DESCRIPTION

The University of California, San Diego, Environment, Health & Safety (EH&S) Principal Hazardous Materials Technician is responsible for managing resources, assessing risk, and coordinating the inspection, testing, and maintenance for the campus-wide eyewash/safety shower, fume hood, snorkel exhaust system, and gas cabinet safety programs in support of research and teaching laboratories where hazardous materials are stored in compliance with regulatory requirements. The incumbent maintains and updates standard operating procedures for testing laboratory safety equipment. The incumbent assesses process efficiencies, operational performance and environmental factors to identify improvement opportunities. The incumbent supervises, trains, provides work direction, and coordinates student employees. In addition, the incumbent maintains, tracks, and orders first aid kits and supplies to supplement campus research area needs. The incumbent supports Chemical Inventory and Hazardous Materials Business Planning programs.

The position works both independently and coordinates work with other EH&S Divisions and campus departments. The position provides guidance and assistance to University faculty, researchers, staff, students, and contractors on safety equipment to ensure it will function as required to keep personnel safe when using hazardous materials.

This position is part of the EH&S emergency response team, which responds to hazardous materials spills and chemical emergencies and assists with hazardous materials cleanup.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Graduation from high school or a General Education Diploma and two years of experience in an environmental health and safety program, or two years of college including appropriate science courses and one year of experience in an environmental health and safety program; or an equivalent combination of education and experience; and knowledges and abilities essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned to the position.

• Understanding of simple mechanical systems, monitoring equipment, and ability to perform testing, routine maintenance and calibration procedures per ANSI and OSHA Standards. Must have a sound understanding of how utility systems interrelate, such as ventilation, HVAC, VAV, and electrical systems etc.

• Understanding of chemical, biological, and radiation principals, health and safety, analytical techniques, chemical compatibility and spill cleanup procedures.

• Understanding of proper application and use of personal protection equipment including respirators, gloves, eye protection and protective clothing and the ability to monitor and train others.

• Good oral and written communication and customer service skills and the ability to relate technical information to a diverse clientele in a professional manner.

• Knowledge of industry standards and laws pertaining to the inspection and testing of fume hoods, eyewash/safety showers, snorkel exhaust systems, and gas cabinets.

• Knowledge of county, state and federal regulations concerning chemical, radioactive and biological hazards, laboratory safety equipment, and rules and regulations regarding transportation of hazardous materials.

• Knowledge of safe emergency hazardous materials spill response.

• Ability to organize, work independently exercising good judgment, take initiative, set priorities, meet deadlines and schedule tasks to complete projects effectively and efficiently with high attention to detail and accuracy.

• Solid knowledge of common University-specific computer application programs. In-depth knowledge of administrative tools and administrative information systems. In-depth knowledge and applications of principles and practices of organizational management and analysis. Advanced expertise using computer software, such as Microsoft Excel, Word, Access, PowerPoint, Outlook, and AutoCAD.

• Completion of an accredited hazardous materials management curriculum to meet the HAZWOPER requirements.

• Ability to evaluate and balance customer satisfaction, fiscal impacts, available resources and business and regulatory requirements.

• Demonstrated ability to safely drive vehicles around campus and city streets. Ability to move or lift large drums, carboys, bottles boxes etc.

• Strong interpersonal skills to interact with a diverse population such as University researchers, faculty and staff and provide excellent customer service.

• Strong demonstrated ability to examine policies, processes, and procedures in order to gain a clear understanding of business issues affecting operations, as well as experience in offering recommendations and suggestions for improvements. Ability to envision technical solutions, communicate with both technical and non-technical staff.

• Experience in producing high quality written reports, and other documents; proven skill to effectively communicate in a clear, organized and concise manner. Proven ability using organizational skills to prioritize and multi-task in a high volume environment. Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• DOJ/FBI and DMV background check clearance required prior to employment.

• Must be able and willing to wear personal protective equipment and respond to health and safety emergencies.

• Serve as EHS Response Team member. May be requested to respond back to campus to support the EHS Duty Officer in the event of an after-hours, weekend, or holiday incident involving hazardous materials and/or for services provided within the employee’s subject area of expertise.