CHEMIST I

Job Description

Job Description

CHEMIST

Salary Range $82,222.40 - $128,585.60

$39.53 - $61.82 per Hour

KIND OF EXAMINATION : Applicants will be screened based on education and experience as submitted in the application and supplemental questionnaire forms online at For this reason, applicants are urged to answer all questions on the application form and questionnaire completely, providing detailed information concerning the kinds of jobs they have held, the dates they held them, where, and exactly what their duties were. An application is not considered complete if the Supplemental Questionnaire is not submitted with your application. Application and Supplemental Questionnaire information will be accepted ONLINE ONLY at ALL pre-employment offers are contingent upon passing a mandatory drug test and a satisfactory result of a background investigation.

PURPOSE OF EXAMINATION : To establish an employment register to fill future vacancies with the Water Works and Sanitary Sewer Board of the City of Montgomery.

CLOSING DATE : Application and supplemental questionnaire information will be accepted online at beginning July 13, 2026 .

NATURE OF WORK

This is an area of professional work in which analysis and examination of environmental constituents is performed under the direct supervision of the Lab Manager.

The employee in this classification performs technical chemical and microbiological analyses of water, wastewater, and other environmental samples; operates and maintains laboratory equipment; performs related tasks associated with data computation, reporting, and laboratory quality assurance/quality control.

Reports directly to the Lab Manager and is also under the general supervision of the Director of Environmental Services.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES to include, but are not limited to, the following:

Performs highly technical chemical, physical and microbiological analyses on water, wastewater, soils, biosolids and industrial wastes.

Performs analyses according to established approved methodology, standard operating procedures and laboratory quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) requirements, including all documentation as required for compliance with applicable federal, state, and other regulatory requirements.

Prepares and documents chemical and microbiological standards and reagents that meet quality and regulatory requirements.

Performs mathematical calculations and statistical analyses for test results, using both manual and computer-based applications.

Prepares and maintains a variety of records and reports relating to laboratory activities, ensuring the accuracy, timeliness, and integrity of data.

Reads, interprets, updates, and implements complex technical documents from established guidelines as needed.

Recognizes changes and trends in routine water, wastewater, soil, biosolids and industrial waste analytical results and follows up as needed.

Generates quality control data such as MDLs and control charts in accordance with external and internal standards.

Complies with safety requirements for laboratory work and actively promotes safe work practices.

Ensures that all supplies required for analytical procedures are ordered, maintained, and quality control verified.

Follows established procedures for the safe disposal of hazardous waste items and materials.

Performs duties while adhering to good laboratory practices, maintaining a clean work environment, and following all laboratory ethics and standards.

NON-ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES to include the following:

Performs other duties as may be required.

REQUIREMENTS OF WORK

Knowledge of the principles, practices and standards of chemical and microbiological analyses and laboratory operations.

Ability to perform a variety of chemical and biological tests and analytical procedures on a variety of substances and materials.

Ability to generate reproducible results and pass required proficiency testing within set time constraints.

Ability to manage multiple instruments and methods concurrently while organizing testing procedures and schedules that adhere to hold time requirements with a variable sample load.

Ability to obtain and maintain certifications for assigned methods and interact with onsite auditors in a professional and competent manner.

Knowledge of advanced chemical and microbiological laboratory methods, techniques, equipment, and materials.

Knowledge of the sources of information and the current literature in the field of laboratory analyses.

Knowledge of laboratory safety requirements, ensuring that safety precautions and guidelines are followed.

Ability to prepare scientifically accurate and thorough reports of work performed.

Ability to establish quality control testing within laboratory procedures.

Ability to operate a personal computer or word processor.

Ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships with other employees and supervisors.

Ability to function independently and as part of a team to coordinate coverage for sample analysis to meet analytical and holding time requirements.

REQUIRED TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Microbiology, or equivalent science degree.

Have and maintain a valid driver's license and be insurable by the Board's insurance carrier.

DESIRED TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

Experience working in a state or federally certified laboratory.

Experience working in a water, wastewater, or environmental laboratory.

PHYSICAL ABILITIES

Ability to sit, stand, and perform sedentary work for extended periods.

Ability to see, hear, smell, and speak within normal tones and ranges.

Ability to lift and carry 25 pounds for up to 50 feet.

Ability to work some weekends and holidays.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work is performed mostly in a professional laboratory setting but may include occasional field work, both during normal business hours and periodically after normal business hours as required.