Chemical Hygiene Officer

Position Details

The Pennsylvania State University Department of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) is looking for an energetic, motivated professional with broad knowledge and experience in chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related scientific discipline to serve as the scientific safety officer for the university's chemical safety program. The Chemical Hygiene Officer serves within the Laboratory and Research Safety Division of EHS and has a pivotal role in the optimization of chemical and laboratory safety in university operations and research.

This position is located at the University Park campus and oversees chemical safety programs at all University locations (including all Commonwealth campuses and research locations), except for the Hershey Medical Center and College of Medicine. The position leverages the EHS safety coordinator team to support day‑to‑day management and support of program expectations as directed by the Chemical Hygiene Officer.

• Serve as functional leader and technical expert for the chemical safety program
• Manage the University Chemical Hygiene Program
• Oversee management of the University Hazard Communications program
• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and programs governing the safe use of chemicals across the university
• Conduct hazard evaluations and work collaboratively with the university community to ensure optimal safety controls are in place and operating as intended
• Oversee chemical inventory management
• Provide functional and operational leadership for work involving highly hazardous chemicals and operations, including shock‑sensitive, reactive, pyrophoric, and acutely toxic chemicals and materials that pose an acute health hazard
• Manage the Chemical Facility Anti‑Terrorism Standards (CFATS) program
• Serve as primary responder to laboratory incidents, accidents, and emergencies involving chemicals and hazardous materials
• Oversee the development and implementation of chemical safety curriculum for the university and serve as lead trainer for chemical safety programs
• Support green chemistry and related sustainability principles in teaching and research in coordination with the Sustainability Institute
• Oversee continual assessment of current programs to identify new performance goals, strategies, and metrics

A master’s degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, toxicology, or a related field is preferred.

Bachelor’s Degree plus 6+ years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Required certifications: none.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $86,300.00 - $.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees designed to support both personal and professional well‑being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation, and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact .

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.