ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Biological Safety Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

William and Mary

Lab Safety Manager

The LSM also serves as the institution's Biological Safety Officer and Laser Safety Officer, meeting compliance requirements associated with duties designated in the current issuance of the NIH ...

Amentum

Safety Officer

Falls Church, VA · On-site

The Safety Officer works on a full-time basis under direction of the Program Manager and directly ... Biology, or other sciences. * Note: Safety-related experience may be substituted for educational ...

Valley Health

Public Safety Officer

Front Royal, VA · On-site

$18.59 - $24.16/hr

IE. Fire, Biological, Mass casualty, Hospital Lock Down, Radiation Emergencies and Active Shooter ... Public Safety Officer may be exposed to chemicals and persons with various illnesses, and ...

Caltech

Laser Safety Officer (LSO)

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$139K - $160K/yr

Job Summary The Laser Safety Officer (LSO) leads the implementation, oversight, and continuous ... laser, biological, chemical, and radiological hazards. * Required use of personal protective ...

Valley Health

Public Safety Officer

Front Royal, VA · On-site

$18.59 - $24.16/hr

IE. Fire, Biological, Mass casualty, Hospital Lock Down, Radiation Emergencies and Active Shooter ... Public Safety Officer may be exposed to chemicals and persons with various illnesses, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBiological Safety Officer Jobs

Biological Safety Officer information

See salary details

$25K

$67.1K

$116K

How much do biological safety officer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for biological safety officer in the United States is $67,068.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,500.00 and $80,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Biological Safety Officers?

Biological Safety Officers (BSOs) are professionals responsible for ensuring that laboratories, research facilities, and institutions comply with regulations and best practices related to biological safety. They develop, implement, and oversee biosafety programs to protect workers, the public, and the environment from potential hazards associated with biological agents. BSOs conduct risk assessments, provide training, inspect facilities, and respond to biohazard incidents. Their role is essential in maintaining a safe environment when working with infectious materials, recombinant DNA, or other potentially harmful biological substances.

What is the difference between Biological Safety Officer vs Laboratory Safety Coordinator?

AspectBiological Safety OfficerLaboratory Safety Coordinator
CertificationsBSL certifications, biosafety trainingOSHA Lab Safety, general safety training
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech facilitiesAcademic, clinical, research labs
Employer & IndustryBiotech, healthcare, research institutionsUniversities, research centers, hospitals

The Biological Safety Officer primarily focuses on biosafety protocols, risk assessments, and compliance related to biological hazards. The Laboratory Safety Coordinator oversees overall lab safety, including chemical, electrical, and biological hazards. While both roles ensure safe lab environments, the Biological Safety Officer specializes in biosafety regulations and biological risk management, making their responsibilities more specific to biological hazards.

What jobs can I do with a degree in biological sciences?

A degree in biological sciences can lead to roles such as Biological Safety Officer, where you oversee laboratory safety protocols and compliance with biosafety regulations. Other common jobs include research scientist, laboratory technician, quality control analyst, and environmental health specialist, often requiring knowledge of laboratory techniques, safety standards, and relevant certifications. These positions are typically found in healthcare, research institutions, biotech companies, and government agencies.

What skills do you need to be a biosecurity officer?

A biological safety officer needs strong knowledge of biosafety protocols, laboratory safety procedures, and relevant regulations. Skills in risk assessment, attention to detail, communication, and the ability to train others are essential. Certifications such as the Biological Safety Professional (BSP) or equivalent are often required or preferred.

What are some common challenges faced by a Biological Safety Officer and how are they typically addressed?

Biological Safety Officers (BSOs) often encounter the challenge of ensuring consistent compliance with biosafety protocols across diverse research teams and departments. This involves staying up-to-date with evolving regulations, conducting regular risk assessments, and providing tailored training to staff. BSOs also manage incident response, which requires clear communication and decisive action in the event of spills or exposures. By fostering a safety-oriented culture and maintaining open lines of communication, BSOs help mitigate risks and promote best practices throughout the organization.

What does a biological safety officer do?

