RBL Biosafety Officer - Military veterans preferred

RBL Biosafety Officer

The RBL Biosafety Officer serves the Regional Biocontainment Laboratory (RBL) within the Center for Vaccine Research (CVR) as a technical expert on matters related to biosafety and biosecurity. The position reviews, and, as needed, originates manuals, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and other guidance necessary to ensure compliance with federal, state, local, and institutional regulations. Additionally, the RBL Biosafety Officer advises faculty, staff, and students of best practices in biosafety in a variety of research scenarios. The position reviews and presents documentation to the University Biohazards Committee on behalf of researchers working with risk group 3 pathogens.

The position requires successful enrollment in the University of Pittsburgh’s Animal Exposure Surveillance Program, Tuberculosis Protection Program, Measles Protection program, and other medical surveillance as dictated by the active research inside the RBL. In addition, the candidate must successfully complete a Department of Justice Security Risk Assessment for work with Select Agents and Toxins, as required by federal regulation; and must maintain good standing in the University of Pittsburgh’s Suitability Assessment program for access to Tier 1 Select Agents.

Job duties include, but are not limited to:

• Serves as the primary trainer for faculty, staff, students, and external visitors to the RBL. Evaluates readiness for work in biocontainment with Select Agent pathogens and grants access to regulated space when trainees are deemed proficient in work practices.
• Develops and implements drills and exercises to test emergency response, security, and biosafety plans serving the RBL.
• Provides guidance to RBL researchers concerning biosafety, biosecurity, and Select Agent regulatory requirements.
• Reviews and revises manuals, SOPs, checklists, presentations, and other material annually, or as required by regulatory changes.
• Ensures RBL user compliance with rules, regulations, policies, and procedures surrounding the Select Agent Program.
• Inspects the RBL for potential biosafety hazards non-compliance with federal regulations. Takes corrective measures as needed.
• Investigates incidents and develops applicable plans for improvement. Assists in reporting these incidents, as required, to the appropriate regulatory bodies.
• Serves as a primary liaison with the NBL/RBL Network and plays a critical role in Federal Select Agent Program inspections. Serves as a member of the Suitability Review Panel for access to Tier 1 Select Agent space. Serves as an Alternate Responsible Official for Select Agents.

Job Summary

Serves the University as a technical expert on matters related to biosafety and biohazardous materials. Reviews, advises, and develops policies and programs necessary to ensure proper biosafety measures. Supports and facilitates across multiple relevant University committees.

Essential Functions

The position requires excellent communication, attention to detail, and organizational skills.

Physical Effort

The incumbent must be capable of adequately performing all duties outlines while wearing respiratory protection and other personal protective equipment required to enter BSL-3 facilities that will include, at a minimum, protective shoe coverings, protective suits, liquid barrier gloves, eye and face protection and chair coverings. The incumbent must successfully fulfill a confidential medical screening to determine they do not have a medical condition that may place the candidate at undue health risk by entering the RBL or that may create a medical contra-indication for any required vaccines.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.

Assignment Category: Full-time regular

Job Classification: Staff.Biosafety Specialist

Job Family: Safety & Security

Job Sub Family: Environmental Health & Safety

Campus: Pittsburgh

Minimum Education Level Required: Bachelor's Degree

Minimum Years of Experience Required: 2

Will this position accept substitution in lieu of education or experience: Combination of education and relevant experience will be considered in lieu of education and/ or experience requirement.

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Work Arrangement: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Hiring Range: TBD Based Upon Qualifications

Relocation_Offered: No

Visa Sponsorship Provided: No

Background Check: For position finalists, employment with the University will require successful completion of a background check

Child Protection Clearances: The following PA Act 153 clearances and background checks are required prior to commencement of employment and as a condition of continued employment: PA State Police Criminal Record Check, FBI Criminal Record Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance.

Required Documents: Resume

Optional Documents: Cover Letter




Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

PI270653273