Biological Waste Technologist
This technician specializes in the proper disposal and management of biological waste, which can include medical, laboratory, and other biohazardous materials.
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Sample Job Descriptions for Biological Waste Technologist
Below are the some sample job descriptions for the different experience levels, where you can find the summary of the role, required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
Junior (0-2 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As a Biological Waste Technologist, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient management and processing of biological waste generated from medical facilities, research institutions, and other sources. You will ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations and contribute to the goal of reducing environmental impact from waste materials.
Required Skills
- Communication and teamwork skills
- Analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Proficiency in data entry and record-keeping
- Physical stamina and the ability to handle biohazard materials with care
- Adaptability and willingness to learn new techniques and regulations
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, chemistry or a related field.
- Knowledge of biological waste management practices and regulatory compliance.
- Familiarity with OSHA standards and other health and safety guidelines.
- Ability to work with minimal supervision and in a team environment.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Responsibilities
- Collect, track, and document biohazardous waste streams from various departments within institutions.
- Operate and maintain biohazard waste processing equipment and systems.
- Ensure proper packaging, labeling, and disposal of biohazard waste according to regulatory requirements.
- Conduct regular inspections of waste storage and processing areas to ensure health and safety standards.
- Collaborate with environmental health and safety teams to implement waste reduction strategies.
- Participate in training sessions and stay updated on regulatory changes concerning biological waste management.
- Provide guidance and training to personnel on proper waste segregation and disposal procedures.
Intermediate (2-5 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As a Biological Waste Technologist, you will be responsible for the safe collection, processing, and disposal of biological waste from healthcare facilities, research institutions, and other industries. You'll ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations regarding biohazardous waste management.
Required Skills
- Attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols.
- Strong understanding of biological waste management practices.
- Proficiency in using personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Effective communication skills for educating staff and reporting.
- Problem-solving skills and ability to respond to emergency situations.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Biology, or a related field.
- 2-5 years of experience in waste management or a related field.
- Familiarity with OSHA and EPA regulations relating to biohazardous waste.
- Ability to operate waste processing equipment safely.
- Certification in biological waste management or hazardous materials handling is preferred.
Responsibilities
- Collect and transport biological waste in accordance with established protocols.
- Operate and maintain equipment used for waste treatment, such as autoclaves and incinerators.
- Monitor and ensure the proper functioning of waste processing systems.
- Record and report on waste volumes, disposal methods, and any incidents.
- Educate institutional staff about proper waste segregation and disposal procedures.
- Stay current with changes in waste management regulations and technologies.
- Conduct regular facility inspections to ensure compliance with safety and health standards.
- Respond to and remedy biohazardous spills or exposure incidents.
Senior (5+ years of experience)
Summary of the Role
The Biological Waste Technologist is responsible for managing and overseeing the processes involved in the handling, treatment, and disposal of biological waste. This role requires extensive knowledge of biohazard regulations and waste management practices to ensure compliance with environmental and health standards.
Required Skills
- In-depth knowledge of waste treatment processes and technologies.
- Familiarity with biohazard safety standards and regulations.
- Strong organizational and project management skills.
- Ability to train and lead a team of waste management professionals.
- Proficient in using waste management software and tools.
- Excellent problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
- Commitment to environmental sustainability and conservation.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Biology, or related field.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in waste management, with a focus on biological waste.
- Thorough understanding of local, state, and federal regulations on biological waste management.
- Certification in hazardous materials management or a related field is preferred.
- Proven experience in managing teams and operations in a waste management facility.
- Excellent analytical skills and the ability to interpret technical data.
- Strong communication and leadership abilities.
- Experience with waste treatment technologies and protective equipment.
Responsibilities
- Develop and implement waste management policies and procedures in compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Monitor the collection, transportation, treatment, and disposal of biological waste to ensure adherence to safety protocols.
- Supervise the operation of biological waste treatment systems and ensure they operate efficiently and effectively.
- Conduct risk assessments and develop contingency plans for biological waste management.
- Train and oversee staff on proper waste handling and emergency response procedures.
- Maintain accurate records of waste disposal and ensure documentation meets regulatory standards.
- Coordinate with external waste disposal contractors and regulatory agencies as needed.
- Evaluate and introduce new technologies and methods to improve biological waste management processes.
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