Safety Officer-Safety Officer Sr. (5002)

Position Description:

Position Summary

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a diverse, exciting, and prestigious research facility that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. The Observatory operates a variety of radio telescopes that span the globe, including the famous Very Large Array (VLA) in New Mexico, the Green Bank Telescope in West Virginia, and the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) in Chile. These telescopes are among the most advanced in the world, allowing astronomers to explore the universe in unprecedented detail.

NRAO is seeking an experienced Safety Officer or Senior Safety Officer to join our Environmental, Health, Safety, and Security EHS team. at the Very Large Array (VLA). The position is based at the Very Large Array, 50 miles west of Socorro, NM.

This position is responsible for Observatory compliance with all applicable Federal, State, and local environmental, safety, health, and security regulations and Observatory Environmental, Health, Safety, and Security policy requirements.  Uses initiative and independent judgement within established procedural guidelines to oversee the daily management of EHS program at assigned site(s) to maintain employee awareness and compliance with program requirements.  Maintains compliance records. Assists managers with safety issues and participates in safety investigations. In addition, if hired to the Senior level, will oversee programs that are complex in scope or have significant responsibility for a system-wide program.  Job classification and compensation will be commensurate with education and experience.

What You Will be Doing:

This position is responsible for implementation and administration of the EHS program for assigned site(s) which includes:

●        Developing and conducting effective trainings and makes available resources on EHS policies and procedures to ensure full compliance with all applicable Federal, State, and Observatory environmental, safety, health, and security regulations.

●        Supporting Emergency Services volunteer efforts including emergency preparedness actions, Observatory EMS planning and coordination, as well as fire prevention and response planning.

●        Keeping the Site Safety Manual up-to-date which includes periodic review and revision to ensure the manual is current to operational requirements, personnel changes, and various governing regulations.

●        Conducting scheduled and unscheduled inspections to assess risks and hazards.

●        Investigating, documenting, and reporting on all accidents and incidents including near miss or "close call" incidents under the areas of responsibility. 

●        Notifying management regarding violation of safety regulations and codes; making recommendations for corrections and follow-up to ensure that violations or identified unsafe conditions have been corrected.

●        Investigating complaints submitted by management, employees, the public and/or regulatory agencies; evaluating concerns and alternatives, and making recommendations to management for corrective action, as required. 

●        Work with contractors to ensure compliance with EHS program requirements.  

●        Serve as EHS subject matter expert on interpreting, applying, and explaining applicable laws, codes, regulations, and guidelines. 

●        Maintaining accurate records; preparing clear and concise reports, correspondence and other written materials. 

●        Working closely with all levels of the organization and interfacing with staff and management to identify and resolve EHS issues and concerns.              

●        Authorizing a stop to a