Biosafety Specialist at NHLS

REFERENCE NUMBER: NICDCDC0524/001-01  

Job Description:

The Biorisk Officer is tasked with co-ordination and support of biosafety and biosecurity related activities at the NICD. The Biorisk Officer shall support the continual improvement of biosafety and biosecurity policy, procedure and implementation at the NICD in order to allow for compliance with national and international regulations as they may apply, but also to maintain and expand the NICD’s status as a leader in biorisk management in South Africa and the continent 

Key Job Responsibilities:

•  Implement objectives of the Biosafety and Biosecurity strategy
•  Provide expert advice to staff and external stakeholders on Biorisk management principles and practices accordance with relevant legislation, policies and standards
•  Developing and managing a secure database for pathogens requiring an import permit or transfer from the NICD’s Centre’s 
•  Perform internal audits and inspections as required under legislative compliance, including but not limited to: workplace audits; accident and incident investigations/reporting; and worksite inspections 
•  Assessment of new program activities to ensure compliance with national legislation
•  Develop and implement a biorisk management training policy for NICD including staff, visitors and contractors, with consideration for existing policies and procedures. Develop standardized awareness and educational materials as required
•  Support HSRs and NICD staff in preforming biorisk risk assessments. Provides technical expertise in recognizing, monitoring, and evaluating exposure to various hazards
•  Participate in NICD internal/external committees as required
•  Assists in the review and standardisation of biosafety and biosecurity procedures and policies for the NICD’s Biorisk Management program as directed by the IBBC 
•  Interpret audit findings for management, provides guidance in the development of corrective action plans 
•  Participates in adhoc related activities as and when need arises e.g.: Support for NDOH 
•  Provide administrative and other support as required to the Division of Biosafety and Biosecurity 
•  Act as an incident response manager as required 

Competencies 

•  National Diploma in Biomedical Technology/Degree in Science 
•  Holder of locally and internationally recognised training and certifications in biosafety and biosecurity and related fields 
•  Biosafety and Bisecurity experience 
•  Occupational Health Experience 
•  Experience in conducting risk assessments
•  Knowledge of OSHA 
•  Strategic Planning 
•  Management Skills 
•  Outstanding communication (verbal & written) and interpersonal skills
•  Computer literacy (MS Office and graphic packages)
•  Persuading and Influencing 
•  Planning and Organizing 
•  Ability to adapt to different working environments 
•  Creativity 
•  Deciding and Initiating action