Environmental Health/Safety Tech I

Major Responsibilities

• Completes chemical, radioactive, and infectious waste pick-ups on campus; interacts with faculty, researchers, and students on waste issues.
• Performs routine duties associated with the chemical waste disposal program.
• Utilizes fleet box trucks for movement of materials throughout campus.
• Classifies waste by EPA and DOT hazard and shipping class.
• Bulks compatible waste streams; assists with preparation of lab packs for off-site shipment.
• Performs waste minimization activities to reduce volume and disposal cost.
• Affixes regulatory records; signs manifests.
• Organizes and maintains records for evidence of compliance with regulations for inspection by outside reviewers and regulatory authorities such as DNREC, USNRC, DOT, EPA, etc.
• Maintains University compliance with federal and state hazardous waste regulations.
• Cleans up and assists with operations of the Materials Management Facility and Central Accumulation Areas throughout the University.
• Maintains facilities and equipment used to perform tasks, assures maintenance and/or performs/conducts calibrations at required frequencies, labels and communicates status of equipment to department members, trouble shoots equipment problems and failures.
• Provides recommendations to help maintain University compliance with federal, state, and local environmental regulations and codes in order to achieve the optimal control/reduction of hazards and exposure to life, safety, and environment on and around the campus.
• Acts as a member of EHS emergency response team; maintain Hazmat Awareness Level training.
• Responds to a variety of incidents and emergencies on campus including, but not limited to, fire, unknown odors, chemical, radioactive, and biological material incidents, and hazardous gas alarms.
• Carries the after-hours department on-call phone on a rotating basis and responds to campus emergencies as necessary.
• Participates in professional meetings and conferences, when applicable.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED and three years of direct experience.
• Course work in chemistry, physics, biology, engineering or related field with some direct experience preferred.
• Knowledge of the chemical, physical, and regulatory aspects associated with workplace hazards such as fire, hazardous materials, ionizing and non- ionizing radiation, etc.
• Working knowledge of applicable regulations and standards such as EPA, NFPA, OSHA, ANSI, BOCA is preferred.
• Must be able to obtain 40-hour HAZWOPER Certification, IATA, and DOT certification.
• Ability to follow complex oral and/or written instructions, and communicate effectively and interact well with people of all ages and diverse background.
• Excellent customer services skills required.
• Experience working in an academic or research and development setting preferred.
• Demonstrates an understanding and consideration of the differing needs and concerns of individuals with varying identities, cultures, and backgrounds.
• Committed to fostering a workplace culture of belonging, where diversity is celebrated, and equity is a core value.

Special Requirements

• Must be able to pass a medical examination to wear respiratory protection and work around hazardous materials.
• Frequently requires the use of personal protective equipment to prevent exposure to hazardous materials.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds and maneuver 55-gallon drums weighing up to 600 pounds with or without accommodations.
• Must be able to work above and below ground level and work in cramped or confined spaces.
• Must be able to ascend and descend ladders.
• Must be able to safely handle chemical containers of varying sizes and shapes without endangering themselves or those working in the vicinity.
• Must be able to work with and handle shock and friction sensitive, air and water-reactive materials, and explosive compounds and containers.
• Must have a valid motor vehicle operator’s license.
• Access to a private reliable means of transportation.