Position Classification Description

Position Class Code / Title: X5018 / Coord,Chemical Safety
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, monitors and coordinates the Chemical Safety Program, including chemical hygiene, chemical safety inspections, chemical inventory, accident investigations, hazardous materials clean-up and chemical safety training.

Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Participates in the development and implementation in the science departments of chemical safety programs such as proper chemical inventory, labeling and storage procedures, chemical material disposal, chemical or hazmat spill preparedness and clean-up, chemical implications for fire protection, and any OSHA chemical safety compliance programs; develops and implements laboratory chemical hygiene plans; assists with the preparation of standard operating procedures; communicates this information to newcomers to campus.
  2. Advises the A and S community regarding chemical safety protocols and procedures to ensure regulatory compliance as mandated by local, state, and federal agencies, including the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Nuclear Regulatory Commission NRC), New Mexico Environment Department (NMED), Department of Homeland Security, Albuquerque Water Utility Authority, the City of Albuquerque Solid Waste Management Department and the City of Albuquerque Environmental Department.
  3. In conjunction with SRS, coordinates special waste disposal projects for toxic or hazardous solids, liquids or gases including mixed waste and radioactive materials as well as ensuring proper implementation of laser safety program.
  4. In conjunction with HSC Radiation Safety coordinates special waste disposal of radioactive materials.
  5. In conjunction with SRS as implements laser safety program.
  6. Coordinates all chemical safety issues with A and S researchers and the personnel at SRS and CRLS to achieve a balanced approach to chemical hazard reduction.
  7. Conducts routine and follow-up chemical safety and hazard inspections of A and S facilities including off-campus facilities; ensures proper operation of chemical hoods, eyewashes, safety showers and other emergency equipment.
  8. Upon request by SRS, responds to emergency situations involving hazardous materials, or fire and smoke incidents; prepares reports of findings and submits recommendations.
  9. Upon request by HSC Radiation Safety responds to emergency situations involving radiation.
  10. Analyzes chemical accident and incident reports for trends; makes recommendations for correcting unsafe conditions and actions.
  11. Serves as the Chemical Hygiene Officer for departments within A & S as assigned.
  12. Implements the Chemical Hygiene Plan for assigned departments.
  13. Maintains the chemical inventory in A & S in coordination with SRS
  14. Participates in the Chemical and Laboratory Safety Committee and any other chemical safety related committees.
  15. May lead and/or guide the work of lower level safety technicians and/or student employees.
  16. Coordinates with SRS to report chemicals of interest and develop site security plans to comply with the Department of Homeland Security requirements.
  17. 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

  • Ability to lead assigned staff including prioritizing and scheduling work assignments.
  • Skill in performing safety inspections and ensuring compliance with OSHA, the Department of Homeland Security, and EPA standards and regulations.
  • Ability to gather data, compile information, and prepare reports.
  • Ability to react calmly and effectively in emergency situations.
  • Ability to develop, implement, and enforce safety programs and protocols.
  • Skill in developing chemical safety procedures and protocols.
  • Knowledge of federal, state and local safety regulations, protocols, and/or procedures.
  • Ability to investigate and analyze information and draw conclusions.
  • Knowledge of industrial hygiene, fire, radiation, and/or environmental safety standards, procedures and protocols.
  • Ability to communicate technical information to non-technical personnel.
  • Ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
  • Skill in developing industrial hygiene procedures and protocols.

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.
  • Hazpower certification or ability to obtain certification within six months of hire.
  • Must be able to utilize a full face respirator.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

  • Moderate physical effort. Requires moderate lifting, handling, pushing, or moving objects up to 35 lbs. Standing/walking may occur more than 50% of time.
  • 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