Laboratory Safety Manager

Role Purpose

The Laboratory Safety Manager is responsible for ensuring a skilled and qualified workforce able to perform tasks safely by systematically analyzing job needs and creating effective training programs. This role involves designing, developing, and delivering training that integrates knowledge and skills vital for safe and effective job performance. The manager verifies training success through ongoing evaluations to meet established standards.

Training Program Management

This position oversees the organization's training and qualification initiatives, ensuring employees gain the necessary expertise to fulfill organizational goals while safeguarding themselves, colleagues, the public, and the environment. Collaboration across all company levels is essential to tailor training programs—including computer-based, classroom, and on-the-job—to meet business commitments. Input from line management supports continual improvements in training quality and availability.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee contract staff and lead the comprehensive safety training initiatives across the facility.
• Serve as the authoritative expert on training policy, interpreting requirements and independently verifying processes and resources.
• Create training and qualification programs that meet all relevant standards.
• Set and enforce training protocols and procedures.
• Ensure effective implementation of company policies and promote a competence-driven culture.
• Interface with external bodies to guarantee appropriate orientation and ongoing training.
• Maintain training programs that align employee knowledge and behavior with organizational missions and safety goals.
• Continuously review and update existing learning content to sustain relevance and alignment with company objectives.
• Assure competency in personnel performing safety-critical or environmentally significant tasks through education, training, and experience.

Operational Duties

• Apply a graded approach to training administration, considering factors such as safety importance, hazards, facility life cycle, mission, and other specifics.
• Evaluate personnel performance to ensure appropriate training levels and adjust programs accordingly.
• Assist management in identifying training needs based on requirements and task hazards.
• Maintain updated training materials reflecting facility changes, safety standards, regulations, and lessons learned.
• Verify trainee prerequisites and incorporate management expectations into course materials.
• Monitor and ensure qualification of instructional staff and coordinate vendor-provided training.
• Ensure subcontractor training activities comply with organizational procedures.
• Manage training records and maintain comprehensive, auditable documentation.
• Oversee training database management, including scheduling and registration processes.
• Conduct training assessments to identify improvement areas and determine appropriate corrective measures.
• Design and update courses through needs and audience analyses, collaborating with subject matter experts to meet deadlines.
• Deliver instructor-led training sessions when required.
• Lead and manage the daily operations of the training team.
• Develop annual budgets, monitor expenditures, and implement corrective actions.
• Generate training performance reports highlighting registrations, attendance, and success rates; report trends and adverse findings.
• Implement issue management for continuous improvement, including corrective and preventive actions.
• Set and monitor metrics to evaluate training effectiveness for informed decision-making.
• Communicate significant negative training conditions to management promptly.
• Stay informed on training industry trends, best practices, and evolving standards through ongoing education and professional networks.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Experience and Qualifications

• At least 10 years in training development, instructional design, delivery, or safety/compliance training roles.
• Minimum 3 years in supervisory, managerial, or lead training positions.
• Proven record designing and executing comprehensive training programs.
• Experience within regulated industries such as nuclear, manufacturing, healthcare, or research sectors.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with senior management and cross-functional teams.
• Demonstrated skill in managing and motivating training personnel or contractors.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills targeting diverse audiences.
• Commitment to continuous professional growth and staying current with industry trends.

Preferred Skills and Certifications

• Proficiency with Learning Management Systems (LMS) and training databases.
• Experience with training design software like Articulate Storyline or Adobe Captivate.
• Analytical skills to assess training data and metrics.
• Background in matrix or complex organizational structures.
• Coaching and development of individuals.
• Familiarity with regulatory audits and inspections.
• Certifications such as CPTM, CSP, CHST, Instructional Design certifications, or Certified Trainer credentials are advantageous.

Competencies and Work Approach

• Expertise in training development, instructional design, and delivery methodologies.
• Ability to analyze information, strategically plan, and manage projects effectively.
• High standards for excellence, attention to detail, and decision-making quality.
• Strong communication skills, both written and oral.
• Capacity to work independently and generate credibility.
• Adaptability to changing demands and willingness to work beyond usual hours when required.
• Problem-solving orientation and commitment to personal development.