Safety Manager

Description:

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is seeking a qualified and experienced CL3 and Health & Safety Manager to join the Public Health Laboratory in Birmingham, located at Heartlands Hospital. This vital role combines leadership of Containment Level 3 (CL3) laboratory operations with comprehensive management of health and safety functions, ensuring the secure and efficient handling of Hazard Group 3 pathogens.

The successful candidate will work in partnership with University Hospitals Birmingham Trust (UHB), contributing to essential diagnostic and reference microbiology services across multiple hospitals and regional healthcare providers.

This role is suited for a highly skilled professional with strong technical expertise in microbiology, containment operations, and occupational safety, who can lead teams, uphold regulatory compliance, and promote a culture of safety and excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Containment Level 3 (CL3) Management

• Oversee daily technical management of the Containment Level 3 (CL3) laboratories, including the National Mycobacterial Reference Service (NMRS) and Enteric Laboratory.

• Ensure the safe handling, isolation, and identification of Hazard Group 3 organisms in compliance with biosafety regulations.

• Supervise and mentor laboratory staff, coordinating schedules, training, and rotation.

• Review laboratory methodologies regularly to maintain accuracy, safety, and efficiency.

• Develop and implement technical procedures for pathogen containment, decontamination, and emergency response.

• Manage equipment performance and liaise with laboratory suppliers for maintenance and upgrades.

• Facilitate training and educational programs for visiting researchers, ensuring adherence to safety protocols.

• Provide technical leadership in microbiological surveillance, antibiotic susceptibility testing, and data management for epidemiological studies.

• Communicate scientific developments and research findings at conferences and internal meetings.

Health & Safety Leadership

• Act as Nominated Health & Safety Officer for the UKHSA Birmingham Laboratory.

• Lead and coordinate health and safety management in partnership with the Laboratory Manager and Head of Operations.

• Maintain and enforce UKHSA health and safety policies, COSHH regulations, and biosafety standards.

• Ensure that risk assessments, safety audits, and incident investigations are conducted and documented promptly.

• Take control in case of accidents, spills, or contamination incidents, managing decontamination procedures effectively.

• Oversee safe storage, labeling, and disposal of hazardous chemicals and infectious materials.

• Verify that all safety equipment, including autoclaves, centrifuges, fume cabinets, and PPE, are functional and compliant.

• Manage safety documentation, maintain risk registers, and monitor compliance with statutory requirements.

• Provide training and guidance to all staff and visitors on safe working practices and emergency protocols.

• Ensure contractors and external service providers are briefed and adhere to laboratory safety standards.

Governance and Compliance

• Uphold the highest standards of biosafety, biosecurity, and quality assurance across laboratory operations.

• Work closely with regulatory bodies to ensure laboratory accreditation and compliance.

• Contribute to the ongoing development of UKHSA’s safety culture and continuous improvement in laboratory practice.

Required Qualifications and Skills

• Degree in Biomedical Science (BMS) or equivalent, accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS).

• Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registration.

• MSc or equivalent qualification in a relevant scientific discipline.

• NEBOSH or IOSHH Health & Safety certification (or equivalent).

• Proven experience working in microbiology or biosafety laboratories, ideally within CL3 environments.

• Demonstrated expertise in Health & Safety management, risk assessment, and laboratory governance.

• Strong leadership and staff management capabilities, with the ability to motivate and mentor multidisciplinary teams.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, both written and verbal.

• Analytical mindset with the ability to assess data and develop evidence-based improvements.

• High level of integrity, confidentiality, and professionalism.

Benefits and Working Conditions

• NHS Pension Scheme eligibility under “Agenda for Change” Terms and Conditions.

• Learning and professional development opportunities tailored to the role.

• Inclusion in UKHSA’s supportive and diverse workforce culture.

• Access to flexible working options (where applicable) and equality-driven workplace policies.

• The role is on-site at UKHSA Birmingham, B9 5ST, and hybrid work is not available due to the nature of laboratory operations.

Selection Process

Stage 1: Application & Sift
Applicants must submit a detailed application form and a supporting statement (up to 1000 words) outlining relevant skills and experience against the essential criteria.

Stage 2: Interview
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a face-to-face interview and asked to deliver a 5–10-minute presentation on the topic:

“How would you develop and implement an emergency response plan for a CL3 facility? Walk us through the key components you would focus on.”

Candidates will be assessed based on competencies, knowledge, experience, and presentation quality.

Security Clearance: Counter Terrorism Check (CTC) required. Candidates should have lived in the UK for at least the past 3 years.

Diversity and Inclusion

UKHSA is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and fairness in recruitment. Applications are encouraged from all backgrounds and underrepresented groups. The agency provides reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process to support applicants with disabilities or additional needs.