"Biosafety Officer"

Job Summary

The Biosafety Officer, under the general supervision of the Director of Environmental Health & Safety, serves as the campus authority for biosafety. The incumbent provides advanced-level functional expertise and leadership for complex and critical environmental health and safety programs. The role ensures compliance with federal, state, and local biosafety regulations, develops and implements biosafety programs, oversees biological use authorizations (BUAs), conducts laboratory inspections and audits. The Biosafety Officer communicates with researchers, administrators, and regulatory agencies to maintain a safe and compliant research environment across the university’s multiple sites and facilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the Campus Biosafety Officer (BSO), ensuring safe use of bioagents and biohazards across all campus facilities
• Develop, implement, and monitor biosafety programs, systems, procedures, and training
• Prepare and review Biological Use Authorizations (BUAs) for research involving pathogens, recombinant DNA, or biological toxins
• Conduct biosafety inspections and audits of laboratories and facilities, identify corrective actions, and ensure follow-up
• Provide expert guidance and training to researchers and staff on biosafety practices and emergency procedures
• Ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, including CDC, NIH, Cal/OSHA, EPA, DOT, USDA, and related standards
• Communicate with regulatory agencies and interpret evolving biosafety regulations for the university
• Assist in developing and implementing new safety protocols, including COVID-19 safety measures
• Participate in emergency response activities as part of the university’s Emergency Operations Center when required

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Expert knowledge of biosafety, environmental health, and safety regulations, standards, and best practices
• Advanced analytical and organizational skills to manage large, complex, and strategic EHS programs
• Ability to interpret and apply complex laws, codes, and scientific data to programmatic decisions
• Strong project management and risk assessment skills for evaluating and mitigating hazards
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to interact effectively with diverse campus stakeholders and agencies
• Ability to lead and influence committees, teams, and cross-departmental safety initiatives
• Knowledge of biological research practices, including containment, waste management, and laboratory operations
• Ability to analyze and respond appropriately to emergency situations
• Skilled in training design and delivery, including biosafety resources and laboratory safety courses
• Demonstrated ability to apply customer service principles, maintain professionalism, and foster collaboration

Required Qualifications

• Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in a related field and five 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

License

A valid driver's license is required for this position. Out of state candidates selected for the position must obtain a State of California driver's license within 10 days of hire in accordance with the California Department of Motor Vehicles regulations.

Once hired the employee must successfully complete the Defensive Driver Training Program provided by the State of California for California State University campuses.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in public health, microbiology or other biological discipline and/or equivalent experience/training.
• Professional certification as a Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) or Certified Biosafety Professional (CBSP) or Registered Biosafety Professional (RBP) or preparing to become a CIH, CBSP, or RBP
• 6 or more years of professional experience in the field of laboratory biosafety with a working title of Biosafety Officer

Compensation

Classification: Environmental Health and Safety Professional IV
Anticipated Hiring Range: $9,787/month - $10,183/month (Step 14 – Step 16)
CSU Salary Range: $7,566/month - $11,022/month (Step 1 – Step 20)

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.

Application Procedure

Click Apply Now to complete the SJSU Online Employment Application and attach the following documents:

• Resume
• Letter of Interest

All applicants must apply within the specified application period: November 14, 2025, through November 30, 2025. This position is open until filled; however, applications received after screening has begun will be considered at the discretion of the university.

Contact Information

University Personnel
jobs@sjsu.edu
408-924-2252