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Company: UT Dallas
Location: Richardson, TX
Career Level: Associate
Industries: Government, Nonprofit, Education

Description

The Environmental Safety Specialist is responsible for providing technical, logistical, and safety support across The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) campus to support Research, Campus, and Environmental Safety operations. This role applies specialized knowledge, skills, and abilities related to the safe and compliant handling of chemical, biological, and radioactive materials, from initial receipt on campus through to final off-site transport.

The Environmental Safety Specialist oversees the daily operations of UTD's hazardous material and waste programs and supports departmental responsibilities related to waste management. This includes the collection, transportation, and disposal of hazardous materials in accordance with applicable state and federal regulations, as well as University policies.

The successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to develop and maintain strong, collaborative, and professional relationships with researchers and University support personnel, while actively promoting and sustaining a culture of safety.

Minimum Education and Experience

BS in a related field. Three (3) or more years of related experience or a combination of education and experience. Should have the ability to carry 50 lbs. and walk extensively. Must possess and maintain a valid Texas Driver's License and acceptable driving record.

Preferred Education and Experience

Preferred Education and Experience

  • Master's degree in Environmental Science
  • 3 years of experience in environmental programs
  • Direct experience coordinating hazardous materials spill response programs
  • Experience developing and delivering hazardous materials training
  • Experience working with local and federal regulatory agencies
  • OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER certification
  • Familiarity with FEMA and DOT regulations is a plus

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

  • Strong understanding of federal and local environmental regulations
  • Ability to work independently with general direction to complete tasks and projects
  • Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to function effectively as part of a team
  • Strong customer service orientation and willingness to support students, staff, and faculty
  • Exceptional organizational and time management skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to communicate technical subject matter effectively to faculty and senior leadership
  • Proficiency in web-based systems and standard office software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite)
  • Ability to thrive in a collaborative and team-oriented work environment
  • General awareness of process improvement methodologies, such as Lean Six Sigma


Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Identify safety hazards, assess associated risks, mitigate unsafe conditions, prepare for emergencies, and promote continuous improvement in daily safety performance within the University environment.
  • Demonstrate a high level of proficiency in chemistry, chemical handling, biohazard management, and implementation of risk reduction and hazard control measures.
  • Engage effectively with a wide range of customers, utilizing strong customer service and communication skills.
  • Apply expertise in chemical and biological waste generation and handling procedures to collaborate proactively with the UTD Chemical Hygiene Officer and stakeholders in developing waste stream preclassification guidance.
  • Process hazardous materials and waste from generation sites by verifying contents, sorting, weighing, labeling, and storing according to hazard class and chemical compatibility.
  • Ensure accuracy and quality assurance in the management and storage of hazardous and unwanted materials; confirm proper packaging, labeling, and compatibility; complete all related documentation and data entry, including inspections, generation logs, and reporting; manage necessary supplies and equipment.
  • Inspect and evaluate incoming shipments of chemical and biological materials; reject damaged items, record any shortages, and ensure proper classification, inventory, and routing to appropriate departments.
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of regulations, standards, and best practices related to environmental programs; prepare required documentation to comply with State, EPA, and DOT regulations.
  • Coordinate hazardous waste collection and disposal services with University-approved vendors.
  • Provide technical guidance on hazardous materials management to other University departments as needed.
  • Participate in and support the University's hazardous materials spill response program.
  • Develop and deliver training, materials, and resources to educate customers on risk reduction and safe practices during waste generation activities.
  • Maintain organization and cleanliness of shared operational and equipment storage areas.
  • Perform additional related duties as assigned.


Additional Information

Work Notice:
Work will be performed on-site and in person.

What We Can Offer
UT Dallas is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer an employee-friendly work environment with a comprehensive benefit package, including:
Competitive Salary
Tuition Benefits
Internal Training
Medical insurance – including 100% paid employee medical coverage for full-time employees
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Long and short-term disability
Retirement Plan Options
Paid time off
Paid Holidays All UT Dallas employees have access to various professional development opportunities, including a membership to Academic Impressions, LinkedIn Learning, and UT Dallas Bright Leaders Program.

Visit https://hr.utdallas.edu/employees/benefits/ for more information.

Important Message

1) All employees serve as a representative of the University and are expected to display respect, civility, professional courtesy, consideration of others and discretion in all interactions with members of the UT Dallas community and the general public.

2) The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to providing an educational, living, and working environment that is welcoming, respectful, and inclusive of all members of the university community. UT Dallas does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its services, programs, activities, employment, and education, including in admission and enrollment. The University is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodation in the employment application and interview process, contact the ADA Coordinator. For inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies, contact the Title IX Coordinator.


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