Position Classification Description

Position Class Code / Title: X0017 / Hazardous Materials Specialist
Recruitment Tier: Tier 1
FLSA: Exempt
Grade: 13

This is a description of a Staff Position Classification. It is not an announcement of a position opening. To view descriptions of current openings, please go to UNMJobs and Search Postings to view positions that are currently accepting applications.

The following statements are intended to describe, in broad terms, the general functions and responsibility levels characteristic of positions assigned to this classification. They should not be viewed as an exhaustive list of the specific duties and prerequisites applicable to individual positions that have been so classified.

Summary

Under general supervision, coordinates projects involving hazardous chemical waste and other chemical safety issues. Ensures compliance with all local, state, and federal regulatory agencies and university policies and procedures. Conducts training programs in area of specialty.

Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Inspects campus facilities for compliance with environmental health and safety regulations; advises users of the proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials.
  2. Defines scope of work for potential contracts for building demolition or renovation and other chemically contaminated property including sampling, testing, removal, decontamination, and disposal.
  3. Coordinates special waste disposal projects including the handling of toxic gases, infectious materials, asbestos, PCBs, hazardous chemicals and mixed waste, including radioactive materials.
  4. Develops and conducts new employee training programs in the areas of infectious wastes, hazard communication, asbestos, poly-chlorinated biphenyls, and other hazardous substances.
  5. Advises management on potential hazardous materials and makes recommendations as required.
  6. Maintains records such as hazardous and non-hazardous waste manifests and associated documents.
  7. Responds to hazardous materials spills such as oil, acid, and mercury; implements clean-up plan.
  8. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree; at least 3 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
  • Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

  • Knowledge of transport and disposal procedures for safe handling of hazardous chemicals and/or radioactive materials.
  • Ability to communicate technical information to non-technical personnel.
  • Knowledge of transport and disposal procedures for safe handling of toxic gases, infectious materials, asbestos, PCBs, and other hazardous substances.
  • Skill in performing safety inspections and ensuring compliance with OSHA safety standards.
  • Ability to develop, implement, and enforce safety programs and protocols.
  • Knowledge of chemical, hazardous waste, industrial hygiene, and/or environmental health standards.
  • Records maintenance skills.
  • Ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations.
  • Knowledge of federal, state and local safety regulations, protocols, and/or procedures.
  • Skill in developing and conducting employee information/orientation sessions.
  • Skill in developing safety procedures and protocols.
  • Ability to operate, test and/or repair monitoring, sampling and/or analytical equipment and instruments.
  • Ability to work effectively with diverse populations.

Conditions of Employment

  • Possession of a valid New Mexico driver's license is a requirement for this job.
  • Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.
  • Specific personnel training is required for employees working with hazardous materials and hazardous waste.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

  • Considerable physical activity. Requires heavy physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects up to 50 pounds. Physical work is a primary part (more than 70%) of job.
  • Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.
  • Work may involve moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.

The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.

Revised Date: 03/20/2017