Hazardous Waste Technician

Updated: over 2 years ago
Location: Stanford, CALIFORNIA
Deadline: The position may have been removed or expired!

This position is represented by SEIU Local 2007 and the collective bargaining agreement between the university and SEIU Local 2007 governs the terms and conditions of employment.

SCHOOL/UNIT DESCRIPTION:

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.

The Environmental Protection Programs (EPP) group of Stanford University’s Department of Environmental Health and Safety provides services related to chemical, radioactive and biological waste management, disposal of legacy controlled substances, hazardous material spill prevention and response, air emission permits, surplus chemical exchange, and shipping of hazardous materials.  In addition, the EPP group is tasked with managing a variety of environmental projects such as underground tank remediation, and soils remediation related to hazardous material spills.

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.

CORE DUTIES:

  • Pick up chemical/universal and/or radioactive hazardous waste from laboratories, shops and/or clinics. Verify the composition and labeling, perform basic segregation in accordance with onsite transportation requirements, and package them prior to transportation to the appropriate waste facility for processing. Involves routine and frequent heavy labor tasks.
  • Package and prepare chemical/universal and/or radioactive wastes for shipment to off-site treatment/disposal facilities in accordance with facility packaging guidelines and DOT shipping requirements.
  • May prepare radiological wastes for decay and/or incineration and segregate chemical wastes for interim storage.
  • Label and mark waste shipping containers. Prepare shipping inventory sheets, manifests, and other associated documentation.
  • Maintain and inspect chemical waste storage and radioactive waste decay facilities, waste pick-up vehicles and associated supplies and safety equipment. Arrange for maintenance or repair.
  • Conduct qualitative radiological surveys to ensure safe working conditions and appropriate maintenance of waste storage facilities.
  • Report problems to supervisor as appropriate.
  • Perform housekeeping duties as assigned; sweeping, mopping, dusting etc.
  • With guidance from the supervisor, provides customer and compliance assistance to research and facilities personnel.
  • Enter data into computerized hazardous waste tracking systems.
  • May serve as member of the Hazardous  Material Response Team. Respond to spills and emergencies as directed.
  • May perform any of the duties described in the Hazardous Waste Transportation Technician specification or other duties as assigned.

In addition:

  • Provide support as needed during University emergencies. 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Education & Experience:

Requires knowledge and training on state and federal regulations pertaining to hazardous chemical, universal and radiological waste management, transportation, and disposal. Hazardous material coursework and/or significant experience working with hazardous and/or radioactive materials.


Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Familiarity with chemical, radiological, and regulatory reference materials.  Ability to interpret information in order to solve problems and/or complete work assignments.
  • Proficiency in using PC-based computers and related e-mail, data entry, and other basic software
  • Knowledge of and ability to select, use and maintain specialized personal protective equipment necessary for working with hazardous materials. The employee must be able to determine the proper and appropriate method necessary carrying out job assignments. Must be able to perform work in self-contained breathing apparatus.
  • Ability to work under direct supervision and perform assigned tasks from written instructions and established policies and procedures.
  • Excellent interpersonal communication skills and ability to respond knowledgeably, courteously, and quickly to customer concerns and needs. Ability to communicate orally and in writing with diverse audiences in English.
  • May work with mechanical systems (e.g. solvent bulking and waste handling systems) requiring attention to detail and mechanical ability.

Preferred Experience:

  • Experience in physically responding to hazardous material releases.

Certifications and Licenses:

  • Must possess and maintain a valid California Non-Commercial Class C Driver’s License.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:

  • Ability to obtain and maintain a California Non-commercial Class C driver’s license and drive day and night.
  • Frequently stand/walk, lift carry/push/pull objects that weigh up to 20 pounds.
  • Occasionally sit, perform desk-based computer tasks, twist/bend stoop/squat, grasp lightly, write by hand, operate foot or hand controls, use drum dolly and push/carry/lift/pull objects that weigh up to 50 pounds.
  • Rarely, kneel/crawl, climb (ladders, scaffolds or other), work/reach above shoulders, grasp forcefully, sort/file paperwork or parts and use telephone.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, walk for up to 20 minutes 3 times/day and construct fiberboard boxes.
  • Ability to manipulate motorized and non-motorized cart, pallet jack, drum dolly, and 55-gallon drums.
  • Ability to read various labels and discern colors.
  • Ability to wear and work in a respirator.

* - 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 required to respond to calls 24x7, to work overtime, evenings and weekends, including holidays, sometimes in inclement weather conditions.
  • May be exposed to radiation, electromagnetic fields, and/or extreme hot and cold temperatures.
  • May be exposed to a variety of halogenated and non-halogenated solvents during weekly pouring activities.
  • May be exposed to any of 20,000 chemicals used at Stanford during response to a hazardous material incident. Hazardous material incidents typically involve small amounts, less than one gallon.
  • Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

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 and the appropriate collective bargaining agreement at https://cardinalatwork.stanford.edu/hr- processes-policiespolicies/labor- relations-collective-bargaining.

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. Our culture  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.
  • Enviable resources. Enjoy free commuter programs, ridesharing incentives, discounts and more!

*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.



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