Safety & Security Officer / Laboratory Coordinator

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission.

At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

Here is what we offer:

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us!

https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness

We are seeking a Safety & Security Officer / Laboratory Coordinator is responsible for overseeing laboratory operations, safety compliance, building security, and emergency preparedness within the College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA).
This position integrates laboratory coordination and instructional support with comprehensive safety and security oversight. The incumbent serves as the primary liaison between faculty, students, graduate assistants, Environmental Health & Safety (EHS), Facilities Management, and Campus Public Safety to ensure that laboratories and facilities operate safely, efficiently, and in
full compliance with university, federal, and state regulations.
This position is designated as an essential employee due to responsibilities related to emergency response, laboratory safety, and building operations.

ESSENTIAL DESIGNATION & WORK REQUIREMENTS
This position is designated as an essential, on-site role.
• Regular on-site presence is required
• Remote work is not permitted
• A department-issued mobile phone will be provided
• Must be available for urgent escalations and emergency response
• May be required to work outside of normal business hours based on operational needs
• Must be able to lift and/or move items up to 50 pounds

SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY:
May provide functional supervision and training to student workers, graduate assistants, and laboratory personnel. This role does not include formal supervisory authority unless otherwise designated.

NATURE AND SCOPE:
This position combines: Laboratory Coordination and Instructional Support
• Oversight of teaching laboratory operations
• Equipment management and maintenance
• Faculty and student support
• ABET compliance for laboratory instruction
• Safety, Security, and Compliance Oversight
• Laboratory safety management
• Building access and security systems coordination
• Emergency preparedness planning
• Regulatory compliance and reporting

The role requires a high level of operational judgment, responsiveness during emergencies, and the
ability to balance academic support with regulatory and risk management responsibilities.

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES
I. Laboratory Operations and Academic Support
• Maintain, organize, and oversee equipment and supplies for teaching laboratories
• Ensure laboratory equipment is properly operated, maintained, calibrated, and upgraded
• Coordinate laboratory sessions in collaboration with faculty and teaching assistants
• Assist faculty and students with laboratory activities, research, and co-curricular
initiatives
• Maintain accurate inventory of laboratory supplies and equipment
• Support research, teaching, and capstone design activities
• Ensure laboratory procedures meet ABET accreditation standards
• Train faculty, staff, and students on proper and safe equipment use
• Serve as liaison between instructors and students to ensure effective lab operations

II. Laboratory Safety Oversight
• Ensure compliance with University, OSHA, EPA, NFPA, and other regulations
• Conduct laboratory inspections and hazard assessments
• Develop and maintain safety manuals and standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Maintain Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and ensure proper chemical handling and storage
• Coordinate safety training (chemical hygiene, fire safety, emergency response)
• Enforce safety protocols in collaboration with EHS and College leadership
• Maintain and inspect safety equipment (eyewash stations, fire extinguishers, etc.)
• Document and report incidents, near-misses, and safety audits

III. Building Security and Facilities Coordination
• Coordinate with Campus Public Safety and Facilities Management
• Develop after-hours access protocols and security procedures
• Serve as liaison for building safety and security concern

IV. Emergency Preparedness and Incident Response
• Develop and maintain emergency response and evacuation plans
• Serve as first responder for laboratory or facility incidents
• Ensure timely communication during emergencies
• Maintain records of incidents and corrective actions
• Prepare risk mitigation and safety reports

V. Compliance and Reporting
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations
• Maintain inspection, training, and incident documentation
• Prepare reports for leadership
• Support accreditation and regulatory reviews

VI. Administrative and Team Responsibilities
• Collaborate with chairs, faculty, staff, EHS, Facilities, and Public Safety
• Process University documentation and administrative tasks
• Perform additional duties as assigned

CORE COMPENTENCIES
• Strong knowledge of laboratory operations and safety regulations (OSHA, EPA, NFPA)
• High level of computer literacy (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, systems)
• Ability to manage building access and security systems
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to respond effectively in emergency situations
• Strong organizational and multitasking ability
• Commitment to professional development

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Environmental Health & Safety, Occupational Safety, or related
field
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience
• Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory safety and operations
• Experience in academic, research, or industrial laboratory environments
• Familiarity with OSHA, EPA, and NFPA standards

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Master’s degree in a related field
• Professional certifications (CSP, CIH, or similar)
• Experience with ABET-accredited programs
• Experience with building access/security systems

WORKING CONDITIONS
• Requires on-site presence
• Exposure to laboratory environments, chemicals, and equipment
• Must be available during emergencies and critical incidents
• Requires physical activity, including standing, walking, and lifting materials up to 50 pounds

DISCLAIMER
This position description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The University reserves the right to modify the duties as necessary to meet operational needs. This document does not constitute a contract of employment.

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure

Compensation Range: $80,000 - $82,500