Hazardous Waste Safety Specialist 1 - Oregon Health & Science University (Job)

Location: Portland, OR

Full-time Position

Closing Date: November 30, 2025

Degree Level(s): BS

Salary Range: $56,035.00 - $84,073.00

Posted: October 30, 2025

Description:

This position will work in the Environmental Health & Safety Department (EHS) with duties that encompass all missions of OHSU. EHS oversees/manages programs and policies aimed at minimizing safety, health, environmental, and regulatory risks to the OHSU community. The EHS program encompasses chemical, biosafety, fire/life safety, radiation safety, as well as general safety oversight across the university. Projects and/or responsibilities in other program areas may also be assigned. This role has a specific focus on Hazardous Waste Management and reports to the Environmental Protection Manager.

Function/Duties of Position

  • Using sound judgment, analytical, organizational, and time management skills, perform independent, accurate and timely management of audits, inspections, projects, issue resolution, and inquiries.
  • Use of advanced knowledge of federal, state, local, and OHSU statutes, regulations, guidance, policies, procedures, and systems to:
    • Collect, categorize, separate, store, and appropriately dispose of hazardous and universal waste.
    • Research issues and advise labs/clinics/facilities on appropriate practices in managing various types of chemical waste.
  • Work with leadership to identify, develop, and implement continuous training and communication to the OHSU community to improve safety, integrity, and related areas at OHSU.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert/consultant to all areas and all levels of the OHSU community.
  • Provide technical and subject matter input on the development of policies and SOPs to EHS leadership.
  • Identify deficiencies, collaborate on corrective action plans, and advise on how to achieve compliance with regulatory requirements in an efficient manner.
  • Implement new policies and procedural changes to affected OHSU members.
  • Participate in continuous quality improvement initiatives in partnership with EHS leadership.
  • Work with EHS leadership, advisory councils, the OHSU community, and other appropriate OHSU units in development and enhancement of safety and integrity at OHSU.
  • Identify weaknesses and deficiencies, and provide input to EHS leadership on how to enhance the quality and efficiency of the work performed.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Skills/Eligibility:

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
  • 3 years of related experience.
  • Valid Driver’s license.
  • Working knowledge of requirements related to safety.
  • Ability to understand biological, chemical and scientific terminology in order to provide thorough and accurate review and guidance.
  • Experience identifying, collecting, processing, and documenting hazardous waste streams.
  • Experience reviewing, interpreting, and providing guidance on regulatory rules and standards.
  • Ability to use and maintain industrial hygiene monitoring instrumentation and supplies.
  • Ability to effectively work both independently and in a team environment.
  • Effective organizational, oral, and written communication skills.
  • Strong multi-tasking skills to meet multiple deadlines and complete numerous projects simultaneously.
  • Ability to interact in a positive, productive manner with research faculty and staff, leadership, and other staff (demonstrating sensitivity, tact, and professionalism).
  • Advanced proficiency with electronic systems and software.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Advanced degree or additional emphasis/training/education in safety or a related scientific discipline (e.g. bachelor’s degree in a related field such as biology, chemistry, or environmental science) strongly preferred.
  • EHS-specific experience at an academic medical center or accredited medical facility.
  • Functional knowledge of current safety requirements.
  • Demonstrated leadership and formal/informal influence skills.
  • Advanced knowledge in federal and state laws, regulations, and guidance relating to safety and related areas.
  • CIH, CHMM, CSP preferred.

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