What are the responsibilities and job description for the Hazardous Materials and Waste Specialist position at University of California - Los Angeles Health?
Under the direction of the Director of Environmental Health & Safety (EHS), and with guidance from the UCLA Health Hazardous Materials Program Manager within the Office of Environmental Health & Safety, this role serves as the Safety Specialist for UCLA West Valley Hospital, including all medical centers and clinic locations. Responsible for implementing the Hazardous Materials and Hazards Waste programs for UCLA Health and conduct, coordinate or assist with activities in support of the Fire/Life Safety, Indoor Air Quality, General Safety, Emergency Preparedness programs and all other Environment of Care programs.
Assist in ensuring that programs comply with applicable Joint Commission Standards and federal, state and local regulations. Assist to ensure a safe, healthful and secure environment for staff, patients and visitors. Advise the medical center community regarding regulatory responsibilities and requirements as they pertain to hazardous, medical, universal and solid waste. Assist in ensuring that the UCLA Health Environment of Care policies as they relate to hazardous materials are appropriate, current and adhered to.
- Strong working knowledge of hazardous materials, chemicals, hazardous waste management, and applicable regulatory requirements.
- Understanding of chemistry principles, laboratory environments, and hazardous materials and waste regulations.
- Experience developing and managing environmental health and safety programs to ensure regulatory compliance.
- In-depth knowledge of hospital operations and how to maintain compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, accreditation standards, policies, and procedures.
- Extensive experience overseeing Occupational Safety Programs, including IIPP, ergonomics, hazardous materials, fire safety, and respiratory protection.
- Recent hands-on experience in injury prevention, occupational safety, ergonomics, hazardous materials, and other EHS programs.
- Knowledge of industrial hygiene, environmental health, and infection control practices.
- Understanding of workplace ergonomics, proper PPE use, and safe practices related to airborne pathogens, bloodborne pathogens, chemical exposures, and non-ionizing radiation.
- Advanced ability to interpret national and state regulations, hospital safety codes, and Joint Commission standards.
- Knowledge of Medical Center safety policies and procedures.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare clear policies, reports, and presentations.
- Ability to conduct and lead training sessions and effectively present safety information to diverse audiences.
- Demonstrated ability to build collaborative working relationships with staff, leadership, administrators, and regulatory agencies.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access), databases, email systems, internet tools, and Storyline 360.
- Bachelor's degree in Health and Safety, Engineering, Public Health, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Professional certification in health and safety or a related field preferred.
- Valid California driver's license required within three months of hire and participation in the DMV Pull Notice Program.
- Safety-related experience within a healthcare setting.
- Advanced knowledge of hazardous waste regulations, Hazardous Materials Business Plans (HMBP), California Environmental Reporting System (CERS), fire codes, and medical waste regulations.
University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status. For the complete University of California nondiscrimination and affirmative action policy, see: UC Nondiscrimination & Affirmative Action Policy.