UConn Careers

JOB SUMMARY

The Department of Environmental Health and Safety at the University of Connecticut (Storrs campus) is seeking a Chemical Health and Safety Specialist to manage UConn’s Laboratory Chemical Inventory Program and provide services for the chemical health and safety team. This entry-level position will report to the EHS Director or assigned designee. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Managing and implementing procedures regarding the procurement, reception, distribution, and disposal of chemicals arriving at and departing from the University by means of a computerized, barcode inventory system.
• Monitoring University compliance with applicable regulations and University policies through surveys of laboratory chemical stocks and other University facilities, as needed.
• Providing consultation and training to the University community regarding regulations, procedures, and the acquisition and disposal of chemicals associated with the inventory program.
• Moving equipment up to 30 pounds to inventory chemicals. Positioning self to remove and replace chemicals on high shelves and in low cabinets.
• Compiling data and developing reports on chemical inventories, inspections, and other environmental health and safety information.
• Participating in the development of safety guidelines and educational information pertaining to laboratory safety and regulated waste management.
• Inspecting laboratories and other facilities for hazardous conditions to ensure worker safety and compliance with regulations, standards, and University policies and programs.
• Investigating and submitting written reports on incidents involving environmental health and safety matters.
• Responding to emergencies involving hazardous incidents in laboratories, as required.
• May supervise professional and student staff.
• Performing other related duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

1. Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related field plus one year of experience working in health and safety or in a research, teaching, or diagnostic laboratory OR 5 years of relevant experience working in health and safety or research, teaching, or diagnostic laboratory.
2. Knowledge of applicable federal and state regulations and nationally recognized standards and guidelines relating to environmental health and safety.
3. Detail-oriented with a strong working knowledge of computer applications and database software; proficient in Microsoft Office products or similar software.
4. Excellent written and oral communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with a diverse community of University faculty, staff, and students.
5. Ability to plan and organize multiple tasks and work independently.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Completion of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), or Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) training courses.
2. Experience with chemical inventory management software applications.
3. Experience in an academic research environment.
4. Experience in presenting training before small and large groups.

APPOINTMENT TERMS

This is a full-time (35 hours per week), permanent position with the potential to work a hybrid work schedule, subject to authorization and University Policy. 

This is a full-time, permanent position. The University offers a competitive salary, and outstanding benefits, including employee and dependent tuition waivers at UConn, and a highly desirable work environment. For additional information regarding benefits visit: https://hr.uconn.edu/benefits-beyond-pay/. Other rights, terms, and conditions of employment are contained in the collective bargaining agreement between the University of Connecticut and the University of Connecticut Professional Employees Association (UCPEA).

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.

TO APPLY:

Please apply online at https://hr.uconn.edu/jobs, (Search # 498336), to upload a resume, cover letter, and contact information for two (2) professional references. Only candidates who submit a resume, cover letter, and two professional references will be considered.

This job posting is scheduled to be removed at 11:55 p.m. Eastern time on July 3, 2024. 

All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp.

 All members of the University of Connecticut are expected to exhibit appreciation of, and contribute to, an inclusive, respectful, and diverse environment for the University community.

The University of Connecticut aspires to create a community built on collaboration and belonging and has actively sought to create an inclusive culture within the workforce.  The success of the University is dependent on the willingness of our diverse employee and student populations to share their rich perspectives and backgrounds in a respectful manner.  This makes it essential for each member of our community to feel secure and welcomed and to thoroughly understand and believe that their ideas are respected by all.  We strongly respect each individual employee’s unique experiences and perspectives and encourage all members of the community to do the same.  All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

The University of Connecticut is an AA/EEO Employer.