Director-Research Safety
The primary accountabilities below are intended to describe the general content of and requirements of this position and are not intended to be an exhaustive statement of duties.
Description
To provide leadership and oversight to the research safety group of UAB Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S). To develop, implement and oversee programs, policies and procedures to ensure a safe and healthy work and study environment for the UAB research areas.
ESSENTIAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:
· Leads, designs, and manages the implementation of UAB's Research Safety Program, encompassing Biosafety, Laboratory Chemical & Physical Safety, and Radiation Safety Programs. Works collaboratively with EH&S program leaders, staff, and the academic community to identify, assess, and mitigate radiological, biological, chemical, and physical hazards.
· Provides oversight and guidance to leaders of the Biosafety, Laboratory & Chemical Safety and Radiation Safety Programs regarding issues that require escalation as well as productivity and personnel issues.
· Cultivates strategic partnerships within and beyond UAB EH&S to advance research safety initiatives. Maintains active collaboration and engagement with academic leaders, researchers, and peers across the university.
· Designs, implements, manages, and evaluates research safety programs, policies, and procedures to ensure compliance with review requirements. Establishes and monitors key performance indicators (KPIs), providing regular performance reports to the Executive Director of EH&S.
· Partners with national peers to establish, enhance, and uphold a national reputation for best practices in research compliance programs. Actively participates in regional and national professional associations.
· Oversees the creation and delivery of training for laboratory-related topics; laboratory incident investigations and lessons learned; and develops/revises and delivers integrated laboratory safety programs and services.
· Serves on the Research Safety Compliance Programs (including the Biosafety Program or IBC, which includes Dual Use Research of Concern, IACUC, Radiation Safety, Laser Safety, SEBLAB).
· Stays updated on relevant laws, regulations, and accreditation standards. Advises UAB EH&S leadership on the impact of legislative and regulatory changes affecting research and collaborates with program leaders to develop strategies for compliance.
· Performs other duties as assigned.
Leadership:
Oversees employees typically engaged in similar tasks or work.
· Occasionally performs the tasks of those under supervision.
· Holds HR responsibilities for direct reports (consults with manager or director).
· Offers input for budget preparation.
Leads the department as the first-line manager.
· Distributes resources based on priorities and budget constraints.
· Holds HR responsibilities for direct reports.
· Collaborates with the Director on operational matters, including fiscal issues.
Manages functional area managers.
· Usually reports to a Director.
· Oversees complex and diverse tasks.
· Holds significant budgetary and expenditure authority.
· Formulates and proposes policies for the department or program.
· Assumes substantial HR responsibilities for staff.
Accountable for one or more departments or programs.
· Usually reports to a senior executive officer (e.g., VP).
· Directs exempt/professional and/or non-exempt employees.
· Oversees intricate and diverse tasks.
· Assumes complete budget responsibilities for respective department(s) or program(s).
· Recommends and authorizes policy implementation for the department or program.
· Holds complete HR responsibility for staff direct reports.
Independent Judgement/Problem Solving:
· Develops strategic goals, plans, and policies for a specific area of responsibility. Sets broad objectives and is responsible for overall results. Has the authority to make independent decisions on significant matters. Requires a high degree of independent judgment and problem-solving for complex issues.
Customer Service Relationships:
· Predicts customer needs and motivates others to provide excellent service. Handles sensitive issues and ensures problem resolution. Sets customer service standards and establishes feedback systems for improvement. Holds themselves accountable for service excellence.
STARTING ANNUAL RATE OF PAY: $89,880.00 - $135,000.00 (Commensurate with experience & qualifications)