"Assistant Bio Safety Officer/BSL-3 Lab Manager (On-site)"

About the Job

Reporting to the Director of EH&S, and in partnership with the Director of EH&S, the ABSO/BSL-3 Lab Manager takes ownership of the BSL3 biosafety and biosecurity program at the University. The ABSO/BSL-3 Lab Manager serves as the SME for this program as well as other disciplines related to environmental, health and safety; including but not limited to other laboratory safety programs within the EH&S Department programs as assigned by the EH&S Director. Work is reviewed upon completion to ensure predetermined standards and measures of performance are met, that application of professional/technical judgment is sound, that researcher's support needs are addressed and that faculty, staff and co-workers.

This position demonstrates sound judgment in selecting both the means and methods for obtaining desired results regarding compliance and support obligations. This position provides regulatory interpretation of biosafety and biosecurity obligations for laboratory practices and provides technical support and assistance for all issues involving University biological safety and biosecurity.

This position provides service and support to university academics, facilities, operational departments and EH&S co-workers for all biological safety matters and will provide timely and accurate interpretation of current laboratory practices and proposed laboratory practices in light of regulatory compliance obligations and best management practices exercised in the field of biological safety. This position is required to use a vehicle to respond timely to BSL3 biosafety and biosecurity matters at varying locations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Directs the daily operation of the UC Merced Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) laboratories. Prepares, operates, and maintains laboratory and experimental testing equipment. Schedule and supervise regular maintenance activities, including annual shutdown, decontamination, certification of equipment, and weekly/monthly laboratory maintenance. Provide laboratory administrative services including purchasing of supplies and equipment, maintaining required safety and operations documentation. Maintains inventories of PPE, consumable supplies and research reagents.
• Serves as a training instructor for the UC Merced BSL-3 Training Program. Reviews and updates training materials. Delivers training to BSL-3 researchers and related staff during training courses on-site at UC Merced and off-site.
• Participates in laboratory technical training for BSL-3 users, including required proficiency/competency testing.
• Support faculty users by conducting experiments, including contract research work, and assisting with the performance of complicated experimental procedures. Assists with research on animal models.
• Participates in regularly scheduled meetings with laboratory users, as well as campus administrative and safety personnel. Participates as a member of the campus High-Containment Laboratory Oversight Group.
• Performs other duties as required.

Qualifications

EDUCATION and REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree in a related area.
• Advanced degree in a related area. (Preferred)
• 3 years of related experience including 1 year working with laboratory animals.
• A minimum of 1 year working in BSL-3 laboratories. (Preferred)
• Experience providing BSL-3 didactic and practical training to laboratory staff. (Preferred)
• Driver's license required.

CRITICAL KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• Experience working with biohazardous agents.
• Experience working in BSL-3 laboratories.
• Ability to use Windows and/or Mac computer systems and typing and clerical skills.
• Ability to work with diverse groups of researchers and support staff.
• Experience in working with laboratory animals.
• Ability to carry out general experiments with infectious agents.
• Data analysis and presentation skills. (Preferred)
• Training laboratories staff on scientific techniques. (Preferred)
• Ability to organize and maintain laboratory instruments and supplies. (Preferred)
• Ability to maintain accurate records of studies and laboratory management. (Preferred)
• Strong written, verbal and interpersonal communications skills. (Preferred)
• Knowledge of aseptic techniques. (Preferred)
• Experience providing BSL-3 didactic and practical training to laboratory staff.

Hiring Range

The University of California, Merced is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. ... The salary the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $81,253.60/yr.

Job Closing Date

This posting will remain open until filled with initial applicant review expected to be on or around February 10, 2026.

This union position is represented by the bargaining unit UPTE (RX).

Remote/Hybrid eligibility: This position is fully on-site.