Hazardous Materials Specialist

The Hazardous Waste Specialist is responsible for managing hazardous process waste generated by academic and research operations. This position combines field-based responsibilities—including the collection, classification, and packaging of chemical and hazardous waste—with professional-level duties such as regulatory compliance, training, inspections, and procedural development. The role requires specialized scientific knowledge, independent decision-making, and the ability to interpret and apply complex environmental regulations.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science or a related scientific field.
• Minimum of two years of experience in hazardous waste management, laboratory safety, or environmental compliance.
• Knowledge of federal and state environmental regulations (RCRA, DOT, EPA).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and environmental management software.
• Valid driver's license and ability to wear required PPE.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Regular exposure to chemicals, odors, and hazardous substances.
• Must be able to wear respiratory protection and other PPE.
• Work involves standing, walking, bending, and handling containers and equipment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Masters degree and 5 years of relevant work experience
• OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER certification.
• DOT Hazardous Materials Shipping certification.
• Experience in an academic or research institution.
• CHMM (Certified Hazardous Materials Manager) credential.

What You Will Do

Hazardous Waste Handling and Collection

• Collect, identify, segregate, label, and package hazardous waste from laboratories and satellite accumulation areas
• Transport waste to the central accumulation area in accordance with DOT and RCRA requirements
• Oversee safe storage and containment practices to prevent spills and ensure regulatory compliance

Compliance and Documentation

• Maintain waste inventories, profiles, manifests, and inspection logs
• Conduct audits of waste accumulation areas and implement corrective actions
• Ensure adherence to applicable local, state, and federal regulations (e.g., RCRA, EPA, DOT)

Training and Outreach

• Assist with the development and delivery of training sessions on hazardous waste handling, segregation, labeling, and storage
• Serve as a technical resource to laboratory personnel and teaching staff
• Create written SOPs and waste disposal guidelines tailored to university operations

Program Development and Technical Oversight

• Monitor hazardous waste trends and recommend improvements in waste minimization and recycling programs
• Collaborate with researchers and departments to evaluate the regulatory impact of new procedures or materials
• Support emergency response planning and coordinate spill response and decontamination efforts

Regulatory Reporting and Contractor Coordination

• Assist in the preparation of regulatory reports (e.g., Biennial Report, Tier II, EPCRA notifications)
• Coordinate hazardous waste pickups with licensed vendors and oversee proper shipping documentation

Other

• Perform all other duties as assigned to support Baylor's mission
• Ability to comply with university policies
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance

What You Can Expect

As part of the Baylor family, eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, generous time off, tuition remission, and outstanding automatic retirement contributions. Baylor Benefits & Advantages.

About Us:

Baylor University, a private not-for-profit university affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas, is committed to compliance with all applicable anti-discrimination laws, including those regarding age, race, color, sex, national origin, military service, genetic information, and disability.