Director of Environmental Health & Safety

Sunflower Wellness is a vertically integrated life‑sciences organization rooted in innovation and driven by purpose. Our ecosystem of operating companies—including Colorado Chromatography Labs, Sunflower Manufacturing, and Alteraex—spans large‑scale chemical synthesis and extraction, novel molecule R&D, analytical services, and strategic marketing of bulk ingredients. From our roots in hemp processing and cannabinoid science to our expanding work in alkaloids and natural product chemistry, we are driven by continuous evolution and operational excellence.

We believe strong organizations are built by empowered individuals, and we foster a culture where every team member is positioned to thrive. With cross‑functional collaboration across departments and operating companies, and a close‑knit team where your contributions are visible from lab to market, it's easy to see the direct impact of your work. Join our team and grow with a company that’s shaping the future of life sciences.

The Director of Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) is responsible for leading and enhancing the company’s existing EHS program, with a primary focus on OSHA safety regulations, EPA hazardous waste compliance, CDPHE requirements, fire code compliance, and chemical safety across our cGMP manufacturing operations. This role serves as the organization’s subject‑matter expert on hazardous materials management, regulatory compliance, and workplace safety.

Reporting to senior leadership, the Director of EHS will evaluate current processes, identify opportunities for improvement, and implement strategies to strengthen our regulatory standing and foster a culture of safety throughout the organization.

• Serve as the primary contact for regulatory inquiries, inspections, and audits from OSHA, EPA, CDPHE, local fire authorities, and other state and federal agencies, proactively addressing findings and ensuring timely resolution of any citations or corrective actions.
• Lead the organization’s hazardous waste management program, including waste characterization, classification, and determination of proper disposal methods.
• Oversee the storage, labeling, tracking, and disposal of hazardous materials in accordance with CDPHE, OSHA, RCRA, DOT, and EPA requirements.
• Manage hazardous materials inventory systems and ensure accurate record‑keeping, manifesting, and regulatory reporting (e.g., Tier II, TRI, biennial reports).
• Conduct regular facility audits and risk assessments of chemical handling, storage, and waste management practices.
• Develop and maintain compliance programs for OSHA and EPA regulations.
• Oversee the creation and execution of employee safety training programs, including hazard communication (Haz Com/GHS), PPE usage, chemical hygiene, spill response, and emergency preparedness procedures.
• Ensure compliance with secondary containment, ventilation, and chemical segregation requirements across all production and storage areas.
• Coordinate hazardous waste pickups and maintain relationships with licensed waste haulers and disposal facilities.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with production, quality, and facilities teams to identify and mitigate chemical hazards in manufacturing processes.

• Required:
• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field;
  Master’s degree preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in compliance within chemical manufacturing environments, including 3+ years in a leadership or management capacity.
• Deep expertise in OSHA safety regulations, EPA hazardous waste requirements, and chemical hygiene practices.
• Experience developing and delivering employee training on hazard communication (Haz Com/GHS), PPE, chemical hygiene, spill response, and emergency preparedness.
• Proven ability to develop and implement organization‑wide compliance strategies and programs.
• Experience managing cross‑functional teams and leading regulatory change initiatives.
• Strong executive presence with excellent communication, analytical, and interpersonal skills.
• Preferred:
• Experience with inspections and 21 CFR 111/117 food safety compliance.
• Relevant certifications such as Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH).
• Track record of successfully navigating regulatory audits and inspections at the organizational level.
• Experience working directly with state environmental and public health agencies (e.g., CDPHE) and local fire authorities.