A biological safety officer is responsible for developing and implementing safety protocols to prevent exposure to biological hazards in laboratories and healthcare settings. They conduct risk assessments, ensure compliance with regulations, and train staff on proper safety procedures, often using tools like biosafety cabinets and safety data sheets. Certification in biosafety levels and knowledge of containment practices are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Biological Safety Officer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Biological Safety Officer, you need a solid background in biological sciences, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with biosafety protocols, laboratory safety equipment, and certifications such as Certified Biological Safety Professional (CBSP) are commonly required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills are vital for effectively training staff and responding to incidents. These competencies ensure safe laboratory environments, regulatory adherence, and the prevention of biological hazards.

How to become a certified biological safety professional?

To become a certified biological safety professional, individuals typically need a relevant degree in life sciences, microbiology, or a related field, along with work experience in biosafety or laboratory safety. Certification is often obtained through organizations like the American Biological Safety Association (ABSA), which requires passing an exam and demonstrating practical experience in biosafety practices and protocols.
More about Biological Safety Officer jobs
What cities are hiring for Biological Safety Officer jobs? Cities with the most Biological Safety Officer job openings:
What states have the most Biological Safety Officer jobs? States with the most job openings for Biological Safety Officer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Biological Safety Officer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Biological Safety Officer jobs are:
Biological Safety Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Biological Safety Officer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,068 per year, or $32.2 per hour.

Lab Safety Manager

William and Mary

Remote

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

Job Requisition:
JR101769 Lab Safety Manager (Open)
Job Posting Title:
Lab Safety Manager
Department:
CC00036 WM001 | PROV | Provost's Office
Job Family:
Staff - Environmental Safety
Worker Sub-Type:
Regular (benefited)
Job Requisition Primary Location:
Boundary 208
Primary Job Posting Location:
Posting Location - William & Mary
Job Description Summary:
The Lab Safety Manager (LSM) is an on-site position supporting academic and research operations by providing leadership to ensure compliance and safe laboratory environments. Reporting to the Director of Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S), the LSM collaborates with faculty, researchers, staff, and students to manage and improve programs in lab safety, biological safety, chemical safety, radiation safety, and laser safety. The LSM supervises the EH&S Specialist dedicated to lab safety programs.
The LSM supports personnel working in or affecting educational and research laboratories by providing safety services, leadership, and compliance oversight. The position manages laboratory safety programs and may assign or coordinate operational activities with the EH&S Specialist and, as needed, the broader EH&S Office.
The LSM supports the Institutional Review Board (IRB), Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC), and other safety committees by participating as a committee member, reviewing protocols, providing periodic inspections, offering technical safety expertise, reporting and investigating any significant research related accidents or illnesses, and assisting with related medical surveillance programs.
The LSM also serves as the institution's Biological Safety Officer and Laser Safety Officer, meeting compliance requirements associated with duties designated in the current issuance of the NIH Guidelines for Research Involving Recombinant or Synthetic Nucleic Acid Molecules and the American National Standards Institute, NIH Laser Safety Program, and American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z136.1 and Z136.5 standards. The LSM will coordinate with institutional safety partners to support effective, consistent safety and compliance programs throughout all campuses.
Job Description:
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in microbiology, biology, chemistry, occupational safety, industrial hygiene, life sciences, or a related science or health and safety field.
  • In-depth knowledge of OSHA, EPA, NIH, CDC, ANSI, and other regulations and industry standards.
  • Advanced experience (typically 8 or more years) working in laboratory safety, a related field, or equivalent combination of education, experience, and training
  • Intermediate experience (typically 5 or more years) in the field of biological safety.
  • Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills with the proven ability to work effectively and collaboratively with a diverse constituency.
  • Ability to prioritize and manage concurrent tasks.
  • Highly detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Power Point).
  • Ability to work within and manage data in a safety management software platform.
  • Training, or ability to successfully take training within twelve months of hire, for OSHA 30-hour training, RCRA Hazardous Waste Management training, Shipping Hazmat by Ground (DOT), 40-Hour Hazardous Waste Operations training.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in microbiology, biology, chemistry, occupational safety, industrial hygiene, life sciences, or a related science or health and safety field.
  • Experience in higher education or research.
  • Experience with radiation safety and laser safety programs.
  • Professional certification (Certified Safety Professional, Certified Industrial Hygienist, Certified Hazardous Materials Manager, Registered Biosafety Professional, Radiation Safety Officer, Laser Safety Officer, or other recognized health and safety certification).

