Lead Biohazard Waste Handling Specialist - Emory National Primate Research Center

Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the excellence of our academic community.

The Division of Health and Safety within the Emory National Primate Research Center at Emory University (EPC) is currently seeking a full-time Biohazard Waste Handling Specialist, Lead to join our team. Our work involves maintaining consistent and compliant procedures across several key safety functions at the Main Center of the Emory National Primate Research Center. This includes the routine collection and proper handling of biohazardous waste in accordance with regulatory and institutional guidelines, conducting weekly inspections and flushing of eyewash stations to ensure they are fully operational and ready for emergency use, and managing the distribution of personal protective equipment (PPE) to support a safe working environment for all staff.

 

The ideal candidate should demonstrate strong attention to detail, reliability, and strict adherence to established safety protocols to ensure the facility remains compliant and staff are adequately protected. They should also maintain a positive attitude and a willingness to support team operations.

 

Additionally, the candidate should be open to learning and developing basic computer skills, as the role may involve logging activities, tracking personal protective equipment and related records, and communicating electronically. A proactive mindset and willingness to learn new processes will be essential for success in this position.

 

Collaborate. Innovate. Serve. These three simple words capture what we do at the Emory National Primate Research Center at Emory University to help advance science and improve the health and well-being of humans and non-human primates. If you are someone willing to learn and have familiarity with safety procedures related to biohazardous waste handling, established safety protocols, and maintaining compliance within a research or healthcare environment, this is an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful impact. In this role, you will help support a safe and compliant workplace, ultimately contributing to efforts that indirectly save and improve lives within the science and research community.

 

Dedicated to discovering causes, preventions, treatments, and cures of disease, Emory National Primate Research Center is improving human and animal health and lives worldwide. One of seven NPRCs funded by the NIH, EPC conducts studies that make breakthrough discoveries possible. Learn more at http://enprc.emory.edu

 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Supervises and handles biohazardous waste management for research facilities, including waste pick-up, documentation, and interaction with external waste management company.
• Trains and provides direction to staff.
• Orders and stocks personal protective equipment, conducts operational checks of eye wash stations, and stocks lab coats for facility.
• May assist with animal research protocols and a variety of administrative responsibilities such as data entry, proofreading, filing, copying, preparing research forms, and labeling various items.
• Performs related responsibilities as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• A high school diploma or equivalent.
• Three years of directly related experience which includes the proper handling of biohazardous waste materials.
• Experience functioning in a lead or supervisory capacity.

PREFERRED/DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational abilities.
• Reliable and able to work independently.
• Able to follow strict safety and regulatory guidelines.
• Basic computer skills for logging and tracking activities or willingness to learn.
• Experience with or willingness to learn biohazardous waste handling procedures.
• Proactive and team-oriented mindset.
• Effective time management skills.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT: 

• Work schedule is 7:30 am – 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday; no regular weekends, with occasional coverage during Winter Break.
• Operate a golf cart to assist with removal of biohazardous waste and transport of supplies.
• Use a portable radio to communicate with teammates and other departments.
• Operate laundry facilities to clean reusable safety equipment.
• Work in an indoor/outdoor environment, including exposure to inclement weather conditions.
• Potential exposure to biohazardous waste (blood and tissue) and sharps.
• Work environment includes hazards or physical risks, requiring adherence to basic safety precautions.
• Physical requirements include bending, kneeling, pushing, moving heavy boxes, squatting, and occasionally lifting up to 75 lbs.

PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING STATEMENT: 

 

The Emory National Primate Research Center (EPC), in conjunction with Emory University, conducts pre-employment screenings for all positions. These screenings may include an Information Network Associates (INA) and criminal background check, and verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications. In addition, the process may include a drug screening with health assessment, and review and mandate for various vaccinations. Updated COVID-19 vaccinations may be necessary for specific research projects. 

 

NOTE: Position tasks are required to be performed in-person at an Emory University location; working remote is not an option. Emory reserves the right to change this status with notice to employee.

Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in university programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action (for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities). Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322. Telephone: 404-727-9867 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD).

 

Emory University is committed to ensuring equal access and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to seek a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at accessibility@emory.edu or call 404-727-9877 (Voice) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). We kindly ask that requests be made at least seven business days in advance to allow adequate time for coordination.

Not ready to apply? Connect with us for general consideration!