Claim your role

The Public Safety Division has a critical role in supporting the well-being of our community. Comprised of the Police Department, Environmental Health & Safety, the Office of Emergency Management, and the Virginia Tech Rescue Squad, we are committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment for all students, faculty, staff, and visitors that maximizes everyone’s opportunity for success. Through collaboration, dedication, training, and community engagement, we strive to provide a comprehensive and responsive approach in our public safety programs. Our mission of advancing safety, security, health and preparedness is anchored by the Virginia Tech Principles of Community. These fundamental values; mutual respect, civility, and service, are foundational to our programs and are exemplified in our interactions with the campus community.

As part of the Environmental Health & Safety team, Hazardous Waste Technicians support our mission by safely handling, transporting, and storing all university hazardous materials and waste (chemical, radioactive, medical, etc.) according to established safety procedures and regulations. Reporting to the Hazardous Waste Manager, Technicians also assist in responding to hazardous material incidents, maintain accurate records, and assist with inspections of all university research facilities.

The incumbent also performs other duties as requested; takes initiative to support a healthy work environment; strives to fulfill the terms in the Standards of Business Conduct; exemplifies the Virginia Tech Principles of Community; and supports the university’s motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve).

Education
• Highschool diploma or equivalent

Experience
• Previous customer service experience that includes the ability to work with diverse and difficult customers.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Working knowledge of chemical, biological, and/or radiological principles.
• Working knowledge of computers and software.
• Ability to provide emergency response assistance to university personnel.
• Ability to safely move and handle up to 75 pounds.
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment including, but not limited to, full face respirator.
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to obtain CDL Class C driver’s license with hazmat endorsement.
• Ability to pass annual physical related to HAZWOPER certification.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Formal education in chemistry, biology, engineering, or related science and/or experience with hazardous waste management and safety procedures.
• Knowledge and/or experience applying federal and state OSHA and EPA regulations.
• Knowledge of proper chemical handling/disposal procedures and emergency response techniques.
• HAZWOPER certification.
• Training in hazardous material handling.
• Working knowledge of operational characteristics of radiological equipment.
• Experience in the operation of radiation detection and measurement equipment.
• Working knowledge of radiation standards and regulations.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain mechanical, electrical, and electronic equipment.
• Previous experience working in a team-based environment.
• CDL Class C with hazmat endorsement.

3

Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Regular

Anticipated starting salary is approximately $50,000

40

Rolling review starting January 28th, 2026

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.