Occupational Health & Safety Director

University of Kentucky; Lexington (KY); On-site; USD 83,000 - 142,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Kentucky in Lexington, KY is seeking an Occupational Health & Safety Director to lead safety programs, set strategy, and supervise the OH&S team. You will partner with campus partners to uphold compliance with laws, regulations, and policies while advancing a culture of safety.

This role demands a MS degree, 8 years of related experience, and proven leadership. You will shape institutional safety standards and coordinate across campus locations to prevent injuries and protect

Qualifications

• MS degree required.
• 8 years related experience.
• Supervisory experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Direct and oversee occupational safety programs and departmental staff.
• Ensure a safe environment for faculty, staff, students, and visitors while maintaining compliance.
• Design and implement programs to prevent injuries and illnesses through anticipation, recognition, evaluation and control.

Education

MS

Job description

Posting Details

Job Title

Occupational Health & Safety Director

Requisition Number

RE56456

Department Name

3DE40:Occupational Health and Safety

Work Location

Lexington, KY

Grade Level

50

Salary Range

$83,283-141,565/year

Type of Position

Staff

Position Time Status

Full-Time

Required Education

MS

Click here for more information about equivalencies

https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalencies

Required Related Experience

8 yrs

Required License/Registration/Certification

None

Physical Requirements

Ability to work in an office environment. Performs work in a sedentary position. Reports to meetings at different locations both on campus on off campus. Lifting, pushing, and/or pulling objects up to 10 lbs. Standing, walking, and sitting. Sitting at computer workstation for extended periods.

Shift

Monday – Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm (40.0 hours/week)

Job Summary

The position is responsible for the management and overall direction and oversight of occupational safety programs, strategy, and departmental staff activities along with related organizational performance standards to support the University’s mission. Ensures a safe environment for faculty, staff, students, and visitors and maintains institutional compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, guidelines, and institutional policies in the areas of occupational safety and industrial hygiene. Designs and implements programs and activities designed to help prevent injuries and illnesses through anticipation, recognition, evaluation, and control.

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?

Yes

Preferred Education/Experience

Degree emphasis in Occupational Health & Safety, Industrial Hygiene, Environmental Health & Safety, Public Health, Safety Engineering, Basic Sciences, or related field.

Certified Industrial Hygienist ( CIH ), Certified Safety Professional ( CSP ), or other relevant professional certification preferred. Drivers’ License preferred.

Deadline to Apply

11/25/2026

Our University Community

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.