Chemical Safety Research Specialist

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign; Urbana (IL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is seeking a Research Specialist in Chemical Safety within the Division of Research Safety to provide technical guidance for the safe use of regulated materials and ensure compliance with applicable regulations across campus.

The role partners with faculty, researchers, and staff to develop and implement safe experimental practices, conduct risk assessments, and support responsible research while maintaining a strong safety culture on campus.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, chemical biology or a closely related scientific or technical field.
• 2+ years experience working with hazardous chemicals in a laboratory environment.
• Experience performing risk assessments in areas with hazardous materials.
• Undergraduate internships and research may count toward experience.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate complex research protocols involving hazardous materials or specialized equipment.
• Perform risk assessments to determine controls and support safe operations.
• Serve as liaison between campus researchers and institutional compliance committees.
• Collaborate with Principal Investigators and lab staff to identify hazards and develop safety procedures.
• Provide training on decontamination, containment equipment, and waste handling.

Skills

Hazardous chemicals handling

Risk assessment

Laboratory safety

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in chemistry or related field

Job description

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is seeking a Research Specialist in Chemical Safety within the Division of Research Safety to provide technical guidance for the safe use of regulated materials and ensure compliance with applicable regulations across campus.

The role partners with faculty, researchers, and staff to develop and implement safe experimental practices, conduct risk assessments, and support responsible research while maintaining a strong safety culture on campus.