EHS and Laboratory Manager

Job Description

The Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) and Laboratory Manager is responsible for preventing workplace injuries and illnesses and supporting NYGC's compliance with applicable safety regulations. The role includes inspecting laboratories and other work areas, developing safety programs and employee training, and identifying and mitigating potential hazards. The EHS and Laboratory Manager will also serve as the Biosafety Officer and Chemical Safety Officer.

This position reports to the Senior Manager, Facilities and Office Management.

EHS Compliance and Risk Management

• Lead the implementation of environmental health and safety policies and practices, including:
• Assisting Laboratory Supervisors and Principal Investigators with risk assessments.
• Ensuring appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is available for laboratory tasks.
• Overseeing medical surveillance programs for employees with potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens or other potentially infectious materials.
• Inspecting and evaluating laboratory environments, equipment and processes to ensure compliance with regulations and industry standards.
• Ensure compliance with applicable environmental and occupational health and safety laws and regulations.
• Keep abreast of regulatory developments, environmental legislation and industry best practices.
• Audit and report on environmental performance to internal stakeholders, external clients and regulatory bodies, as appropriate.
• Investigate near misses, incidents and accidents to identify root causes and implement preventive measures.

Biosafety, Laboratory Safety and Regulatory Oversight

• Serve as Chair of the Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC), Biosafety Officer and primary regulatory contact for the IBC.
• Oversee permitting and inventory tracking for tax-free alcohol under the requirements of the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB).
• Establish and maintain an Alternative Issuance Procedure (AIP) with the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) to ensure laboratories are appropriately staffed with holders of the C-14 Certificate of Fitness (COF) for the Supervision of Chemical Laboratories.
• Ensure critical safety equipment is maintained in good working order, including regular certification of chemical fume hoods and biological safety cabinets, and regular autoclave validation using biological indicators.
• Maintain regular contact with subtenants occupying NYGC spaces to support compliance with EHS regulations and best practices.

Emergency Preparedness, Training and Engagement

• Lead NYGC's emergency preparedness efforts and oversee implementation of the Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Recovery Plan, including related training, communications and periodic drills.
• Educate employees on preventing health and safety issues through established training programs, and develop new programs as needed.
• Maintain organized, accurate records of employee training to meet regulatory requirements.
• Lead committees and working groups to engage NYGC stakeholders in the development and implementation of EHS policies and plans.
• Raise awareness of emerging environmental issues, regulatory requirements, best practices and social responsibility.

Environmental Management and Facilities Coordination

• Coordinate activities related to resource use, pollution prevention, waste management, environmental health, risk management and employee involvement.
• Negotiate environmental service agreements and manage associated costs and revenues.
• Maintain regular contact with regulatory bodies, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and manage associated compliance programs.
• Work with External Affairs on communications and educational initiatives related to environmental issues.
• Coordinate with the Director of Facilities, contracted engineers and building management to ensure NYGC facilities are safe, functional and compliant with applicable codes.

Laboratory Management

• Coordinate routine maintenance, training and troubleshooting for core laboratory equipment and instruments, including:
• Confocal microscopes
• Fluorescence-activated cell sorter
• Autoclaves and glass washers
• Ultrapure water purification systems
• Chemical fume hoods
• Biological safety cabinets
• Serve as the primary point of contact for laboratory personnel and Facilities engineers regarding laboratory infrastructure issues.
• Maintain close working relationships with Principal Investigators and laboratory managers to ensure laboratories operate efficiently and without disruption.
• Work with laboratory managers to maintain up-to-date freezer inventory maps and ensure key contact information is integrated into the Building Management System.

Experience and Qualifications

• M.S. in occupational health, safety or a related scientific field, such as biology or chemistry.
• At least three years of EHS experience in a biotechnology, pharmaceutical or academic laboratory setting.
• Familiarity with applicable OSHA, EPA and FDNY regulations and requirements.
• Excellent communication skills, attention to detail, initiative and a willingness to take a hands-on approach to getting the work done.
• OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER certification preferred.

Competencies

• Technical and Professional Skills: Consistently demonstrates skills and knowledge relevant for current role; strives to expand the depth and breadth of technical and professional skills; works with a high level of integrity; exhibits focus and discipline; appropriately prioritizes, manages expectations and delivers on commitments.
• Collaborative & Communicative: Models collaboration and teamwork; brings out the best in others; effectively works with all levels, internally and externally; respects and embraces diversity of perspective; communicates clearly and listens carefully; uses good judgment as to what to communicate and when to do so.
• Adaptable & Innovative: Adaptable and embraces change; develops new insights and pursues improvements and efficiency; fosters exchange of new ideas and willing to challenge the status quo; takes initiative and is solution-oriented; engages in work with passion and curiosity.

Work Location

This position is based onsite full time. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required.

Salary & Benefits

The pay range for this position is $115,000-130,000 per year; the base pay offered may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

In addition, NYGC offers a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits as well as generous time off. This includes Medical/Dental/Vision for employees & dependent(s); Vacation, Holidays, Sick, and Other Leave, including a paid winter break; a 401(k) match; Life Insurance; Flexible Spending Accounts; employee Tuition Reimbursement; an Employee Assistance Program; and much more.