Laboratory Analyst

The City of Manassas welcomes applications for our Laboratory Analyst opportunity! For this role, we are seeking a driven and self-motivated individual with a background in water, wastewater, and/or environmental sciences. This exciting position provides great autonomy and is perfect for an individual who enjoys variety in their day. If this is you, apply today! Consider joining our team! The Laboratory Analyst is responsible for collecting water samples, performing microbiological and chemical analyses, coordinating laboratory service needs, monitoring water quality to ensure compliance with established state and federal regulations, and performing environmental compliance inspections for the Department of Utilities. Hiring range for this position is: $30.39 – $41.79/hour, based on education and experience. This position is open until filled and may close at any time. The successful incumbent's main responsibilities in this role consist of the following: Collects water samples from a variety of sources throughout the City of Manassas including: the City's water distribution system, municipal separate stormwater system (MS4), water treatment plant, Lake Manassas, and natural streams. Collects samples of wastewater, soils and solids residuals from a variety of locations throughout the City and the Water Treatment Plant for special Utilities projects requiring in-house and/or external laboratory services. Perform laboratory analyses for bacteriological and chemical parameters on water samples to monitor water quality throughout the City for compliance with Virginia Department of Health (VDH), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), and internal process control requirements. Perform microscopic examinations of lake samples for algae counts and identification. Perform routine stormwater inspections in compliance with the City MS4 permit: Inspect management facilities, and provides inspections documentation and reports to the Environmental Planner. Assist the Environmental Planner with dry weather screening of regulated stormwater outfalls, and responding to reports of illicit discharges or other stormwater pollution concerns. Manages laboratory and field sampling records and materials: Records data for quality control of laboratory supplies and equipment; manages laboratory records for compliance audits; ensures record keeping and organization of both written and electronic documentation of laboratory analyses and field sampling events. Manages the purchasing and inventory control of instruments, equipment, and supplies for the Water Treatment Plant Compliance Lab, and for MS4 field work operations: Conducts preventative maintenance, calibration, troubleshooting and repair activities for laboratory and field sampling and/or monitoring equipment. Compiles data for City, regional partners and outside regulatory agencies including VDH, DEQ and EPA, and assists with compiling data for monthly electronic discharge monitoring report (eDMR), waterworks monthly operational report (MOR), seasonal source water monitoring reports, annual consumer confidence reports, and annual MS4 report. All work must comply with the State regulations to maintain the laboratory's certifications: Completes and maintains proficiency testing to maintain laboratory certification with The Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services (DCLS). Participates in laboratory inspections. Reviews, updates, and composes Standard Operating procedures (SOPs) and updates Laboratory Quality Assurance Manual. Completes Initial Demonstration of Capability (IDC) and Method Detection Level (MDL) studies as required. Bachelor's degree in environmental science or studies, urban planning, environmental engineering, biology, chemistry, hydrogeology, or related field Two years of directly related laboratory experience Must possess and maintain a valid Virginia driver's license An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience, which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities for this job may be considered. Preferred Qualifications Familiarity with environmental science, water quality monitoring, stormwater management and/or water resource management. Knowledge of the Virginia Pollution Discharge Elimination System (VPDES) and Phase I MS4 permit regulations, and of the other applicable federal, state and local laws, regulations, codes and ordinances related to waterworks operations, drinking water quality and stormwater management. Experience using GIS web applications and editing GIS data. General knowledge of stormwater best management practices (BMPs) and stormwater pollution prevention plans (SWPPPs) Education or experience in reading and utilizing Utility mapping, engineering and construction/site plans related to stormwater management. Successful candidates will have demonstrated ability using Microsoft Office software, especially Excel. This position requires possession of Virginia DEQ Stormwater Management Inspector certification within 12 months of hire, or as class scheduling permits. #J-18808-Ljbffr