Position Summary
Michigan State University is seeking a Biological Safety Officer to lead and oversee comprehensive biosafety programs that support the university's research, teaching, outreach, and operational activities. This position serves as the institution's subject matter expert on biological safety and is responsible for developing, implementing, and evaluating programs that control biological hazards, ensure regulatory compliance, and promote safe work practices.
The Biological Safety Officer provides strategic leadership for biosafety programs, oversees the safe management and disposal of biological and potentially infectious materials, conducts compliance reviews and facility inspections, serves as the university's liaison to regulatory agencies, and provides expert guidance during emergencies involving biological hazards. This role also supervises staff and collaborates extensively with faculty, researchers, administrators, and operational units across the university.
Salary
The salary range for this position is fixed at $100,000 – $110,000. Final compensation will be determined based on relevant experience and expertise within this range.
Remote Work Capability
This position is based in East Lansing, Michigan, on the campus of Michigan State University. MSU supports flexible work arrangements, and this position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule (if desired). Due to the nature of the role and the work of environmental health and safety, this position is required to work onsite 4 days per week. Flexible work arrangements are subject to supervisory approval and ongoing assessment to ensure they effectively support individual performance, team collaboration, service delivery, and departmental objectives.
What You’ll Do
- Lead university-wide biosafety programs supporting research, teaching, outreach, healthcare, and operational activities involving biological hazards.
- Serve as the University's Institutional Biosafety Officer and primary authority on biosafety compliance, risk management, and best practices.
- Develop, implement, and maintain biosafety policies, procedures, manuals, and institutional plans, including exposure control and waste management programs.
- Oversee programs governing the safe handling, storage, transport, and disposal of biological, potentially infectious, medical, and related waste materials.
- Review research protocols, laboratory activities, and biological hazard applications to ensure compliance with applicable regulations and institutional requirements.
- Conduct inspections and assessments of laboratories and facilities, identifying opportunities to enhance safety and regulatory compliance.
- Provide consultation, training, and technical guidance to faculty, researchers, staff, and university units on biological safety matters.
- Serve as the primary liaison with federal, state, and local regulatory agencies regarding biosafety-related requirements and concerns.
- Respond as an on-call technical advisor during incidents, emergencies, or events involving biological hazards.
- Supervise professional and student employees while fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
What We’re Looking For
- Demonstrated expertise in biological safety principles, biosafety program administration, and regulatory compliance.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to assess risk and develop practical, effective solutions.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, including the ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders and provide technical guidance to varied audiences.
- Ability to interpret and apply complex regulations, policies, and scientific information in a dynamic research environment.
- Proven leadership and organizational skills, including experience managing projects, programs, priorities, and staff.
Why Join Us
- Make a meaningful impact by helping protect the health, safety, and success of one of the nation's leading research universities.
- Partner with world-class researchers, faculty, and university leaders to support groundbreaking teaching, research, and innovation.
- Lead critical institutional safety programs while contributing to a collaborative culture focused on compliance, service, and continuous improvement.
Minimum Requirements
Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a master’s degree in microbiology, biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, or a closely related field; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in the field of biosafety including knowledge of biosafety regulations, epidemiology, and infectious waste management; supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Desired Qualifications
Possession of or the eligibility to obtain a Registered Biosafety Professional (RBP) or Certified Biological Safety Professional (CBSP) credential; five or more years of experience in the field of biosafety including knowledge of biosafety regulations, epidemiology, and infectious waste management.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.
Required Application Materials
Resume
Cover Letter
Work Hours
STANDARD 8-5
Website
https://ehs.msu.edu/
Summary of Health Risks
Exposure to human blood, serum, tissue and other body fluids; and materials covered under Universal Precautions.
TB risk or work within 3 feet of human patients in a health care setting or have potential exposure to animals or to specimens with Mycobacterium.
Work with animals or unfixed animal tissue.
Wear a respirator (does not include paper dust mask worn for comfort).
Remote Work Statement
MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.
Bidding Eligibility ends November 17, 2026 at 11:55 PM
