drills Other Assignments Perform additional short or long‑term duties assigned by the ORS Director and AVP Position Details Position of Trust: Yes Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?: No Does this position require a P‑Card?: No Is driving a responsibility of this position?: Yes Is having a P‑Card an essential function of this position?: No Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?: No Does this position have security access (Public Safety, IT Security, Personnel Records, Patient Records, or Access to Chemicals and Medications)?: Yes Contact Details Recruitment Contact Name: Lisa Kelly Recruitment Contact Email: View email address on click.appcast.io 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 needing accommodations or assistance with accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (View email address on click.appcast.io). #J-18808-Ljbffr