Co-Op, EHS & Lab Operations

As a Co-Op in EHS & Lab Operations at BlueRock Therapeutics, your primary responsibilities will include supporting EHS initiatives and assisting with daily laboratory operations. You'll be involved in risk assessment, hazard communication, inventory management, and procedures like waste management and PPE restocking. Your role will also require working closely with various teams to foster a safe working environment.

To qualify for the Co-Op position at BlueRock Therapeutics, you must be currently enrolled in a master’s degree program in Public Health, Occupational Health and Safety, or Environmental Public Health. Additionally, you should be at least 18 years old, available for a full-time assignment for a duration of 4 to 6 months, possess excellent organizational and communication skills, and have the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

The work environment for the Co-Op position at BlueRock Therapeutics is dynamic, collaborative, and supportive. You will be part of a team that values health, safety, and the delivery of innovative therapies. The role offers a combination of on-site work and the possibility of remote tasks, making it flexible while ensuring a rich learning experience.

BlueRock Therapeutics is dedicated to fostering an inclusive work culture and is proud to be recognized for its diversity initiatives. We actively promote diversity through programs that support underrepresented groups, encouraging an open environment where everyone's voice is valued. Our various awards highlight our commitment to being an equal opportunity workplace.

As a Co-Op at BlueRock Therapeutics, you can expect comprehensive training and support tailored to your role in EHS & Lab Operations. You will be guided by experienced professionals and have opportunities for hands-on learning that enhance your skills and knowledge in environmental health and safety practices, lab operations, and teamwork.

When answering this question, focus on your passion for environmental health and safety, as well as your enthusiasm for working in research and lab operations. Highlight how BlueRock's mission aligns with your career goals and interests, particularly in the areas of innovative health solutions.

Provide a structured approach to prioritization, such as identifying urgent versus important tasks and using tools to manage your time effectively. Share examples of how you’ve successfully managed multiple responsibilities in previous roles, ensuring you communicate your ability to remain organized under pressure.

Discuss your understanding of safety protocols and your previous experience in managing safety concerns. Provide specific examples of how you would address potential hazards, communicate these with the team, and ensure compliance with established safety guidelines to foster a safe working environment.

Explain any relevant coursework, internships, or projects dealing with chemical safety. Emphasize your knowledge of safety data sheets, proper storage and handling of chemicals, and relevant regulations, demonstrating your readiness to handle the responsibilities that come with this aspect of the Co-Op position.

Share a specific example that highlights your teamwork and collaboration skills. Explain your role, contributions, and any challenges faced, while emphasizing how you supported the team’s success and maintained clear communication.

Discuss the critical role lab support plays in ensuring researchers can focus on their experiments efficiently. Emphasize your understanding of the importance of maintaining operational efficiency, safety, and organization within lab settings to promote innovation and productivity.

Explain your proactive attitude towards learning and adapting to new tools or procedures. Share specific examples of how you’ve successfully learned new skills in past experiences, including any strategies you use to retain information and apply it effectively in a collaborative setting.

Highlight your commitment to continual learning by discussing resources you utilize, such as professional organizations, seminars, training courses, and publications in the field of EHS. This demonstrates your proactive approach to staying current with industry standards and practices.

Share your techniques for managing both administrative tasks and technical responsibilities effectively. Mention your organizational skills, and problem-solving abilities, and how you prioritize tasks to maintain efficiency in operations while ensuring technical support is delivered on time.

Prepare a brief overview of BlueRock Therapeutics, focusing on its commitment to innovation in cell therapy, its therapeutic focus areas, and its culture of diversity and inclusion. Showing that you have researched and understand the company’s mission helps your answers resonate with the interviewers.