Biosecurity Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2024]

In an era where biological threats and hazards are escalating, the role of biosecurity specialists has never been more critical.

As global connectivity increases, so does the demand for skilled professionals who can prevent, control, and eliminate biological risks and vulnerabilities.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a biosecurity specialist?

Whether you are:

A job seeker looking to understand the core of this role,
A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
Or simply fascinated by the intricate field of biosecurity,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we introduce a flexible biosecurity specialist job description template, tailored for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Contents show

Biosecurity Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Biosecurity Specialists work to ensure the protection of ecological and agricultural health from harmful biological agents and threats.

They are generally responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing biosecurity programs and measures to safeguard against the spread of diseases or invasive species.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

Evaluating potential biosecurity risks and implementing control measures to mitigate these risks
Developing and implementing biosecurity policies and procedures
Training staff members in biosecurity protocols and procedures
Monitoring and inspecting sites for compliance with biosecurity standards
Investigating and managing incidents of biosecurity breaches
Collaborating with scientists, researchers, and other experts to understand and respond to biosecurity threats
Keeping up-to-date with the latest scientific research and advancements in the field of biosecurity
Preparing reports on biosecurity activities, findings, and recommendations
Advising organizations or government bodies on biosecurity regulations and requirements
Assisting with emergency response planning for biosecurity incidents

Biosecurity Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Biosecurity Specialist to join our team.

In this role, you will be responsible for developing and implementing biosecurity protocols to prevent biological threats.

You will ensure the safety and compliance of our organization by conducting regular inspections, risk assessments, and safety training.

Our ideal candidate is well-versed in biosecurity laws and regulations, has excellent problem-solving skills, and is detail-oriented.

Responsibilities

Develop, implement and manage biosecurity protocols and plans
Conduct regular biosecurity inspections and risk assessments
Develop and deliver biosecurity training for staff
Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal biosecurity regulations
Collaborate with relevant departments to ensure biosecurity measures are effectively implemented
Investigate and respond to biosecurity incidents
Prepare and present biosecurity reports and updates
Stay current with latest biosecurity threats and prevention methods

Qualifications

Proven experience as a Biosecurity Specialist or similar role
Knowledge of biosecurity laws and regulations
Ability to conduct biosecurity inspections and risk assessments
Excellent problem-solving skills
Strong communication and training skills
Detail-oriented and diligent
Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Public Health, or a related field

Benefits

401(k)
Health insurance
Dental insurance
Retirement plan
Paid time off
Professional development opportunities

Additional Information

Job Title: Biosecurity Specialist
Work Environment: Lab setting with occasional field work. Some travel may be required for inspections or meetings.
Reporting Structure: Reports to the Biosecurity Manager or Director of Safety and Compliance.
Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $90,000 maximum
Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
Employment Type: Full-time
Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

What Does a Biosecurity Specialist Do?

Biosecurity Specialists play a critical role in protecting the environment, agriculture, and public health from harmful pests, diseases, and biological agents.

They work for government agencies, private companies, or as consultants, often in the fields of agriculture, environment, or health sectors.

Their primary duty includes assessing and managing risks associated with harmful biological agents.

They develop and implement biosecurity policies and procedures to prevent the introduction and spread of pests and diseases.

Biosecurity Specialists also conduct inspections and surveillance to monitor and enforce biosecurity measures.

They analyze data from these inspections to identify trends and make recommendations on biosecurity practices.

They collaborate with various stakeholders such as farmers, researchers, and policymakers to educate them about biosecurity risks and measures.

In the event of a biosecurity incident, such as an outbreak of a disease, Biosecurity Specialists play a critical role in response planning and management, including containment and eradication strategies.

The role of a Biosecurity Specialist can also extend to research, where they study and develop new biosecurity practices, tools, and technologies.

Overall, a Biosecurity Specialist is responsible for ensuring the integrity of ecosystems and protecting human and animal health from biological threats.

Biosecurity Specialist Qualifications and Skills

Biosecurity Specialists require a unique set of skills and qualifications to safeguard ecological, agricultural, and health systems from harmful biological agents, such as:

A strong understanding of biology, ecology, and agricultural systems, to identify potential biosecurity risks and implement appropriate measures.
Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills to identify biological risks, analyse their potential impact, and design effective mitigation strategies.
Excellent communication skills for conveying complex biosecurity information to a diverse range of stakeholders, including government bodies, farmers, and the general public.
Proficiency in using technological tools and software for data collection, risk assessment, and monitoring of biosecurity threats.
Good collaboration and team-working skills to work effectively with other scientists, researchers, and biosecurity officers.
Strong project management skills to oversee biosecurity projects, ensuring that they are completed in a timely manner and meet all necessary regulations and standards.
Attention to detail, particularly in the identification and analysis of biosecurity risks and the implementation of biosecurity protocols.
Knowledge of local and international biosecurity laws and regulations, as well as the ability to interpret and apply them in various contexts.
Physical abilities that allow for fieldwork, including the collection of samples and monitoring of biosecurity threats.

