Environmental Health and Safety Specialist

Title: Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) Specialist

Location: Novato United States

Job Description:

Position Summary

The Buck Institute is seeking a part-time Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) Specialist to support the implementation and continuous improvement of the Institute's safety, health, and environmental programs. Operating under the direct supervision of the EHS Officer, the EHS Specialist will help coordinate hazard communication, injury and illness prevention programs, ergonomics, required annual and ongoing safety training, and regulatory compliance activities. The role will also assist with reviewing Biological Use Authorizations for the Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) and protocols submitted to the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), as needed. This position will provide guidance and hands-on support to help ensure compliance with applicable Institute, state, and federal safety and environmental regulations and requirements.

This is a part-time, on-site position of approximately 20 hours per week. The position may convert to full-time based on Institute needs, funding, and management discretion.

About the Buck Institute

At the Buck Institute, our work has the potential to transform healthcare by addressing aging, the leading risk factor for many serious diseases. We bring together talented and mission-driven scientists across disciplines to better understand the mechanisms of aging and develop approaches that help people live better, longer lives. Globally recognized as a pioneer in the field of aging research, the Buck is committed to advancing discoveries that may impact conditions such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, cancer, macular degeneration, heart disease, and diabetes.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, develop, and coordinate training programs to increase proficiency in EHS practices and promote awareness. Document and maintain required training records per Institute guidelines.

• Participate in the EHS laboratory safety inspection program to monitor compliance with regulations and Institute standards. Ensure timely completion of corrective and improvement actions taken in response to inspection findings.

• Review and update safety plans and manuals as needed.

• Assist with the storage, collection, and disposal of chemical materials and waste. Manage the inventory and redistribution of surplus chemicals.

• Support compliance with applicable EHS-related regulations, policies, procedures, and practices for Institute employees.

• Provide support to outside regulators/inspectors and the Institute's EHS-related committees, including the IACUC and IBC.

• Advise and support employees on ergonomic issues.

• Monitor and resolve ticket requests requiring EHS support.

• Develop systems and processes to improve efficiency and completeness of EHS functions.

• Investigate workplace accidents; identify causes and recommend prevention methods.

• Participate in the Evacuation Team and other safety-related issues.

• Develop and maintain emergency response policies, respond to lab emergencies, and coordinate emergency drills.

• Work with lab managers, PIs, and support staff to ensure that proper EHS protocols and procedures are developed, reviewed, and implemented.

• Ensure emergency supplies and equipment are current and complete.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in a science, environmental health & safety, or related field

• Experience with environmental and safety program compliance in academia, biotech, or related industry

• ASP or CSP certification preferred

Specialized Skills

• Functional/technical EHS expertise with strong knowledge of safe work practices, audits, recordkeeping, investigation, and safety training

• Strong organizational priority-setting, attention to detail, and follow-through skills

• Effective written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to build consensus and influence safe behaviors and practices a diverse employee population

• Ability to work independently and contribute within a team

• Working knowledge of EHS regulations and safety programs relevant to a laboratory or research environment

• Familiarity with the CITI training platform preferred

• Ability to apply technical knowledge, experience, and peer resources to make sound professional recommendations to the EHS Officer

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint)

• Able to champion and model a safety-first culture

Compensation & Benefits

• The salary for this part-time, 20 hours per week position is $40,000 - $45,000 per year, commensurate with experience and skills

• Comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision, PTO and paid parental leave, 401(k) with 5% employer match, and student debt repayment option.