Conditions of Employment:
  • Position designated as essential to the operation of the department and may require reporting to work when the university is officially closed.
  • The incumbent will be required to participate in the department's on-call program and is required to work overtime and on weekends, as assigned.
  • Wear personal protective equipment including, but not limited to safety glasses and goggles, gloves, face shield, lab coat, safety shoes, hearing protection, and respirator.

Duties:
40%- Laboratory Safety Compliance, Regulatory Oversight, Inspections & Audits:
  • Ensures compliance with OSHA, EPA, NIH Guidelines, CDC biosafety standards, ANSI standards, and all applicable state, federal, and institutional regulations.
  • Develops, implements, and maintains comprehensive EH&S programs, including the Chemical Hygiene Plan, Laser Safety Program (in alignment with ANSI Z136 standards), and other required safety programs.
  • Supports the institution's Radiation Safety Program in collaboration with the Radiation Safety Officer.
  • Maintains current knowledge of regulatory changes and updates programs accordingly.
  • Conducts routine laboratory inspections and audits to assess compliance and identify hazards.
  • Issues timely inspection reports with clear documentation of deficiencies and required corrective actions.
  • Oversee the implementation and tracking of corrective actions to closure.
  • Prepare summary reports of inspection findings, trends, and recommendations for continuous improvement.

15%- Safety Equipment Testing, Certification & Maintenance:
  • Ensures proper testing and certification of laboratory safety equipment, including emergency eyewashes and showers, fume hoods, biosafety cabinets, snorkels, and other ventilation systems.
  • Coordinates equipment testing and maintenance activities with contractors, Facilities Operations, and laboratory personnel.
  • Maintains documentation and schedules for all required equipment certifications.
  • Identifies equipment deficiencies and ensures timely remediation.
  • Provides technical guidance on equipment selection and specifications for laboratory planning, relocation, and renovation projects.

15%- Training & Education:
  • Develops, updates, and delivers comprehensive EH&S safety training programs.
  • Provides training in multiple formats to accommodate diverse learning environments, including in-person, computer-based, online, and hybrid delivery methods.
  • Ensures training compliance for all laboratory personnel and maintains accurate training records.
  • Evaluates training effectiveness and implements improvements based on feedback and incident trends.
  • Participates in institutional safety committees and initiatives.
  • Provides expert technical consultation for mitigation of laboratory hazards and reviews laboratory designs and procedures to ensure incorporation of appropriate safety controls.

10%- Incident Investigation & Emergency Response:
  • Completes thorough investigations of incidents and near-misses, identifying root causes and contributing factors.
  • Communicates investigation findings and implements corrective actions tracked to closure.
  • Maintains emergency preparedness and response capabilities for chemical spills and laboratory accidents.
  • Provides timely technical support during laboratory emergencies.
  • Conducts emergency response training and drills.

10%- Chemical & Waste Management:
  • Oversees and ensures maintenance of chemical and waste management programs.
  • Manages the chemical inventory for laboratories using the EH&S-approved inventory system.
  • Ensures safe handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals, biological materials, hazardous waste, and other regulated waste streams.
  • Provides technical guidance on chemical compatibility, storage requirements, waste segregation, and hazard mitigation.
  • Coordinates with waste disposal contractors and ensures regulatory compliance for all waste management activities.
  • Supports laboratory planning and relocation projects regarding chemical storage and waste management infrastructure.

5%- Other Duties as Assigned:
  • Collaborate effectively with academic departments, the Research Compliance Office, and operational departments.
  • Serves as a resource and subject matter expert on laboratory safety matters.
  • Build strong working relationships to promote a culture of safety.
  • Represent Environmental Health & Safety on committees or institution-wide initiatives at the request of the director.

Posting Range: $80,000 up to $103,000 commensurate with experience
Additional Job Description:
Please apply by June 15, 2026
Job Profile:
JP1049 - Lab Safety Specialist - Exempt - S14
Qualifications:
Compensation Grade:
S14
Recruiting Start Date:
2026-05-28
Position Restrictions:
Continuing E&G funded position and not term-limited
EEO is the Law. Applicants can learn more about William & Mary's status as an equal opportunity employer by viewing the "Know Your Rights" poster published by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. https://www.eeoc.gov/know-your-rights-workplace-discrimination-illegal
Background Check: William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.
Remote Work Disclaimer: Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisor's ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility.

Apply