Biosecurity Specialist Experience Requirements

Biosecurity Specialists generally have a background in biology, environmental sciences, public health, or related fields, where they gain foundational knowledge about biosecurity principles.

Entry-level candidates typically have 1 to 2 years of practical experience, often achieved through internships, research projects, or part-time roles in related fields such as epidemiology, microbiology, or environmental health.

On-the-job experience can also be gained in roles like Lab Assistant, Research Assistant, or Field Technician.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have in-depth knowledge and skills in biosecurity, biosafety, infectious disease management, and emergency response procedures.

They may have worked as Biosecurity Officers, Biosafety Specialists, or similar roles, where they’ve developed their technical skills.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are often ready for advanced roles or leadership positions.

They may have experience coordinating biosecurity programs, developing and implementing biosecurity policies, and providing technical guidance to teams or organizations.

They may have also gained experiences in training and awareness programs to educate others about biosecurity risks and preventative measures.

In certain positions, Biosecurity Specialists may also require specific certifications or security clearances, due to the sensitive and potentially hazardous nature of the work.

Biosecurity Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Biosecurity Specialists usually hold a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as biology, microbiology, or environmental science.

Coursework typically includes the study of microbiology, epidemiology, pathobiology, and virology, providing a strong foundation in understanding the spread and prevention of diseases.

For advanced positions, a master’s degree or Ph.D. in biosecurity or a related discipline may be required.

These might focus more on policy, management, and the implementation of biosecurity measures.

Biosecurity specialists also often have training in emergency response, as their role often involves managing and reacting to biological threats and emergencies.

In addition to academic qualifications, biosecurity specialists should have strong problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, and a detail-oriented mindset.

While not always required, certifications from recognized bodies in biosecurity or biosafety can enhance a biosecurity specialist’s credentials.

Continued education in the form of seminars, workshops, and professional courses is also beneficial to stay updated on the latest developments and technological advancements in the field.

Biosecurity Specialist Salary Expectations

A Biosecurity Specialist earns an average salary of $70,980 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can fluctuate depending on factors such as the individual’s experience, the size and location of the company, and the complexity of the tasks involved in the role.

Biosecurity Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Biosecurity Specialist need?

Biosecurity Specialists need a keen eye for detail and strong analytical skills, as they regularly assess and monitor potential biosecurity risks.

They should have a good understanding of microbiology, ecology, and environmental science.

Strong communication skills are also essential as they need to relay complex information to a non-scientific audience.

Additionally, problem-solving skills are important, particularly when it comes to devising and implementing biosecurity measures.

Do Biosecurity Specialists need a degree?

Yes, Biosecurity Specialists typically require a degree in a related field such as biology, microbiology, ecology or environmental science.

In some cases, a Master’s degree or Ph.D. in epidemiology, public health, or a related field may be necessary.

Relevant work experience in biosecurity or a related field is also highly valued.

What should you look for in a Biosecurity Specialist resume?

Check for a degree in a relevant field such as biology, microbiology, ecology, or environmental science.

Additional qualifications or experience in public health, epidemiology, or biosecurity would be beneficial.

Also look for experience in risk assessment, policy development, and biosecurity management.

Skills in data analysis, communication, and problem-solving are also important.

What qualities make a good Biosecurity Specialist?

A good Biosecurity Specialist is analytical, detail-oriented, and possesses strong problem-solving skills.

They need to be able to spot potential biosecurity risks and devise effective strategies to manage them.

Excellent communication skills are also crucial, as they need to be able to translate scientific information into clear, understandable terms.

They should be dedicated, thorough, and proactive, with a genuine interest in protecting public health and the environment.

What are the daily duties of a Biosecurity Specialist?

A Biosecurity Specialist may start their day by reviewing and analyzing data from biosecurity surveillance systems.

They may conduct risk assessments, develop and implement biosecurity policies, and carry out inspections of facilities to ensure compliance with biosecurity regulations.

They might also spend time liaising with other health and environmental professionals, government officials, and the public to provide advice and information on biosecurity issues.

In the event of a biosecurity breach, they would coordinate the response, which could include containment, eradication, and recovery measures.

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve demystified the inner workings of a biosecurity specialist role.

And what did we find?

It’s not just about conducting research.

It’s about safeguarding our ecological future, one organism at a time.

Armed with our handy biosecurity specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why end your journey here?

Dig further with our job description generator. It’s your gateway to meticulously crafted job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Keep in mind:

Every organism is a part of our larger ecosystem.

Let’s protect that future. Together.

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Biosecurity Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2024]

Biosecurity Specialist Duties and Responsibilities