Biological Safety Professional - Environmental Health and Safety

UMKC Environmental Health and Safety - Division of Finance and Administration

The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) Department of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) is seeking an experienced and collaborative Biological Safety Professional. This position supports more than 80 Principal Investigators and a dedicated community of research professionals, technicians, and students. As a Carnegie-designated R1 research university, UMKC is committed to advancing innovative, impactful research, and this role is essential to fostering a culture where scientific excellence and safety go hand in hand.

Serving as UMKC's Biological Safety Officer, the successful candidate will provide leadership and subject matter expertise for the university's biological safety program. This position partners closely with researchers and institutional stakeholders to support compliance with applicable regulations and best practices, provide technical guidance on laboratory facilities, equipment, and work practices, and promote the safe use of biological materials. Through consultation, risk assessment, and program oversight, the Biological Safety Officer helps protect researchers, students, staff, and the environment while enabling the success of UMKC's growing research enterprise.

Ideal candidates will be responsive, team-oriented problem solvers, known for their flexibility and adaptability, as well as their desire to learn.

Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Lead UMKC's biological safety program through strong, collaborative partnerships with Principal Investigators, postdoctoral researchers, laboratory staff, students, and other institutional stakeholders.
• Partner with the Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) and collaborate closely with the IBC Compliance Office to support the university's biosafety oversight program, including coordinating and facilitating IBC meetings, reviewing research protocols involving biological materials, providing regulatory guidance, and ensuring compliance with institutional, state, and federal requirements.
• Serve as a subject matter expert on biosafety and biosecurity matters, providing technical guidance regarding laboratory facilities, containment practices, biological risk assessments, equipment, and safe work practices.
• Ensure institutional compliance with applicable federal, state, local, and university regulations, guidelines, and policies governing biological research and the use of biological agents.
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve evidence-based policies, procedures, and best practices that promote a safe research environment and prevent injuries, illnesses, and exposures.
• Conduct inspections and risk assessments of laboratories and other areas where biological hazards may be present; identify, document, and communicate findings and partner with researchers to implement corrective actions.
• Investigate incidents, exposures, and near misses; determine root causes, recommend corrective and preventive measures, and support their successful implementation.
• Develop and deliver training, consultation, and outreach programs to promote awareness of biosafety requirements and foster a culture of safety throughout the research community.
• Monitor emerging biosafety issues, regulatory developments, and industry best practices and recommend program enhancements to support UMKC's growing research enterprise.
• Promote teamwork within the Department of Environmental Health and Safety and contribute to other departmental programs, initiatives, and special projects as needed.

• A Bachelor's degree in related/relevant area
• A minimum of three (3) years of relevant professional experience from which comparable knowledge, skills, and abilities in biosafety, laboratory safety, research compliance, or biological research have been acquired.

• Master's Degree in Biosafety/Biosecurity, Microbiology, or Biological Sciences
• Hands-on laboratory experience with recombinant DNA (rDNA)
• Registered Biosafety Professional (RBP) or the ability to achieve eligibility within 3 years of date of hire
• Eligibility to sit for the Certified Biosafety Professional (CBSP) examination or the ability to achieve eligibility within 3 years of date of hire
  
  

The anticipated hiring range for this position has been established as $54,000 to $65,000 annually.

Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual's particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Missouri provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Grade: Salary Plan # GGS-010
University Title: BIOLOGICAL SAFETY PROFESSIONAL

To review the University of Missouri's Staff Compensation Structure you can view the Job Code detail page. Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

For best consideration please submit a professional cover letter along with your resume and application materials.

Job posting will remain open until filled, for best consideration apply by July 13, 2026.

Kansas City offers the best of both worlds-a vibrant, urban community with Midwestern appeal. The city's rich history and its modern-day, innovative thinking come together to create an eclectic group of neighborhoods that offer a little something for everyone. From thriving arts districts, an energetic downtown nightlife, casual to upscale shopping and champion sports teams, you will have no problem making yourself at home. Of course, one of Kansas City's biggest claims to fame is its food, especially its world-famous barbecue. Foodies will delight in the culinary scene found throughout the city. Ranging from award-winning chefs to cozy pizza joints, Kansas City definitely is not lacking any flavor.

UMKC's campuses are conveniently nestled in the middle of all the action. Volker Campus is just minutes from the legendary Country Club Plaza, perfect for shopping or restaurants for lunch or after-work happy hours. Surrounded by hip neighborhoods and eateries, the Health Sciences Campus is located downtown near University Health Truman Medical Center and Children's Mercy Hospital.

UMKC is proud to be "Kansas City's university," and the campus and its people celebrate all the characteristics of the surrounding community. To learn more about life in Kansas City and find more resources, visit VisitKC.com.

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Office of Equity & Title IX at 816-235-6910.