Laboratory Analyst I

Water Laboratory Analyst

Under limited supervision, manages and performs water laboratory testing procedures for water samples. Responsibilities include collecting and performing all required laboratory tests to collected water samples, ensuring quality control of all tests and procedures, consulting with outside testing laboratories, and ensuring clean and sanitary laboratory facilities and equipment. Reports to the Water Plant Superintendent.

Major Duties

• Routinely gathers water samples and tests for microbiological analysis.
• Reports microbiological results of water samples to the Environmental Protection Division of the State within regulated time restrictions.
• Performs in-house quality control for the microbiology lab.
• Collects, tests, and monitors the organic, inorganic, Trihalomethanes, lead and copper, volatile organic compounds, synthetic organic compounds, pesticides and herbicides, polychlorinated biphenyls and radionuclei samples.
• Routinely performs required laboratory tests for iron, manganese, chlorine, fluoride, alkalinity, and pH.
• Handles customer complaints.
• Maintains and calibrates laboratory instruments; cleans and maintains all lab equipment, lab ware, and laboratory facilities; orders and maintains chemicals and supplies to laboratories.
• Maintains a distribution map of water sample collection sites.
• Flushes dead end water lines and maintains records of such.
• Maintains files of material safety data sheets; maintains water plant records of work hours, and vacation and holiday time.
• Performs other related duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications

Associate's degree in biology or related field (Bachelor's preferred) required with one to two years experience as a laboratory analyst; or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this position. Must possess a Water Laboratory Analyst certification from the State.

Knowledge Required by the Position

• Considerable knowledge of the policies, procedures, and activities of the City and water laboratory and testing practices as they pertain to the performance of duties relating to the position of Laboratory Analyst.
• Considerable knowledge of water laboratory and testing practices as necessary in the completion of daily responsibilities.
• Knowledge of keeping abreast of any changes in policy, methods, computer operations, equipment needs, etc. as they pertain to water monitoring operations and activities.
• Ability to effectively communicate and interact with supervisors, and all other groups involved in the activities of the department.
• Ability to assemble information and make written reports and documents in a concise, clear and effective manner.
• Ability to use independent judgment as situations warrant.
• Ability to comprehend, interpret, and apply regulations, procedures, and related information.
• Comprehensive knowledge of the terminology, principles, and methods utilized within the department.
• Mathematical ability to handle required calculations using algebra, statistics, and trigonometry. Is knowledgeable and proficient with computers.

Supervisory Controls: Work is assigned by the Water Superintendent according to department goals and objectives.

Guidelines: Guidelines include Federal and State laws, rules, regulations, policies and procedures pertaining to water treatment.

Complexity: The work consists of water treatment/pretreatment maintenance tasks.

Scope and Effect: The purpose of this position is to provide responsible skilled and licensed work in the operation and maintenance of equipment in water treatment/pretreatment plants.

Personal Contacts: Contacts are typically with co-workers and the general public.

Purpose of Contacts: Contacts are typically to give and exchange information, resolve problems and provide services.

Physical Demands: Must be physically able to operate a variety of laboratory equipment, machines, and tools including a computer, spectrophotometer, incubator, water bath, pH meter, short wave radio, etc. Must be able to use body members to work, move or carry objects or materials. Must be able to exert up to twenty pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to ten pounds of force frequently. Physical demand requirements are at levels of those for active work. Must be able to lift and/or carry weight of twenty to forty pounds.

Work Environment: Wastewater plant environment; some exposure to dust and noise; some heavy lifting, standing, walking and climbing; may work at heights; work in inclement weather conditions; may work in confined spaces.