Laboratory and Radiation Safety Specialist/Inspector

Laboratory and Radiation Safety Specialist/Inspector

Position Title: Laboratory and Radiation Safety Specialist/Inspector

Department: Environment, Health and Safety

Job Type: Full-Time

Position Summary

The Laboratory and Radiation Safety Specialist/Inspector performs a wide variety of laboratory safety related duties for Environment, Health and Safety (EH&S). The Laboratory and Radiation Safety Specialist/Inspector has frequent oral and written communication with professional staff (PhD, MD, Senior Researchers, Lab Technicians), clerical staff (secretaries and clerks), physical plant staff (cleaners, shop personnel, etc.), graduate and undergraduate students, most university departments and outside vendors. Thus, the Specialist must communicate well with individuals, be able to independently recognize potentially unsafe conditions and act accordingly to correct the situation.

This position reports to the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO). Work assignments are primarily based on inspecting labs for radioactive and other safety hazards with the goal of maintaining compliance with New York State Department of Health and other applicable state and federal regulations governing research laboratory safety.

Duties will include:

• Conduct on-site inspections of UB laboratories. Labs may be designated as research, teaching, or both. Work individually or as part of a 2- or 3-person inspection team.
• Routine radiation protection inspection of campus radioisotope laboratories for compliance with EH&S and state regulations.
• Routine radiation protection inspections of facilities where radiation-producing equipment (x-ray machines) are used.
• Prepare detailed written/electronic lab inspection reports using data obtained from the live inspections. Distribute reports to relevant responsible parties.
• Schedule follow-up inspections as necessary to address deficiencies noted in previous inspection reports.
• Interprets and applies Federal and State rules, regulations, and guidelines as they apply to campus labs.
• Verify proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is being utilized during lab work where hazardous materials are in use.
• Perform radioactive material inventory control
• As part of the inspection process, workers verify that training records of lab workers are valid and up to date.
• Stay knowledgeable of all applicable regulations as they pertain to this position. Must be able to respond to emergencies outside of normal business hours.
• Participate as a member of the UB EH&S Emergency Haz-Mat response team.
• Work within other EH&S divisions as needed.

Learn more:

• Our benefits, where we prioritize your well-being and success to enhance every aspect of your life.
• Being a part of the University at Buffalo community.

University at Buffalo is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and, in keeping with our commitment, welcomes all to apply including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Minimum Qualifications

• An associates degree in Biology, Chemistry, Physics or other relevant science discipline.
• Two years experience working in a lab environment
• Excellent customer service skills and good interpersonal communication skills.
• A valid New York State drivers license.
• A combination of education and experience will be considered in lieu of the requirement.

Preferred Qualifications

• A Bachelors degree in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Health Physics, or other relevant science discipline.
• Experience in an academic and/or research environment.
• Experience in the field of applied radiation protection.
• Practical ability with ionizing radiation sources, equipment, and associated safety instrumentation.

Physical Demands

• Must be medically cleared to wear personal protective equipment including respirators and a self-contained breathing apparatus.
• Must be able to traverse around all parts of the campuses.
• Must be able to move 10 lbs.