Required
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, biology, chemistry, occupational safety, industrial hygiene, life sciences, or a related science or health and safety field. In-depth knowledge of OSHA, EPA, NIH, CDC, ANSI, and other regulations and industry standards. Advanced experience (typically 8 or more years) working in laboratory safety, a related field, or equivalent combination of education, experience, and training Intermediate experience (typically 5 or more years) in the field of biological safety. Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills with the proven ability to work effectively and collaboratively with a diverse constituency. Ability to prioritize and manage concurrent tasks. Highly detail‑oriented with strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Power Point). Ability to work within and manage data in a safety management software platform. Training, or ability to successfully take training within twelve months of hire, for OSHA 30-hour training, RCRA Hazardous Waste Management training, Shipping Hazmat by Ground (DOT), 40-Hour Hazardous Waste Operations training.
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s degree in microbiology, biology, chemistry, occupational safety, industrial hygiene, life sciences, or a related science or health and safety field.
Experience
in higher education or research.
Experience
with radiation safety and laser safety programs. Professional certification (Certified Safety Professional, Certified Industrial Hygienist, Certified Hazardous Materials Manager, Registered Biosafety Professional, Radiation Safety Officer, Laser Safety Officer, or other recognized health and safety certification). Conditions of Employment: Position designated as essential to the operation of the department and may require reporting to work when the university is officially closed. The incumbent will be required to participate in the department’s on-call program and is required to work overtime and on weekends, as assigned. Wear personal protective equipment including, but not limited to safety glasses and goggles, gloves, face shield, lab coat, safety shoes, hearing protection, and respirator.
Duties
40%- Laboratory Safety Compliance, Regulatory Oversight, Inspections & Audits: Ensures compliance with OSHA, EPA, NIH Guidelines, CDC biosafety standards, ANSI standards, and all applicable state, federal, and institutional regulations. Develops, implements, and maintains comprehensive EH&S programs, including the Chemical Hygiene Plan, Laser Safety Program (in alignment with ANSI Z136 standards), and other required safety programs. Supports the institution's Radiation Safety Program in collaboration with the Radiation Safety Officer. Maintains current knowledge of regulatory changes and updates programs accordingly. Conducts routine laboratory inspections and audits to assess compliance and identify hazards. Issues timely inspection reports with clear documentation of deficiencies and required corrective actions. Oversee the implementation and tracking of corrective actions to closure. Prepare summary reports of inspection findings, trends, and recommendations for continuous improvement. 15%- Safety Equipment Testing, Certification & Maintenance: Ensures proper testing and certification of laboratory safety equipment, including emergency eyewashes and showers, fume hoods, biosafety cabinets, snorkels, and other ventilation systems. Coordinates equipment testing and maintenance activities with contractors, Facilities Operations, and laboratory personnel. Maintains documentation and schedules for all required equipment certifications. Identifies equipment deficiencies and ensures timely remediation. Provides technical guidance on equipment selection and specifications for laboratory planning, relocation, and renovation projects. 15%- Training &
Education
Develops, updates, and delivers comprehensive EH&S safety training programs. Provides training in multiple formats to accommodate diverse learning environments, including in-person, computer-based, online, and hybrid delivery methods. Ensures training compliance for all laboratory personnel and maintains accurate training records. Evaluates training effectiveness and implements improvements based on feedback and incident trends. Participates in institutional safety committees and initiatives. Provides expert technical consultation for mitigation of laboratory hazards and reviews laboratory designs and procedures to ensure incorporation of appropriate safety controls. 10%- Incident Investigation & Emergency Response: Completes thorough investigations of incidents and near-misses, identifying root causes and contributing factors. Communicates investigation findings and implements corrective actions tracked to closure. Maintains emergency preparedness and response capabilities for chemical spills and laboratory accidents. Provides timely technical support during laboratory emergencies. Conducts emergency response training and drills. 10%- Chemical & Waste Management: Oversees and ensures maintenance of chemical and waste management programs. Manages the chemical inventory for laboratories using the EH&S-approved inventory system. Ensures safe handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals, biological materials, hazardous waste, and other regulated waste streams. Provides technical guidance on chemical compatibility, storage requirements, waste segregation, and hazard mitigation. Coordinates with waste disposal contractors and ensures regulatory compliance for all waste management activities. Supports laboratory planning and relocation projects regarding chemical storage and waste management infrastructure. 5%- Other
Duties
as Assigned: Collaborate effectively with academic departments, the Research Compliance Office, and operational departments. Serves as a resource and subject matter expert on laboratory safety matters. Build strong working relationships to promote a culture of safety. Represent Environmental Health & Safety on committees or institution-wide initiatives at the request of the director. Posting Range: $80,000 up to $103,000 commensurate with experience Additional Job Description: Please apply by June 15, 2026 Job Profile: JP1049 - Lab Safety Specialist - Exempt - S14
Qualifications
Compensation Grade: S14 Recruiting Start Date: 2026-05-28 Position Restrictions: Continuing E&G funded position and not term-limited EEO is the Law. Applicants can learn more about William & Mary’s status as an equal opportunity employer by viewing the "Know Your Rights" poster published by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. https://www.eeoc.gov/know-your-rights-workplace-discrimination-illegal Background Check: William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check. Remote Work Disclaimer: Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisor’s ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility. William & Mary and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) are vibrant, innovative and engaged communities and we are delighted about your interest in a career with us. Please be aware Workday has weekly downtimes and will be unavailable Fridays starting at 9:00 p.m. through Saturdays at noon (ET) for scheduled maintenance. During this time, the portal will be closed and will not accept applications. William & Mary offers a competitive range of benefits that support employee well‑being and professional growth, including access to on‑campus fitness facilities, university libraries, and other wellness resources. Educational assistance, professional development opportunities, and a robust holiday schedule are also available. Learn more and explore our comprehensive benefits website.