Water Quality Chemist

Are you passionate about water and protecting public health and the environment?

***ONLY PINELLAS COUNTY GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES IN THE UTILITIES DEPARTMENT (WATER QUALITY DIVISION) MAY APPLY***

Pinellas County Utilities is seeking a Chemist with expertise in chemistry, biology, environmental, and physical sciences. The Utility Department's Water Quality Laboratory is a state certified laboratory that analyzes both environmental and drinking water samples. As a Chemist, you will perform professional scientific work conducting chemical, biological, microbiological and physical analysis of drinking water, environmental water and solids/sludges. Chemists maintain accurate and comprehensive records, exercise independent judgment, demonstrate skills of proficiency, and uphold precision and accuracy of data to ensure quality assurance compliance. Work is performed under the general direction of a Chemist Supervisor.

This position Chemist 1 (Water Quality Chemist) located at: Logan Laboratory, 1620 Ridge Road, Building B, Largo, FL 33778. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday; 8:00 am - 4:30 pm; Occasional weekend and holidays.

What Would You Do?

• Performs analyses primarily using specialized techniques and sophisticated automated and standard instrumentation such as auto analyzers, spectrophotometers, ion chromatography systems, mass spectrometers, incubators, balances and hot block digesters.
• Performs preliminary troubleshooting of complex analytical problems.
• Acts as technical lead worker as required.
• Suggests modifications to standard and regulatory methods or develops and documents new laboratory methods for review by Senior Chemist.
• Performs preliminary troubleshooting, calibration, and maintenance of automated analyzing equipment/instrumentation.
• Provides lists of materials and supplies needed to ensure the proper and timely operation of assigned lab section.
• Conduct analytical tests on drinking water and environmental samples for bacteria, metals, nutrients, and wet chemistry parameters following procedures established by Standard Methods, EPA or ASTM.
• Operate laboratory instrumentation and use specialized analytical techniques, (pipetting, counting, observing, recording).
• Prepare glassware, media, stock solutions, and extractions as required for testing.
• Adhere to established protocols and follow standard operating procedures.
• Maintain accurate and comprehensive records to ensure traceability of all testing procedures
• Perform demonstrations of capability in accordance with environmental regulations and laboratory procedures/best practices.
• Review preliminary data for quality control, permitting, and regulatory compliance.
• Input data into a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) database.
• Participate in laboratory audits in accordance to the National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (NELAP).
• Contribute to the overall effectiveness of Laboratory operations and participate in a team-oriented work environment.
• Performs related work as assigned or required.

What Do You Need to Have?

Experience: General laboratory analysis.

Degree: Chemistry, microbiology, biology, environmental science or related discipline; or

• 4 years' experience as described above.
• Associate's degree and 2 years' experience as described above.
• Bachelors' or higher-level degree and some experience as described above.
• An equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Possession and maintenance of a valid State of Florida Driver's License upon hire with eligibility based upon evaluation of a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) driving report.
• Assignment to work a variety of work schedules including compulsory work periods in special, emergency, and/or disaster situations.

Highly Desirable

• Experience working in a Drinking Water and/or Environmental laboratory.
• Experience in the operation, maintenance and troubleshooting of analytical equipment.
• Knowledge of sewage treatment and disposal, industrial wastes, stream pollution or the methods for treating and testing water supply systems, depending on area of assignment.
• Knowledge of local,state,and federal laws and regulations pertaining to water quality, wastewater treatment, and data validity.
• Experience working in a NELAP certified microbiology lab.
• Experience working with Laboratory Information Management Systems and proficient in the use of Word, Excel, Outlook, Power Point and other applicable computer software applications.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to perform a variety of laboratory tests on water, wastewater, or sludge samples, and to prepare and standardize laboratory reagents.
• Ability to meet deadlines, multi-task and follow written procedures.
• Ability to communicate effectively and maintain effective working relationships with Pinellas County employees at all levels.
• Understanding of chemical and biological hazards associated with working in an environmental laboratory. How to properly use and wear personal protective equipment (i.e. safety glasses, gloves, lab coat).
• Knowledge of OSHA regulations and recognized safety operating practices for laboratorywork.
• Ability to present scientific ideas and findings clearly and concisely in written,oraland graphic form.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail

Why Choose Pinellas County?

When you join Pinellas County, you're not just taking on a job-you're investing in your future. We believe in supporting our employees with exceptional benefits that help you thrive both professionally and personally. Here's why our benefits stand out as some of the best in the area:

• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Enjoy affordable medical, dental, vision, life insurance, flexible spending accounts, and more that meet the needs of you and your family.
• Florida Retirement System (FRS): Secure your financial future with a robust retirement plan that gives you peace of mind as you plan for tomorrow.
• Generous leave time: Take advantage of time off to recharge and enjoy life outside of work.
• Wellness Program: Access to county gyms 24/7 and wellness programs as part of our commitment to employee wellness.
• Deferred compensation: Build your savings and plan for the future with flexible deferred compensation options tailored to your financial goals.
• To learn more, see What We Offer

Want to Learn More?

Please review the full classification description with the Physical/Mental Demands and Working Conditions at the below link.

Chemist 1