Environmental Lab Technician

Environmental Health Lab Technician

Do you have a good knowledge of the principles of environmental sciences, chemistry, biology and laboratory techniques, practices, and procedures? Then we invite you to apply today. We are looking for a new team member to join us working as an Environmental Health Lab Technician in Wheaton. In this role, you will be responsible for conducting potable and non-potable water testing and related tasks, as well as managing all quality control related procedures for our internal water laboratory. This position includes a paid training program that includes job shadowing, structured training activities, and review of state code and lab manual procedures. State certification will be provided as a certified lab analyst for potable water analysis. This is a full-time position, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am-4:30. Salary may increase based on experience.

As a DuPage County employee, you will receive a comprehensive benefit package to include, 12 paid vacation days, 5 paid personal days, 12 paid Holidays, 12 weeks of paid parental leave, accrued sick leave and affordable health insurance coverage through Blue Cross Blues Shield. We offer tuition reimbursement as well as eligibility for a Federal Student Load Forgiveness Program. This is a pension-eligible position, for a secure retirement.

Responsibilities

• Performs a variety of environmental tests and procedures including, water/wastewater sampling and testing and chemical analysis.
• Operates a variety of laboratory equipment, e.g., microscope, autoclave, pipettes, etc.
• Prepares and processes specimens for either internal or external testing, including packaging and completing chain of custody documentation.
• Develops and maintains quality control procedures in compliance with applicable laboratory regulatory authorities such as IEPA, IDPH, USEPA.
• Contacts clients via telephone to communicate results and corresponding follow-up actions; performs data entry for testing results.
• Prepares and distributes specimen kits to staff.
• Maintains current listing of certified laboratories who provide out-of-house testing; meets established productivity standards.
• Develops and maintains training for internal staff.
• Acts as back-up for administrative staff.
• Produces reports for internal staff and external agencies.
• Responds to client questions and complaints.
• Follows proper methods of infection control and sterilization.
• Manages biohazard waste storage for the agency.
• Maintains a clean work area.
• Maintains, calibrates and trouble-shoots lab equipment; assists with field collection of specimens and samples during foodborne or other illness outbreaks.
• Provides supervision to assigned interns.
• Maintains confidentiality of privileged information and adheres to patient privacy laws.
• Adheres to department guidelines for attendance and punctuality.
• Maintains required training, licensure, and/or certification.
• Shows sensitivity and understanding of other ethnic groups and cultures.
• Participates in emergency response activities as assigned.
• Assist with mosquito identification and testing.

Requirements

Completion of an Associate's Degree in Chemistry, Biological, or a related field and a minimum of six (6) months of experience performing laboratory water sampling and analysis; or an equivalent combination of training and experience that complies with State requirements.

Supplemental Information

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS: Good knowledge of laboratory safety and quality control practices. Working skill in performing laboratory analysis; working skill in the operation of laboratory equipment; working skill in interpreting results where there may be multiple variables; working skill in maintaining accurate reports and quality control; working skill in written and verbal communication; working skill in developing and maintaining positive and professional relationships with internal and external customers; working skill in operating applicable computer hardware, software, and peripheral equipment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to lift and carry/and or move a minimum of 25 pounds. The work environment for this position frequently includes working with hazardous materials and chemicals and around odors.

Equal Opportunity Employer DuPage County Health Department is an equal-opportunity employer. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.