About The Engine

The Engine opened its doors in June of 2017 to founders of early-stage companies working on disruptive technology. Founded by MIT, The Engine’s mission is to provide resources and comprehensive support to help founders build the next generation of world-changing companies. We recently opened our flagship 155,000 SF building in Central Square, Cambridge in September 2022, which includes over 70,000 SF of bio & chem labs, and maker/fabrication space.

What is the Director of EHS and Lab Operations?

The Director of EHS and Lab Operations is responsible for oversight of our lab program at 750 Main St, including owning all EHS procedures, developing lab partnerships, and creating programs that support early-stage Tough Tech companies to accelerate their growth. They will work closely with The Engine leadership, resident teams, the LabOps team, and safety consultants to optimize the lab program at The Engine. This is a varied role which may require technical expertise in multiple disciplines including chemical safety, biologic safety or other physical agents. Environmental programs and safety programs including industrial hygiene, occupational health, fire safety, lab safety and facilities safety. This role involves strategic planning, budget management, personnel supervision, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and industry standards. We are looking for a proactive individual to carry out a variety of activities, and can balance the flexible environment we work in with the safety and regulations needed in a lab environment. The ideal candidate will have a positive attitude, a customer service orientation, enjoy working in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment, and have extensive experience with EHS. 

Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership and direction for the EHS and Lab program at The Engine
• Manage the Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) program, to include reviewing and approving all work of resident teams, and working closely with safety partners to ensure compliance with applicable EHS and industry standards
• Ensure a safe and compliant working environment, including the implementation and regular review of EHS records, documents and training
• Ensure a safe and compliant working environment, including the oversight of safety protocols
• Uphold, revise, and develop laboratory policies, procedures, and best practices 
• Oversight of lab budget, including cost control and resource allocation
• Prepare and present budget reports and recommendations to The Engine leadership
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide professional development opportunities
• Develop and manage lab-related partnerships in the ecosystem
• Develop and drive strategic priorities for supporting early-stage lab teams, include formalizing access to resources and support, and identifying programmatic needs
• Foster a collaborative and productive work environment
• Engage with regulatory agencies as required

• Mission-oriented and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, results-oriented environment
• Comprehensive knowledge of federal, state and local environmental, health and safety regulations
• Comprehensive knowledge in hazards and prevention of applicable chemical, biologic, and physical agents and processes. Process safety experience is preferred.
• Experience in lab and/or manufacturing environments including NFPA code, process safety, EPA programs, OSHA Programs, and EHS management systems
• Strong verbal and interpersonal skills: Has the ability to clearly communicate with a variety of people (e.g. senior management, laboratory staff, founders, and regulatory agencies)
• Self-motivated to improve upon current systems 
• Flexible/Adaptable: Able to shift strategies and adapt to unexpected change
• Work effectively with others to achieve optimal outcomes
• Ability to organize and manage your time to prioritize according to the demands of the business
• Critical thinker that is curious, able to get to the root cause of issues, and finds solutions to tough problems. 
• Ability to make informed decisions quickly and take ownership of outcomes
• Enjoys helping others succeed 
• Strong leadership and project management skills.
• Knowledge of relevant regulatory requirements and safety protocols.
• Budgeting and financial management experience.

• Bachelor's degree in science (e.g. chemistry, biology) or STEM engineering field.
• A Master’s degree or higher in an applicable field.
• 5 years of EHS experience in a lab and/or manufacturing life science environment
• 10 years of R&D lab management experience
• Relevant industry knowledge
• The ability to work in-person on a full-time basis from Monday through Friday, including some early mornings and evenings as needed
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Google Apps
• Ability to lift 35 lbs.