Position Summary(Sr.) EHS Manager is responsible for establishing, leading, and continuously improving the EHS program for a single-site biologics and GCT CDMO in New Jersey, covering process development (PD) through GMP manufacturing of plasmid DNA, viral vectors and biologics. This role ensures full compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, supports client and corporate requirements, and drives a strong safety culture across labs, pilot, and GMP suites.
Key Responsibilities- Own and manage the site EHS Management System in compliance with OSHA, EPA, DOT, NFPA, and NJ state/local regulations.
- Develop, maintain, and implement EHS policies, procedures, and programs.
- Lead environmental compliance: hazardous/universal waste, wastewater, air emissions, Tier II/SARA reporting, and NJDEP permits.
- Lead or support the Biosafety Officer function; oversee biosafety programs for BSL-2 / BSL-2+ plasmid and lentiviral operations.
- Ensure safe handling and control of viral vectors, biological materials, chemicals, cryogens (LN2), and compressed gases.
- Plan and coordinate industrial hygiene assessments and occupational health programs (e.g., respiratory protection, medical surveillance).
- Lead EHS risk assessments, incident/near-miss investigations, root cause analysis, and CAPA; track and report EHS KPIs.
- Deliver EHS onboarding and refresher training; maintain strong floor presence and coach line leadership.
- Represent EHS during client audits, regulatory inspections, and site visits; support EHS sections of quality/technical agreements.
- Own the site Emergency Response Plan and coordinate drills and external responder engagement.
Qualifications- Bachelor's or above degree in Environmental Science, Occupational Health & Safety, Industrial Hygiene, Engineering, Biology, or related field required.
- 10+ years of EHS experience with site-level responsibility in biotech/pharma/CDMO or similar regulated environment.
- Strongly preferred: experience with biologics or viral vector operations (plasmid DNA, lentivirus, BSL-2 labs, GMP manufacturing).
- Solid knowledge of OSHA 29 CFR 1910, RCRA, basic CAA/CWA requirements, DOT HazMat; familiarity with biosafety standards (BMBL, NIH Guidelines).
- Preferred certifications: CSP, CIH, CHMM, RBP/CBSP or equivalent.
- Proven ability to work cross-functionally, communicate clearly, and provide practical, operations-friendly EHS solutions in a fast-paced setting.
The estimated salary range is $100,000 - $150,000, based on experience level.
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