Position Classification Description

Position Class Code / Title: X0014 / Safety Specialist
Recruitment Tier: Tier 1
FLSA: Exempt
Grade: 13
HR Review/Approval:RVIEW

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, assists in monitoring and coordinating campus environmental health and safety programs, including safety inspections, accident investigations, and safety training.

Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Participates in the development and implementation of university-wide safety programs such as lockout/tagout, confined space entry, fire protection, and other OSHA safety compliance programs.
  2. Advises the university community regarding safety protocols and procedures to ensure the safety of students, faculty and staff as well as regulatory compliance as mandated by local, state, and federal agencies, including the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and New Mexico Environment Department (NMED).
  3. Performs hazard analyses and recommends mitigation procedures to the campus community.
  4. Participates in the development and implementation of department safety work order tracking and reporting.
  5. Conducts routine and follow-up environmental health, safety and hazard inspections of university facilities.
  6. Responds to emergency situations involving hazardous materials, fire and smoke incidents, or unkown hazards; prepares reports of findings and submits recommendations.
  7. Analyzes accident and incident reports for trends; makes recommendations for correcting unsafe conditions and actions.
  8. Leads and/or guides the work of lower level safety technicians and/or student employees.
  9. 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

  • Skill in performing safety inspections ensuring compliance with OSHA and NFPA safety standards.
  • Ability to communicate technical information to non-technical personnel.
  • Ability to gather data, compile information, and prepare reports.
  • Ability to develop, implement, and enforce safety programs and protocols.
  • Skill in performing safety inspections and ensuring compliance with OSHA safety standards.
  • Knowledge of federal, state and local safety regulations, protocols, and/or procedures.
  • Ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations.
  • Skill in developing safety procedures and protocols.
  • Ability to investigate and analyze information and draw conclusions.
  • Ability to work effectively with diverse populations.

Conditions of Employment

  • A valid New Mexico driver's license will be required if a motor vehicle must be operated on the 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.
  • Employees who provide services or work in patient care or clinical areas are required to be in compliance with the University's influenza vaccination requirement.

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: 04/13/2020