Physical Science Laboratory Technician

Physical Science Laboratory Technician Overview The United States Geological Survey (USGS) is the nation’s largest water, earth, and biological science and civilian mapping agency, serving as the science arm for the Department of the Interior (DOI). For over a century, the USGS delivers unbiased science used by decision-makers, federal agencies, industry, and the public. The National Water Quality Laboratory (NWQL) reports to the Laboratory & Analytical Services Division (LASD) within the Water Mission Area at the USGS and is the primary laboratory for determining organic and inorganic constituents in groundwater, surface water, river and lake sediments, aquatic plant and animal tissues, benthic invertebrate populations, and atmospheric precipitation. NWQL is the primary laboratory for USGS for determining organic and inorganic constituents in groundwater, surface water, river and lake sediments, aquatic plant and animal tissues, as well as for identifying and enumerating benthic invertebrate populations and analyzing atmospheric precipitation from the United States and its protectorates. To accomplish its mission, the NWQL necessitates technicians to batch samples in a computing system, perform basic measurements in support of federal chemists. Place of Performance Personnel will provide services in‑person/on‑site at the USGS National Water Quality Laboratory, Building 95, Denver Federal Center, Lakewood, CO 80225. Hours of Operation Personnel shall maintain a normal schedule Monday through Friday, working 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. Hours shall be performed between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. (subject to change per NWQL Memo 08.01 Policy for Conducting Chemical and Other Potentially Hazardous Operations at the NWQL). Work hours must provide maximum responsiveness to the Government’s requirements as it applies to Safety compliance and operations. Any Hours Outside of Normal Schedule Requires Prior Approval from Montech and Government Teleworking is not permitted. On‑site work performed outside the normal workdays and core hours specified herein is subject to prior approval. Building access outside the normal workdays and core hours may be limited. Any hours over 8 per day, or 40 hours per week are considered overtime. This is not authorized without prior approval. Summary of Responsibilities and Measuring Success The tasks involve daily sample preparation and analysis of environmental samples with short expiration dates (holding times) associated with the following lab codes. The Physical Science Laboratory Technician is responsible for following responsibilities in alignment with the Performance Work Statement and the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP) set forth by USGS, NWQL. Daily Tasks Batch samples in computing system (LIMS). Retrieve samples associated with each batch. Follow sample preparation procedures per NWQL SOPs and guidelines. Operate entry‑level instruments to test environmental samples per USGS method Standard Operating Procedures. Monitor the run and re‑prepare/re‑run QC samples once if needed to rule out random errors. Notify management if QA/QC criteria is not met for Federal staff to troubleshoot the instrument. Provide reports of completed analytical testing and attest to the validity of the data in compliance with the USGS methods/SOPs. Upload the data in LIMS. Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP) Each task/responsibility requires 99% (or better) of completion and accuracy as the “Acceptable Quality Level”. The inspection technique will include a daily (or weekly/monthly) review for completeness. The Government may monitor performance of routine functional requirements and outputs, as well as the milestones and deliverables of specific project requirements as deemed necessary to ensure acceptable progress and compliance with contract requirements. The Government may use a variety of methods to evaluate performance. The Quality Assurance Plan focuses on key performance measures that are central to accurate support of office activities and that have the highest potential for having an adverse effect on accurate research accomplishment. Contractor (Montech Inc.) and the Contracting Officer Representative (COR) shall monitor the working relationship between the Government and Contractor personnel to ensure that services do NOT develop into a personal service relationship as defined in FAR 37.104. Questions concerning this matter shall immediately be directed to Montech’s Program Manager. Monthly Progress Report Each Task Order will be required to provide metrics, accomplishments, progress, issues encountered, etc. on a monthly basis. Montech Program Manager will communicate instructions and provide template for submission. Due at the end of each month. Qualifications The Physical Science Laboratory Technician shall possess a minimum of four (4) years of industry experience. Candidate must possess a High School Diploma; a preferred associate degree or similar advanced degree. Preferred: Proficiency utilizing Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and other automated laboratory systems (for log‑in and database entry). Prepare and analyze trace level environmental samples in air, water, sediment and tissues. Mathematical skills such as Algebra. Experience with automated laboratory systems. Experience with programs such as Microsoft Suite. Fully trained