Job Summary

• The Biosafety Officer is responsible for supporting the implementation of the University of Southern California’s Biosafety Program by providing hands on support as well as strong leadership for the Biosafety group. This position is under the supervision of the EH&S Deputy Director and will perform duties in Biosafety in a multi-disciplinary Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) environment with strong emphasis on research safety. The primary purpose of this position is to provide biosafety and biohazard expertise to university clients and leads development and implementation of the university’s biosafety programs. Owns the ongoing development and implementation of the university’s biosafety programs.  Oversees risk assessments for the use of biohazards and reviews research documents and current scientific literature with respect to the use of biohazards as well as biosafety-related rules, regulations, and guidance documents. Serves as a member of the campus-wide program safety committee and develops training for university, state, and local biosafety policies and programs. Serves as subject matter expert (SME) for personnel and interacts with university research community and safety committees to provide technical assistance or guidance.

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  This position must exercise significant judgment, discretion, and professional expertise in the interpretation and application of federal, state, local, and University policies, protocols, and regulations. This position is responsible for the review and approval of complex research projects which may involve significant hazards, and which require compliance with many complex regulations, such as NIH, CDC, and EH&S policies.  This position has authority on behalf of the IBC and requires significant coordination with IACUC, and other Institutional committees and authorities.
  

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Work with laboratories to integrate safety into laboratory operations and promote safe work practices based on regulatory requirements, best management practice guidance and University Policy.

• Perform risk assessments of rDNA and biological agent protocols, process applications for registration with the Harvard Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC), and act as a voting Biosafety Officer for the committee.

• Conduct laboratory inspections and compliance reviews of laboratories (BSL1 to BSL3, in vitro and in vivo work with rDNA), research animal facilities and other support facilities that use recombinant DNA technology and biological agents. Consult with Principal Investigators and laboratory personnel on inspection findings and provide appropriate recommendations based on regulatory compliance and best practice guidance (including NIH Guidelines).

• Review grant applications and animal experimentation protocols. 

• Assist laboratory clients with identification of appropriate biological laboratory containment levels, and strategies for hazard assessment and control.

• Maintain and update records of laboratory inspections, internal and external correspondence and investigations. Monitor completion of required tasks such as inspections, lab permit/registration renewals, regulatory filings and take action (with School, EH&S and labs) to complete in a timely manner.

• Prepare and conduct training including biological safety, bloodborne pathogens, general, and physical protection in laboratories, hazardous materials shipping, and other customized trainings as needed.

• Prepare, update, and draft policies, guidelines, and procedures for biological hazards and processes.

• Assist in the response and investigation of laboratory-related accidents or exposures.

• Implement multi-disciplinary EH&S programs. Develop written plans, training modules, fact sheets and other communications.

• Responsible for oversight of certain aspects of the Biosafety program as assigned by manager. For example, biological safety and regulatory compliance for BSL3 laboratories.

• Maintain a leadership role in the Biosafety group acting as a coach, mentor and resource for junior staff.

• Take a lead role in enhancing current program by proactively identifying and assessing areas for improvement and developing a project plan to address needs.

• Interpret and maintain proficiency in regulations, standards, guidelines and trends in biological safety and environmental health and safety; anticipate and evaluate their impact on clients; communicate requirements to EH&S and client management.

• Work collaboratively with Biosafety professionals from USC-affiliated institutions registered through the IBC, and the IBC administrative office.

• Maintain strong collaborative and professional relationships with EH&S staff, Principal Investigators, researchers and clients while actively promoting a culture of safety.

• Provide emergency response support (24 hour) throughout the University (on a rotating basis). Emergencies include biological/blood spill, chemical/oil/waste release, personal injury, fire, etc.

• Commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.

Required Education and/or Experience

• Master’s Degree in biology, microbiology, molecular biology, or related field or an equivalency of professional training, certifications, and work experience. 

• Minimum of 5 years related work experience or an equivalency of professional training, certifications, and related work experience. 

• Current knowledge and understanding of federal, state and local laws, regulations and standards for the disposition and use of biohazardous agents in biomedical laboratory and animal research facilities. 

• Ability to work independently and to organize and prioritize work assignments. Working knowledge of biomedical laboratory methods, procedures, techniques, facilities, and equipment. 

• Knowledge of recombinant DNA, microbial animal and human pathogens, and biotoxins. 

• Skill in examining and evaluating operations and developing and/or re-engineering operating strategies, systems, and procedures. Ability to communicate technical information to non-technical personnel.

• Working knowledge of academic research laboratories or research experience.

• Ability to communicate complex technical issues to diverse clients.

Preferred Qualifications 

• Doctorate degree in biology, microbiology, molecular biology, or related field or an equivalency of professional training, certifications, and work experience.

• Collaborative customer service attitude and skills. 

• Must take initiative and be organized. 

• Eligible for professional certification. 

• Able to manage multiple priorities to meet deadlines. 

• Demonstrate attention to detail.4-Able to wear negative and positive respirators, and personal protective equipment.

• Maintain medical clearance to work in biohazard high containment laboratories

The Trojan Family Rewards

• As members of the Trojan family, employees are connected by the traditions and history that make us proud to be Trojans. We pride ourselves in creating the best USC experience, and that begins with our employees! We offer a wide variety of benefits and programs that support our staff and their families including:

• Benefits: Dental and vision plans, tuition assistance for our employees and their families, paid time off, flexible spending accounts, retirement plan options, and child care centers.

• Discounts: Save money on USC sporting events, USC Bookstores, wireless plans, travel, accommodations, and local entertainment.

• Career Growth: We are the largest private employer in Los Angeles offering tremendous development opportunities in multiple fields and industries. The Trojan Network connects current and previous members of the Trojan family to create an endless professional network.

• Work Life Balance: You get paid time off the last week of December to spend time with your loved ones, based on business need.

• As an equal opportunity employer, USC values and promotes diversity and inclusion in the workplace. The work culture thrives on mutual respect, trust, and synergy amongst all of its members.

Salary Range: