Mandate:
Reporting to the Director, Finance and Administration, the Environmental Health and Safety Officer provides leadership, technical expertise, and coordination for occupational health and safety, hazardous materials management, regulatory compliance, and emergency preparedness initiatives within Facilities Management (FMGT). The role leads the development, implementation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of departmental occupational health and safety programs, policies, procedures, and compliance practices to support safe and compliant facilities operations.
The Environmental Health and Safety Officer acts as the primary Facilities Management resource on occupational health and safety, hazardous materials management, emergency preparedness, and regulatory compliance matters. The position provides advice and guidance to Facilities Management leadership, supervisors, project teams, and operational staff regarding the interpretation and application of applicable legislation, regulations, standards, and departmental safety practices.
The role works closely with the university’s central Occupational Health, Safety and Environment (OHSE) office, Emergency Management program, Campus Security, and other university departments to support coordinated approaches to workplace safety, emergency preparedness, hazardous materials management, and regulatory compliance within Facilities Management operations. The position also liaises with external agencies including WorkSafeBC, Technical Safety BC, consultants, contractors, and emergency response agencies regarding operational safety and compliance matters.
Objectives:
- Lead and continuously improve Facilities Management occupational health and safety, hazardous materials management, and emergency preparedness programs to support safe and compliant operations.
- Provide guidance and support to Facilities Management leadership and staff regarding occupational health and safety requirements, operational risk mitigation, and regulatory compliance obligations.
- Support coordinated approaches to workplace safety, emergency preparedness, and business continuity through collaboration with OHSE, Emergency Management, and other university stakeholders.
- Lead inspections, investigations, audits, and risk assessments to identify risks, improve safety performance, and support continuous improvement initiatives.
- Promote a positive workplace safety culture through training, communication, consultation, and ongoing engagement with Facilities Management staff and stakeholders.
Working Conditions:
This position works in both office and operational environments and regularly attends active construction sites, mechanical spaces, rooftops, maintenance areas, and occupied university buildings. The role may require occasional attendance outside regular business hours in response to operational or emergency situations. Personal protective equipment is required when attending operational or hazardous work environments.