and possess the knowledge and skills necessary to support the responsibilities of this role and Task Order (including using US EPA, Standard Methods and/or USGS Methods). Physical Demands and Other Requirements Instrumental analysis and sample preparation require physical exertion of lifting 35 pounds and bending, reaching, stooping, walking and standing for prolonged periods at a laboratory bench. Office work is sedentary and may involve long periods at a desk or computer. Health Examinations Pre‑employment medical exams will be used to assess Contractor employee suitability for work outlined in the Task Order Performance Work Statement. These exams are based on the OPM OF 178 Certificate of Medical Examination and will be paid for directly by the government using a third‑party medical facility. Security Employment is contingent upon the ability to pass the pre‑employment drug test, background check, and Federal security investigation per required level with the U.S. Government (Public Trust). Applicants must be a citizen of the United States of America or a lawfully admitted permanent resident who has resided in the United States for a minimum of 3 years. The background investigation reviews employment, criminal, financial, and personal history to ensure there are no outstanding violations. To gain Entry of Duty to commence work, applicants must complete the online questionnaire (e‑QIP/eAPP), Fair Credit Release, OF‑306, National Criminal History Check (NCHC) and National Agency Check with Inquiries (NACI) or higher, and be fingerprinted for an FBI criminal history and credit report. Safety Management (Buddy System) The NWQL is a chemical operation which deals with hazardous chemicals. The Buddy System is a safety requirement that each employee be monitored visually or audibly by at least one other employee in the work area, providing rapid assistance in case of emergency. The Buddy System is enforced for all personnel working in a chemical environment such as a laboratory area. During regular, official operating hours the buddy system will be active and the SHE office will have primary responsibility for spill containment, clean up, and notification to the Department of Homeland Security or the Mega Center. Outside of official operating hours, four requirements must exist for any chemical operation to proceed: written approval by the appropriate supervisor or Management Team member; spill containment training for the employees performing the operations; prior notification and written approval by the SHE office; and application of the Buddy System. Personnel on USGS, NWQL Contract The Physical Science Laboratory Technician is a member of the Montech Inc. contract. Montech will ensure all personnel possess the necessary education, training, qualifications and experience. Training mandatory by the NWQL to comply with accreditation criteria, including hazardous communication, hazardous waste, and state and federal safety regulations. Required Training Nelac Institute (TNI): Up‑to‑date training including current Demonstration of Capability (DOC) documentation in personnel file. Safety: Mandatory safety training classes required by Colorado and OSHA. Ethics: Annual ethics training administered via web‑based courses or speakers. Mandatory Government Training: IT security and other mandatory training within designated time frames. Privacy Act of 1974: Strict compliance with the Act and agency regulations; NDAs implemented as necessary. Conservation of Utilities and Sustainability Practices: Energy and water efficiency, renewable energy product use, and prevention of waste. Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) and Usage of Government Furnished Property (GFP) Personnel will be provided with suitable working environment and a personal computer with access to appropriate host computer and auxiliary hardware and software required for contract performance. Personnel must observe and follow USGS policies on the use of government equipment. Contractor Representation NWQL requires that personnel present a neat appearance and be easily recognized by wearing a Security Identification Badge at all times while on Government premises. When attending meetings, answering phones, or in other situations, they must identify themselves as “Montech Inc. Contractor Personnel in support of USGS, NWQL” to avoid the impression of government employment. Professionalism, Responsiveness, and Quality Personnel must demonstrate sound judgment, foresight, problem‑solving skills, excellent oral and written communication, customer service skills, adaptability to fast‑paced work, competency in managing schedules and automated systems, research and data gathering skills, ability to interpret and analyze complex information, work independently within contract guidelines, Microsoft Office proficiency, and a professional demeanor at all times. Personnel must maintain a clean appearance and adhere to required attire. Equal Opportunity Employer Montech Inc. is dedicated to the principles of equal employment opportunity (EEO). The Company prohibits unlawful discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, genetic information, sexual identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, veteran status, marital status, or any other status protected by federal, state or local laws. This job description is not all inclusive of the tasks that may be assigned to the Physical Science Laboratory Technician. #J-18808-Ljbffr Montech Inc