The Hazardous/Radioactive Materials Specialist is responsible for overseeing the receipt, storage, processing, and disposal of radioactive liquid and solid waste generated by the University and UNC Hospitals. This position collaborates with Hazardous Materials Technicians to transport radioactive waste to the storage facility for decay-in-storage management or temporary storage prior to shipment to an approved off-site disposal facility.
This role also oversees medical waste disposal operations and coordinates the transport of hazardous waste to the storage facility. The Hazardous/Radioactive Materials Specialist provides technical expertise and operational support regarding hazardous waste accumulation, storage, and regulatory compliance requirements for non-laboratory areas across the University.
In addition, the position is responsible for maintaining warehouse operations, including housekeeping, organization, routine inspections, and inventory management of supplies, materials, and equipment necessary to support waste management activities.
The Specialist serves as a member of the University’s Emergency Response Team, providing response support for chemical spills, hazardous materials releases, and other environmental emergencies.
To ensure compliance with federal and state regulations governing hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDFs), this position must maintain required training and certifications. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations require personnel working at a TSDF to complete a one-time 40-hour Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) training course, as well as an 8-hour annual refresher course. Additionally, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s RCRA Part B Permit requires personnel to complete initial and annual training in accordance with 40 CFR 270.14(b)(12) and 40 CFR 264.16.
Required Licenses and Certifications:
- Valid North Carolina Class C or higher Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with Hazardous Materials (HazMat) endorsement.
- 40-Hour HAZWOPER Certification and annual refresher training.
- RCRA Hazardous Waste Training Certification (initial and annual).