What are the responsibilities and job description for the Hazardous Materials Specialist position at Baylor Careers?
What We Are Looking For
The Hazardous Waste Specialist is responsible for managing hazardous process waste generated by academic and research operations. This position combines field-based responsibilities--including the collection, classification, and packaging of chemical and hazardous waste--with professional-level duties such as regulatory compliance, training, inspections, and procedural development. The role requires specialized scientific knowledge, independent decision-making, and the ability to interpret and apply complex environmental regulations.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science or a related scientific field.
- Minimum of two years of experience in hazardous waste management, laboratory safety, or environmental compliance.
- Knowledge of federal and state environmental regulations (RCRA, DOT, EPA).
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and environmental management software.
- Valid driver's license and ability to wear required PPE.
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
- Regular exposure to chemicals, odors, and hazardous substances.
- Must be able to wear respiratory protection and other PPE.
- Work involves standing, walking, bending, and handling containers and equipment.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Masters degree and 5 years of relevant work experience
- OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER certification.
- DOT Hazardous Materials Shipping certification.
- Experience in an academic or research institution.
- CHMM (Certified Hazardous Materials Manager) credential.
*All applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
What You Will Do
Hazardous Waste Handling and Collection
- Collect, identify, segregate, label, and package hazardous waste from laboratories and satellite accumulation areas
- Transport waste to the central accumulation area in accordance with DOT and RCRA requirements
- Oversee safe storage and containment practices to prevent spills and ensure regulatory compliance
Compliance and Documentation
- Maintain waste inventories, profiles, manifests, and inspection logs
- Conduct audits of waste accumulation areas and implement corrective actions
- Ensure adherence to applicable local, state, and federal regulations (e.g., RCRA, EPA, DOT)
Training and Outreach
- Assist with the development and delivery of training sessions on hazardous waste handling, segregation, labeling, and storage
- Serve as a technical resource to laboratory personnel and teaching staff
- Create written SOPs and waste disposal guidelines tailored to university operations
Program Development and Technical Oversight
- Monitor hazardous waste trends and recommend improvements in waste minimization and recycling programs
- Collaborate with researchers and departments to evaluate the regulatory impact of new procedures or materials
- Support emergency response planning and coordinate spill response and decontamination efforts
Regulatory Reporting and Contractor Coordination
- Assist in the preparation of regulatory reports (e.g., Biennial Report, Tier II, EPCRA notifications)
- Coordinate hazardous waste pickups with licensed vendors and oversee proper shipping documentation
Other
- Perform all other duties as assigned to support Baylor’s mission
- Ability to comply with university policies
- Maintain regular and punctual attendance
What You Can Expect
As part of the Baylor family, eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, generous time off, tuition remission, and outstanding automatic retirement contributions. Baylor has a comprehensive benefits plan that supports you and your family’s wellbeing and allows you to be a part of the life of a vibrant and active college campus. To learn more, go to Baylor Benefits & Advantages.
Explore & Engage
Learn more about Baylor and our strategic vision, Baylor in Deeds. Also, explore our great hometown of Waco and the many opportunities to engage locally. If you are new to Central Texas, This is Waco!