Biosafety Officer

Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute is seeking a Biosafety Officer responsible for protecting employees, contractors, visitors, the public, and the environment from potential exposures to biohazardous materials and toxins. The role ensures full compliance with Select Agents and Toxins regulations, other applicable governmental regulations, and internal requirements.

Responsibilities

• Conduct risk assessments, lab inspections, and IBC protocol reviews.
• Develop and deliver biosafety training programs.
• Manage biological waste and respond to on-call emergencies and occupational health incidents.
• Serve as the Responsible Official (RO) for the Institute’s Select Agent Program, ensuring compliance with CDC and APHIS regulations.
• Develop and implement health and safety programs, including updating the Select Agents Biosafety Plan, Chemical Hygiene Plan, Security Plan, and Incident and Emergency Response Plan.
• Review research projects involving human and animal pathogens, biological toxins, recombinant/synthetic nucleic acids, and transgenic plants/animals; advise researchers on biocontainment levels, safety practices, and regulatory guidelines.
• Assist researchers in obtaining and maintaining import or interstate transport permits for biological materials.
• Transport infectious materials between campuses as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences or a related field and five or more years of biosafety experience; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• BSL-3 and ABSL-3 experience required.
• Experience as a Responsible Official (RO), Alternate Responsible Official (ARO), or Certified Biosafety Professional (CBSP) preferred.
• Expert knowledge of NIH Guidelines, CDC/NIH Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories, OSHA regulations, CDC/APHIS Select Agents and Toxins regulations, DOT regulations, IATA Guidelines, and other relevant federal, state, and local regulations.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills, professionalism, diplomacy, and discretion.
• Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and customer-service skills.
• Ability to manage multiple complex tasks and meet deadlines independently.
• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive situations with discretion.
• Professional-level computer skills; ability to learn department-specific systems.
• Must pass a National Select Agent Registration security risk assessment and may require a final U.S. Government security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in microbiology, virology, public health, biosafety, or environmental health.

Physical Requirements

• Work performed in laboratory and vivarium/animal housing environments.
• Frequent standing, sitting, walking, kneeling, crawling, reaching, and overhead work.
• Lift, carry, push, or pull objects up to 50 pounds.
• Perform repetitive tasks and desk-based computer work.
• Wear personal protective equipment, including respirators.
• Work in proximity to research animals and areas with hazardous materials or infectious agents; may require vaccinations.

The Institute will provide reasonable accommodation to employees with disabilities requiring assistance to perform essential functions.