Biosafety Officer
Job Position Summary:
The National Strategic Research Institute (NSRI), a Department of Defense (DoD)-sponsored University Affiliated Research Center (UARC), is seeking a Biosafety officer at its Melbourne, Florida office and surrounding locations.
The Biosafety Officer will establish and support a Laboratory Safety program for Biological Safety Level 2 (BSL-2) and BSL-3 laboratories under quality program International Standard (ISO 17025) and in compliance with DoD regulations, including DoDM 6055.18. The Biosafety Officer will ensure adequate biosafety training and practices to avoid potential hazards associated with the handling of biological materials, the spread of multi-drug-resistant pathogens and threats of emerging pathogens. The person in this position will develop and monitor adherence to laboratory biosafety programs for a BSL-2 and 3 laboratories, providing related workforce training for laboratory personnel. This position will conduct risk assessments, provide risk mitigation plans, and work cohesively with key laboratory staff, managers and Directors. As needed, the position will serve as the Institutional Responsible Official State for the select agent program (bioterrorism agents), or as an Alternate Responsible Official who assists the RO and assumes the RO responsibilities when the RO is absent. Experience as a Responsible Official (RO) under a Select agent program is highly desired. The position reports to the Research Director of Special Programs.
Based in Melbourne, Florida with a facility near Cocoa Beach Florida, this position is part of a government funded project and employment is contingent upon continued client funding and performance. The successful candidate will have effective and efficient communication skills, knowledge of molecular and microbiology techniques, familiarity with bacterial and viral pathogens experience with good laboratory practices.
Priority Consideration: In alignment with our commitment to staff development and internal mobility, current NSRI employees will be given priority consideration for this vacancy, provided they meet the minimum qualifications. Internal candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
Essential Job duties:
• Educates, trains and provides guidance to in-house staff on performing biosafety risk assessments, using personal protective equipment (PPE), implementing decontamination procedures, packaging and shipping of infectious agents, and reviewing waste management plans, including methods for recycling and disposal of biological hazards
• Encourages a culture of safety and reporting of actual and potential safety issues which may place staff and others at risk; assesses those risks; and implements redundant systems to keep risks to the absolute minimum
• Establishes laboratory policies and procedures that help to ensure the safety of laboratory staff and the provision of a safe physical environment to meet agency biosafety and broader safety requirements. Develops and oversees site-specific workplace safety policies and procedures (including review) and maintains a safety plan that meets agency requirements.
•Provides input on emergency management and response policies and assists in implementation of processes and procedures in coordination with agency management and systems partners
•Collaborates with NSRI Biorisk Management Program Officer and other NSRI Biossafety staff and committee representatives to build an effective biosafety program
•Coordinate specialized training, such as RCRA, DOT, IATA, OSHA HAZWOPER, Wastewater Operator, CPR, First Aid, and AED.
•Conduct Job Safety Analyses for hazardous materials processes.
•Must be highly organized with strong prioritization skills and possess the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Education and Experience Requirements:
•At a minimum, a bachelor's degree in microbiology, Biology, Clinical Laboratory Science, Medical Technology, or related health sciences field
•5+ years of experience in a laboratory setting (Microbiology, Virology, and Molecular, or medical based laboratories preferred)
•Knowledge of BSL-2 and BSL-3 operations and practices
•Experience as a Responsible Official (RO) or Alternate Responsible Official (ARO) preferred.
•Strong verbal and written communication skills
•Ability to establish working relationships with diverse groups
•Must pass appropriate background checks and obtain Department of Defense security clearance
•Related certification (safety related) is preferred
•This position requires the individual to be a U.S. citizen and must be able to obtain and maintain U.S. government security clearance eligibility. This position may also require a Counterintelligence (CI) Polygraph to meet contractual requirements.
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
Desired Qualifications
•Current DoD security clearance
Additional Information:
•This position requires work in secure facilities and handling of classified information.
•Salary: starting at $93,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
•Travel may be required for sponsor meetings, collaboration, and site visits.
Benefits:
•Health
•Dental
• Vision
• ER-paid Life
• Vol Life (employee, spouse, child(ren))
• AD&D
• LTD
• 403b (retirement), with employer matching
• Paid time off
• Paid holidays
About NSRI:
The National Strategic Research Institute (NSRI) is a DoD-designated UARC affiliated with the University of Nebraska. NSRI provides innovative R&D and technical expertise in support of national security. UARCs operate as long-term, strategic partners with the federal government, performing essential work that cannot be competitively outsourced.
This position represents an opportunity to serve the public interest by contributing to the security and resilience of the nation.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
NSRI is an equal opportunity employer and federal contractor. We comply with all applicable laws regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action in employment.
Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
PI272758781
