The Department of Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) at Stanford University supports and advances the teaching, learning and research activities at Stanford by promoting a safe and healthy campus environment. Comprised of over 10 technical groups with more than 50 specialists who work in the field with top researchers, faculty, staff, and students, we focus on practical safety and environmental solutions by working with our campus partners in a process of shared learning to support the mission and research of Stanford University. The work environment is team-oriented, collaborative, deadline-driven, and vibrant.
Our VPDoR Diversity Journey:
We create a hub of innovation through the power of diversity of disciplines and people.
We provide equitable access and opportunity to all members of the community in order to do their best work, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
We listen to and value all colleagues who bring diverse perspectives to the advancement and development of a respectful community.
We promote a culture of belonging, equity, and safety.
We embed these values in excellence of education, research, and operation.
POSITION SUMMARY:
The EH&S Research Safety Health Physics (HP) group develops and administers the institutional radiation safety, laser safety, and electromagnetic safety programs. The Health Physics program seeks a Laser Safety Specialist to assist Stanford's Laser Safety Officer with program development and implementation, focused on enabling principal investigators and researchers to apply best practices for work with complex laser systems in laboratories. If you are a knowledgeable laser safety practitioner who is preferably also an experienced user of class IIIB/IV laser systems in research settings, then this may be the ideal career opportunity to for you!
Please note: This is a 100% FTE, fixed-term position with an initial term of one (1) year. For consideration, please submit a resume with your application. All final candidates must complete a background check.
CORE DUTIES:
Review, audit, and oversee the use of radioactive material, level of exposure, and safety requirements in research laboratories, medical institutions, and/or other operational environments by: evaluating and investigating radioactive machines for usage; and safety level; supervising receipt and disposal of radioactive materials; calibrating radiation-producing and detecting equipment and helping minimize radiation exposure; performing periodic safety and instrumentation inspections, contamination and radiation surveys; and ensuring work is performed in compliance.
Provide training to staff, researchers, graduate students, or others utilizing or working with radiation-related machines/work areas.
Revise and contribute to the development of safety policies/procedures; document radiological protection measures, and submission to radiation protection manager.
May provide training and coaching to health physicist technicians and other workers.
Other core responsibilities of this position include:
Help administer the Controlled Laser Authorization (CLA) process whereby researchers are authorized to work with specific laser systems, including review of laser set-ups and standard operating procedures; engineering controls such as curtains, interlocks and safety systems; and training.
Partner with Research Safety staff, PIs, researchers, and research leadership to continually improve the laser safety program.
Develop, manage, and maintain laser safety program documentation.
Use the Safety Stratus IT platform to maintain program data, track CLA status and generate reports; assist researchers with using the system.
Evaluate the effectiveness of the laser safety program using safety management system frameworks and techniques.
Maintain current knowledge and expertise in the field of laser safety; carry out individual professional development plan; remain abreast of new developments in the field and advise on their application to Stanford research environments.
Conduct walkthroughs, observations, and assessments of laser systems.
Assist researchers with requests for hazard mitigation controls.
Investigate laser safety incidents to identify root causes; recommend, implement, and track corrective and preventive actions
Advise researchers on the interpretation and application of Stanford's laser safety program and associated standards, including ANSI Z136.1 Safe Use of Lasers.
Recommend and approve personal protective equipment, particularly laser safety eyewear.
Partner with Research Safety staff, PIs, researchers, and research leadership to continually improve the laser safety program.
Participate in the faculty-led laser safety committee.
Participate as a laser safety subject matter expert in the EH&S plans review process for new and modified lab installations.
Develop training materials and job aids to ensure consistent safe practices among researchers; collaborate with EH&S Digital Services to develop online training; deliver instructor-led training.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Education & Experience:
Bachelor's degree in health physics, radiation physics, medical physics, nuclear engineering, or related field. Three years of applicable experience in health physics and program management performing duties similar to those listed above.
Degrees in physical science, engineering, occupational safety, or industrial hygiene, or the equivalent combination of education and experience also desirable.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Demonstrated experience implementing and administering radiation safety programs.
Demonstrated ability to review and evaluate usage and safety level of radioactive material and machines.
Demonstrated ability calibrating radiation-producing and detecting equipment and performing safety inspections.
In-depth knowledge of radiation protection regulations at federal, state, and local levels.
Demonstrated experience in the design of radiation shielding, safety devices, and radiation machines.
Ability to effectively communicate orally and in writing with diverse audiences and to explain technical concepts clearly and concisely.
Desired Qualifications:
Hands-on experience as a researcher working with complex laser systems.
Knowledgeable about management of safety hazards associated with laser systems, such as electrical safety, control of hazardous energy (lockout/tagout), machine guarding, etc.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Certifications and Licenses:
Certification, or eligibility to pursue certification, in laser safety (CLSO), safety (CSP), and/or industrial hygiene (CIH) desired but not required.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:
Occasionally stand/walk; frequently sitting; rarely kneel/crawl; occasionally twist/bend/stoop/squat, reach/work above shoulders; frequently grasp lightly/fine manipulation; rarely grasp forcefully; frequently perform desk-based computer tasks, use a telephone, write by hand; rarely sort/file paperwork or parts, scrub/sweep/mop; occasionally operate foot and/or hand controls.
Frequently lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh up to 10 pounds; rarely lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh 11-40 pounds or more.
Able to wear a respirator and perform duties while wearing.
Auditory acuity to hear clicks and buzzers for detection equipment.
Ability to obtain and maintain a valid California non-commercial class driver license. Ability to drive day and night.
* - Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of the job.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
May be exposed to radioactive materials and/or ionizing radiation, Class IIIB or IV lasers, magnetic or electromagnetic fields, and lead.
May be exposed to biohazards (urine, blood, feces) while working with patients and/or animals in ERs, ORs or IRs (interventional radiology). Must gown up for sterile environments.
May require travel to off campus locations.
WORK STANDARDS:
When conducting university business, must comply with the California Vehicle Code and Stanford University driving requirements.
Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned.
Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu.
Why Stanford is for You
Imagine a world without search engines or social platforms. Consider lives saved through first-ever organ transplants and research to cure illnesses. Stanford University has revolutionized the way we live and enrich the world. Supporting this mission is our diverse and dedicated 17,000 staff. We seek talent driven to impact the future of our legacy. Ourculture and unique perks empower you with:
Freedom to grow. We offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, or audit a course. Join a TedTalk, film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak.
A caring culture. We provide superb retirement plans, generous time-off, and family care resources.
A healthier you. Climb our rock wall or choose from hundreds of health or fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilities. We also provide excellent health care benefits.
Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums.
*The job duties listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification and are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on department or program needs without changing the general nature and scope of the job or level of responsibility. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.
*Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Why work at Stanford?Stanford University has changed the world, over and over again.We are one of Silicon Valley's largest employers - and also one of the most unique. Our mission is to educate future leaders and promote interdisciplinary, world-class research and teaching. This passion makes Stanford an intensely creative, rewarding, and challenging place to work. At the same time, our traditions of respect and collaboration sustain a humane, supportive environment in which to pursue your life and your career.At Stanford you'll work with bright, diverse, dedicated people. You'll find encouragement to learn and grow. You'll enjoy excellent benefits and an outstanding environment. How will it change you?
