Safety Advisor - Research Safety

Safety Resources, a unit with Human Resources, is the OHS, research safety, and hazardous waste group for USask. Safety Resources supports the safety of our students, staff, and faculty through compliance initiatives and the provision of policy and standards for implementation of the safety management system at the college and unit level.

Primary Purpose: The Safety Advisor provides guidance and expertise in laboratory and chemical safety through development, administration and support for effective research and safety programs. Key responsibilities include advising on requirements and leading practices in laboratory and chemical safety, Controlled Goods, security, associated regulations and standards, as well as the procurement, use, management, and disposal of hazardous materials, and controlled drugs and substances.

As a chemical safety expert, the officer develops and implements all aspects of the chemical and laboratory safety program which liaises, regulates, and advises on chemical safety across all university teaching, operations, and research. The officer periodically works in potentially hazardous environments and responds to and assists with emergency situations.

Based on the skills and abilities of the incumbent, opportunities for administration and support for the cannabis research safety and Transport of Dangerous Goods (TDG) programs are available.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Applies for university licenses, permits, and registrations with federal and provincial regulators
• Prepares and submits required government reporting and acts as a primary liaison with regulatory agencies
• Develops, implements, and administers safety programs, services and initiatives that support and monitor the safe and responsible use of cannabis and chemicals for research
• Complies with and provides guidance regarding health, safety and environmental requirements, legislation, regulations, and institutional policies and procedures
• Develops and delivers training that promotes leading practices in cannabis safety and security, and chemical and laboratory safety
• Provides technical expertise and advice regarding the procurement, use, management, and disposal of chemicals, compressed gases, controlled products, cannabis, and controlled drugs and substances
• Monitors and assesses physical, operational, and environmental conditions and provides advice and recommendations to mitigate risks and hazards
• Provides technical expertise and advice in support of leading practices in health, safety, and environmental safety
• Fosters positive, productive, and collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Responds to research safety related requests for service, support, projects, and investigations
• Assists the hazardous materials spill response team including reviewing plans, identifying hazards, risks and safety controls, and acting in an advisory role
• Communicates and acts in a respectful and professional manner, collaborates effectively, abides by policy, and contributes to a positive and productive work and learning environment
• Engages in continuous learning by participating in activities, training, and events related to Indigenous engagement, reconciliation, equity, diversity, and inclusion
• Demonstrates respect and dignity for all members of the community, actively contributes to an environment of acceptance and inclusion of others, and responds to different perspectives from a place of curiosity, respect, and non-judgement
• Undertakes related duties, as assigned, consistent with the nature of the position

Education:

• A bachelor’s degree in the physical, natural, life sciences or related field.

Experience:

• Minimum of three years of progressive experience in developing, supporting and managing health, safety and environmental protection programs, with a specialty in regulated research safety programs
• Experience in a post-secondary environment or in research and laboratory operations is an asset

Skills:

• Strong working knowledge of WHMIS, OHS, TDG, Controlled Drug & Substances Act and Cannabis Act & Regulations
• Strong working knowledge of agricultural, clinical, and biomedical research
• Ability to build relationships and collaborate effectively
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Effective planning and organizational skills including managing competing priorities
• Understanding and demonstrated ability in adult training principles
• Strong working knowledge of occupational health, safety, security, and environmental protection
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with a proven ability to interact effectively with diverse groups of internal and external stakeholders
• Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office applications

Inquiries regarding this position can be directed to jeff.lindsay@usask.ca.

Department: Safety Resources
Status: Term 11 months with the possibility of extension or becoming permanent

Employment Group: ASPA

Shift: Mon-Fri, 8:00-4:30)

Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1

Salary: The salary range, based on 1.0 FTE, is $69,035.00 - 107,868.00 per annum. The starting salary will be commensurate with education and experience.

Salary Family (if applicable): Specialist Professional

Salary Phase/Band: Phase 2

Posted Date: 5/26/2026

Closing Date: 6/8/2026 at 6:00 pm CST
Number of Openings: 1
Work Location: On Campus

The successful applicant will be required to provide the following current verification(s) where 'Yes' is indicated below. Further information is available at: https://careers.usask.ca/tips-for-applying.php

Criminal Record Check: Yes
Driver's License and Abstract Check: Yes
Education/Credential Verification: Yes
Vulnerable Sector Check: Not Applicable

The University of Saskatchewan aspires to be what the world needs and embraces equity, diversity and inclusion as foundational to excellence and innovation. We actively seek to create a welcoming environment where all individuals feel empowered to thrive, contribute, and grow. Applications from equity-deserving groups are encouraged as part of our ongoing efforts to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve: EDI Framework for Action**.**
We continue to grow our partnerships with Indigenous communities across the province, nationally, and internationally and value the unique perspective that Indigenous employees provide to strengthen these relationships. Verification of Indigenous Membership/Citizenship at the University of Saskatchewan is led and determined by the deybwewin | taapwaywin | tapwewin: Indigenous Truth policy and the Standing Committee in accordance with the processes developed to enact the policy. Successful candidates that assert Indigenous membership/citizenship will be asked to complete the verification process of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation.
The University of Saskatchewan provides an accessible and inclusive workplace. Should you require support through any stage of the recruitment process, please contact usfor assistance.