Lab Safety Support Officer

The Office of the Vice Provost for Research (OVPR) provides essential services that enable exceptional research outcomes.
The Laboratory Safety (LS) Group supports research and teaching activities by delivering training, guidance, and compliance assistance in biosafety, chemical safety, general laboratory safety, radiation safety, and laser safety.
This is an onsite position based at the Boston campus, with regular travel to the Medford/Somerville and Grafton campuses. While occasional remote work (up to one day per week) may be permitted, the role is intended to be primarily in person.

The Laboratory Safety Support Officer (LSSO) serves as the first point of contact for expert advice and technical services on general safety matters within the disciplines of public health, occupational safety and health, fire safety, and environmental protection. This role supports faculty, staff, students, visitors, contractors, and regulatory agents working in or impacting teaching, education, and training laboratories.

As a generalist, the LSSO provides direct support and collaborates with Lab Safety Specialists in the areas of biosafety, chemical safety, and radiation safety.

Responsibilities include:

Inspections

• Conduct regular laboratory audits and provide recommendations and education to researchers and instructors to maintain safety and compliance.
• Document inspection reports, citations, and resolutions, and present them to the appropriate Supervisor(s) and Committee as needed.

Safety Equipment Testing

• Oversee testing, certification, and repair of fume hoods, biosafety cabinets, and other ventilated safety equipment.
• Coordinate services with testing vendors, Facilities Services, and laboratory personnel.

Incident Investigations & Emergency Response

• Investigate laboratory accidents and incidents not assigned to Lab Safety Specialists, documenting findings and recommending preventive actions. Examples include strains, sprains, and lacerations.
• Respond to accidents and incidents (including off-hours) requiring immediate support, such as injuries, illnesses, hazardous material spills/releases, or fires.
• Coordinate with the Incident Commander and Lab Safety Specialists for emergency response and follow-up investigations.

Hazardous Waste Management

• Assist with managing and disposing of hazardous waste (biomedical, including sharps; chemical; controlled substances) generated in laboratories.
• Provide guidance on hazardous waste regulations and policies, inspect for compliance, and manage vendor services for waste pickup and supply delivery.
• Perform autoclave validations and ensure proper recordkeeping.

Special Projects

• Participate in laboratory planning, relocation, and renovation projects.
• Deliver laboratory safety training sessions.
• Assist with risk assessments for laboratory tasks.
• Coordinate laboratory closures, openings, and relocations.
• Respond to general questions and concerns from laboratory staff and provide feedback.
• Perform other relevant laboratory safety duties as assigned by the Supervisor.

Basic Requirements:

• Knowledge and skills as typically acquired through completion of a bachelor's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, occupational safety, industrial hygiene, one of the life sciences, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience in a laboratory or related industry (chemical manufacturing, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, research laboratory, etc.).
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Must be committed to working as a member of a team.
• Must be familiar with standard laboratory procedures and operations to converse with researchers and provide relevant guidance.
• Proficiency with computers, Microsoft Office and standard office software.
• Able to travel between campuses.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in chemical hygiene/lab safety strongly preferred.
• 1-3 years of bench experience.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., Certified Hazardous Materials Manager, Certified Safety Professional, Certified Industrial Hygienist, or other recognized health and safety certifications).
• Progress toward certification or an advanced degree in a relevant discipline.
• Capable of obtaining medical clearance for the use of respiratory protection.
• Strong presentation and technical training skills.
• Valid driver's license.

Special Work Schedule Requirements:

• Ability to occasionally work nights, weekends, or holidays for emergency response.