Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.
DEFINITION
Perform professional duties and responsibilities in support of water and wastewater quality treatment laboratory programs; perform chemical, microbiological and physical analysis on water, wastewater, and biosolid samples; maintain data records and logs; perform a variety of duties relative to assigned areas of responsibility.
JOB CLASSIFICATION
Exempt, Safety Sensitive.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives direction from the Laboratory Supervisor.
PRIMARY DUTIES--The following are examples of primary duties assigned to positions in this classification. Other related duties and responsibilities may be assigned.
1. Perform professional duties in support of water and wastewater control programs; collect, preserve, and prepare samples for analysis; label bottles and log in samples; maintain chain of custody of samples; prepare standard solutions and reagents for use in the laboratory; prepare and sterilize media and other supplies.
2. Perform a variety of standard chemical, biological, microbiological and physical analysis involved in testing of water and wastewater samples in accordance with established methods; ensure compliance with regulations; assist in resolving concerns or compliance issues.
3. Operate a variety of laboratory equipment; troubleshoot equipment malfunctions; assist in the maintenance and cleaning of laboratory equipment; sterilize, and calibrate laboratory equipment; order and maintain laboratory inventory; stock necessary supplies.
4. Perform mathematical calculations and statistical analysis on data; establish quality, representative, accurate, and legally defensible data; maintain records and logs of data; assist in preparing and completing reports relevant to regulatory monitoring and process control requirements.
5. Provide information and respond to customer inquiries regarding water and/or wastewater quality.
6. Participate in the development of lab procedures and quality control techniques; verify data, analysis, and calculations; perform side-by-side comparison studies; research and provide recommendation on more precise, expedient and cost effective instrumentation and procedures.
7. Participate in laboratory safety meetings and trainings; assist in accident investigations; inspect and maintain safety equipment; ensure compliance with mandated safety requirements.
8. Assist with reviewing, updating, and implementing new analytical methods; evaluate established methods for accuracy and relevance; determine what new methods are needed.
9. Perform other duties of a similar nature or level.
QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
Operations, services and activities of a water and wastewater laboratory testing program. Standard methods used in the analysis of water and wastewater samples.
Principles of chemistry and microbiological analysis and testing.
Analytical instrument theory and operational characteristics of modern laboratory instruments and equipment.
Procedures of sample collection, preparation, preservation and analysis.
Laboratory quality assurance and quality control principles and practices.
Laboratory safety and chemical disposal techniques.
Principles of data collection, record keeping, and report preparation.
Advanced mathematical concepts, including statistical analysis and comparison.
English usage, spelling, grammar and punctuation.
Modern office technology and equipment, including computers and related software applications.
Water and wastewater treatment processes.
Applicable tools and equipment operations.
Applicable Federal, State and local codes, laws and regulations.
Ability to:
Perform a variety of laboratory analysis and procedures.
Properly operate and maintain a variety of laboratory instruments and equipment.
Analyze, interpret, apply, and report results of laboratory data, analysis, and projects. Interpret and explain laboratory policies and procedures.
Maintain accurate records and documentation.
Perform assigned work in accordance with appropriate safety practices and regulations. Prepare clear and concise technical and administrative reports.
Respond to requests and inquiries from the general public and City employees.
Interpret and apply Federal, State and local policies, laws and regulations.
Operate and use modern office equipment including computer and various software applications.
Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Experience and Training Guidelines
Minimum Requirements:
Experience:
Two (2) years of experience in the collection and analysis of water and/or wastewater samples.
Training:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in chemistry, biology or a science related field.
Other combinations of experience and education that meet the minimum requirements may be substituted.
License or Certificate
Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Colorado driver's license.
Possession of, or ability to obtain, a CPR/First Aid certificate within 12 months of hire.
Possession of, or ability to obtain, Colorado “D” water or wastewater certification within 24 months of hire.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Environmental Conditions:
Field and laboratory environment.
The following condition(s) may be present on a continuing basis:
Atmospheric Conditions (fumes, odors, dusts, gases, poor ventilation)
Hazardous materials (chemicals, blood and other body fluids, etc.)
Local Travel
Physical Conditions:
The job is characterized by:
Medium Work: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
The following physical activities are very or extremely important in accomplishing the job's purpose and are performed on a daily basis:
Position requires hearing, talking, sitting, standing, walking on level and slippery surfaces, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, stooping, squatting, crouching, grasping and making repetitive hand movement. The employee will be exposed to varying weather conditions that may be hot, cold, or wet. The employee is also required to perform occasional light lifting.