Research Safety Manager-Biocontainment

The primary accountabilities below are intended to describe the general content of and requirements of this position and are not intended to be an exhaustive statement of duties.  

To work with a team of Biosafety professionals managing and facilitating a Biosafety Core, funded through a Biocontainment Laboratory Operation Cooperative Agreement (UC7) by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). To enhance biosafety training and mentoring programs at the Southeastern Biosafety Laboratory Alabama Birmingham (SEBLAB). To establish a skilled workforce that is better able to meet national, regional, and local biodefense and emerging infectious disease research needs. To train on the best practices for high containment research, but also ensure adherence to regulatory requirements, funding agency mandates, and accreditation standards, such as those set by CDC, USDA, and the Federal Select Agent Program. To participate in the implementation of health and safety program components encompassing a wide spectrum of researchers, laboratories, and biological agents. To travel to annual Biosafety and Biosecurity conferences to further their expertise and understanding of high containment operations.

ESSENTIAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

        Helps to oversee, design, and coordinate UC7 Biosafety Core initiatives.

        Assists in the creation and delivery of in-class and on-line basic BSL-3 training courses.

        Acts as an Alternate Responsible Official for the university's select agent program, collaborating with the Responsible Official to ensure compliance with Federal Select Agent regulations.

        Contributes to the development and continuous refinement of safety policies and Standard Operating Procedures used in SEBLAB.

        Facilitates faculty and staff advancement through SEBLAB access requirements.

        Provides guidance to researchers for obtaining and maintaining necessary import or interstate transport permits for materials used at SEBLAB, and contribute to the hazardous materials shipping program.

        Offers guidance on regulatory issues pertaining to the nature or scope of work conducted in SEBLAB.

        Participates in SEBLAB laboratory safety inspections for SEBLAB facilities, offering guidance and support in addressing identified issues.

        Assists in annual BSL-3 facility verification and performance testing.

        Conducts risk assessments on new instrumentation or procedures proposed for high containment research.

        Performs other duties as assigned.

STARTING ANNUAL RATE OF PAY:  $57,940.00 - $60,000.00 (Commensurate with experience & qualifications)

Bachelor's degree in Biological Science, Public health, Chemistry or a related field and five (5) years of related experience. Work experience may NOT substitute for the education requirement. Minimum of two (2) years experience with handling and/or oversight of biohazardous agents , as defined by the CDC, including hands-on managerial experience with infectious materials in a research setting is required. High containment lab experience is preferred.

LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS/REGISTRATIONS:

Driving record should meet University underwriting guidelines to drive vehicle in performance of University business. Current underwriting guidelines include possession a valid driver's license, issued in the United States; at least 21 years of age; at least three years of driving experience; maintain an acceptable Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

        Strong understanding of biological risk assessment and laboratory safety principles

        Proven ability to coordinate, facilitate, and deliver effective training programs

        Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills

        High degree of proficiency in Microsoft Office products

PERSONAL: Required to possess the necessary physical requirements, with or without the aid of mechanical devices, to safely perform the duties and responsibilities that require performing tasks requiring wearing respirator, bending, stooping, kneeling, walking significant distances between and within buildings on campus, frequent traveling, prolonged standing, climbing stairs, and sitting at computer for long periods of time. 

For full consideration, please be certain application and resume showcase all related experience as it relates to the job announcement, and please list all certifications and/or licenses, if applicable. Work experience should showcase successful progression in responsibilities and demonstrated leadership skills.  Incomplete job profiles will not be processed.

For more information about UAB Facilities, please visit: http://www.uab.edu/facilities/.

UAB is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and family-friendly environment in which all faculty and staff can excel and achieve work/life balance irrespective of race, national origin, age, genetic or family medical history, gender, faith, gender identity and expression or sexual orientation. UAB also encourages applications from veterans and individuals with disabilities.