Bachelor's degree in a scientific, engineering, or EHS-related discipline (Master's preferred).
7-15 years of progressive EHS experience in biopharmaceutical, biotechnology, or life sciences, particularly in R&D operations.
Expertise in managing risks associated with experimental drug compounds and high-hazard materials.
Strong knowledge of biosafety practices and relevant guidelines (NIH, CDC, AAALAC).
Proven ability to conduct risk assessments for complex laboratory operations.
In-depth knowledge of regulations (OSHA, EPA, DOT, etc.) and permitting processes.
Track record of integrating EHS programs into R&D operations.
Responsibilities
Lead laboratory safety programs, including inspections and hazard identification.
Partner with leadership to develop and approve Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs).
Oversee incident investigations and lead multidisciplinary risk assessments.
Provide strategic oversight for chemical management programs and compliance.
Design and deliver targeted laboratory safety training for staff.
Direct compliance with hazardous waste management systems.
Serve as the primary consultant on spill response and reporting requirements.
Benefits
Comprehensive health and wellness programs.
Professional development opportunities and training.
Flexible work arrangements and potential remote work options.
Collaborative and innovative work environment.
Access to cutting-edge research and technology.
Full Job Description
Job Title: EHS Senior Consultant - BioSafety Location: San Jose, CA; Oakland, CA
Responsibilities:
Lead laboratory safety programs, including inspections, hazard identification, and root-cause investigations of unsafe conditions. Provide expert recommendations to eliminate hazards, reduce risks, and drive a proactive safety culture across all research and development activities.
Partner with laboratory leadership to develop and approve Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs), define project-specific hazards, and implement advanced risk mitigation strategies.
Oversee incident investigations, lead multidisciplinary teams in risk assessments, and create, track, and validate corrective and preventive actions. Facilitate regular safety reviews with senior site management, influencing decisions to advance beyond compliance toward operational excellence.
Provide strategic oversight for chemical management programs, including review and approval of new chemicals, development of advanced storage and segregation protocols, and compliance with flammability, reactivity, and permitting requirements. Direct periodic hazardous chemical inventory reviews for regulatory compliance.
Design and deliver targeted laboratory safety training for new hires, research staff, and annual recertifications, ensuring programs are aligned with evolving regulations and best practices.
Direct compliance with Large Quantity Generator requirements, including contingency planning and implementation of hazardous waste management systems to ensure operational readiness.
Serve as the primary consultant on spill response, incident mitigation, and local, state, and federal reporting requirements.
Develop, implement, and continuously improve biosafety, hazard communication, and chemical safety programs.
Lead the creation and maintenance of EHS management systems, integrating them with organizational goals and industry standards.
Monitor and guide site-wide worker safety initiatives, including those related to pandemic response (population density, PPE use, sanitation protocols, etc.).
Maintain deep expertise in EHS regulatory compliance, with specific knowledge of federal OSHA standards, hazardous materials management, and environmental permitting. Local experience with the Massachusetts and California regulations highly desirable.
Travel to client locations locally or nationally as requested.
Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in a scientific, engineering, or EHS-related discipline (Master's degree preferred).
7-15 years of progressive EHS experience in the biopharmaceutical, biotechnology, or life sciences industry, with significant exposure to R&D operations, BSL-1/BSL-2 laboratories, and vivaria.
Demonstrated expertise in handling and managing risks associated with experimental drug compounds, biologics, cytotoxic agents, and other high-hazard research materials.
Strong working knowledge of biosafety practices, NIH Guidelines, CDC BMBL standards, and AAALAC International requirements for animal research facilities.
Proven ability to conduct and lead risk assessments for complex laboratory and vivarium operations, including controlled environments and specialized equipment.
In-depth knowledge of applicable regulations and standards (OSHA, EPA, DOT, NFPA, USDA, DEA, NIH, CDC) and experience navigating federal, state, and local permitting processes.
Track record of developing and implementing EHS programs that integrate chemical safety, biosafety, occupational health, and environmental compliance into R&D operations.
Experience with occupational health surveillance programs related to animal research and experimental compound exposure.
Excellent leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to influence senior leadership and cross-functional stakeholders.
Proficiency with EHS data management systems, laboratory information systems, and Microsoft Office Suite.
Professional certifications such as CSP, CIH, CBSP, or RBP strongly preferred.
The salary for this position can range from $106,500 - $156,200 annually; actual compensation is based on various factors, including but not limited to, the candidate's competencies, level of experience, education, location, divisional budget and internal peer compensation comparisons.
