Environmental Health & Safety Specialist - Charlotte, NC

Position Summary:
We are seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Specialist to oversee the health, safety, and environmental practices at our Innovations Center. This role is critical in ensuring the safety of our employees, compliance with relevant regulations, and the maintenance of a safe working environment. The EHS Specialist will collaborate closely with R&D and technical support teams to identify and mitigate potential hazards, implement safety programs, and foster a culture of safety within the facility.

Key Responsibilities:

1. EHS Program Management
   • Develop, implement, and manage comprehensive EHS policies and procedures in line with regulatory requirements and Dentsply Sirona standards.
   • Conduct regular audits and risk assessments of the Innovations Center, ensuring that all activities meet environmental, health, and safety standards.
   • Serve as a primary point of contact for all EHS matters within the center, ensuring compliance with OSHA, EPA, and other relevant regulatory bodies.
2. Training and Education
   • Conduct training sessions for employees, including R&D and technical support staff, on safety practices, emergency response, and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
   • Develop and maintain training materials and records to ensure all personnel are adequately trained on EHS protocols.
3. Incident Investigation and Reporting
   • Lead investigations of workplace incidents, accidents, and near-misses. Document findings and ensure root causes are identified and corrective actions implemented.
   • Maintain accurate records of incidents, inspections, and other EHS-related documentation for reporting purposes and future reference.
4. Collaboration with Departments
   • Work closely with R&D and technical support teams to evaluate safety risks associated with equipment, chemicals, and new product development processes.
   • Provide guidance on best practices for safe laboratory practices and proper chemical handling, storage, and disposal.
5. Monitoring Regulatory Landscape and Radiation Safety
   • Continuously monitor the regulatory landscape for changes impacting environmental, health, and safety standards.
   • Provide expertise in radiation safety practices, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations and safe handling of radioactive materials when applicable.
   • Support the wider Technical Support group by offering insights and solutions for regulatory and safety challenges across the organization.
6. Emergency Preparedness
   • Develop, implement, and regularly review emergency response plans specific to the Innovations Center. Coordinate emergency drills and collaborate with local authorities as necessary.
   • Ensure that emergency equipment, such as eyewash stations, fire extinguishers, and first-aid kits, are readily available and properly maintained.
7. Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship
   • Classify, Track and manage all hazardous and non-hazardous waste streams in accordance with regulations and prepare all EPA and NC reporting.
   • Implement waste reduction and sustainability initiatives, particularly in lab environments, to minimize the environmental impact of R&D activities.
   • Ensure proper disposal of hazardous materials and compliance with environmental regulations, such as RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act) standards.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Occupational Health and Safety, Engineering, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 3+ years of experience in an EHS role, preferably within a laboratory, manufacturing, or R&D environment.
• Knowledge of OSHA, EPA, and other relevant safety regulations.
• Ability to obtain RSO certification within 3 months of hire. Previous experience as radiation safety or laser safety officer a plus
• Experience with EHS management systems, incident investigation, and risk assessment.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Certifications such as OSHA 30, Certified Safety Professional (CSP), or Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) are a plus.

Preferred Skills and Attributes:

• Experience with monitoring regulatory changes and their impact on EHS practices.
• Expertise in radiation safety, including compliance and risk mitigation practices.
• Ability to identify, assess, and mitigate risks in a laboratory or technical environment.
• Familiarity with environmental compliance, chemical safety, and waste management.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Proactive approach to promoting a safe and compliant work environment.