Hazardous Waste Program Lead — Safety & Compliance

uchicago; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 95,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

The Hazardous Waste Manager (HWM) provides leadership for the hazardous waste program across the University of Chicago's research enterprise. The HWM provides professional expertise in University operations to ensure compliance with applicable regulatory requirements, best practices, and University policies as they pertain to the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials.

Reporting to the Associate Director of Chemical Safety, this role supports safe laboratory practices in

Qualifications

• College or university degree in a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in hazardous materials management or a related discipline.
• Knowledge of federal, state and local regulations.
• Ability to lead safety programs and respond to emergencies.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain policies related to hazardous materials management.
• Conduct inspections and audits of facilities and work practices; recommend corrective actions.
• Supervise contracted hazardous waste vendor and ensure compliance.
• Maintain records related to hazardous waste generation and waste streams.
• Prepare regulatory reports (EPA forms, waste reports) as required.
• Assist in decommissioning laboratory spaces and ensure proper waste handling.
• Monitor expenditures and support budgeting for compliance activities.
• Provide safety feedback and coordinate remedial actions as needed.
• Assist in chemical spill response and on-call emergency support.
• Collaborate with medical center EHS and campus departments on safety.

Skills

Hazardous materials

Regulatory compliance

Safety leadership

Emergency response

Audits

Education

College degree in related field

Tools

Regulatory reporting tools

Contract management systems

Job description

The Hazardous Waste Manager (HWM) provides leadership for the hazardous waste program across the University of Chicago's research enterprise. The HWM provides professional expertise in University operations to ensure compliance with applicable regulatory requirements, best practices, and University policies as they pertain to the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials.

Reporting to the Associate Director of Chemical Safety, this role supports safe laboratory practices in