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 advanced level professional duties and responsibilities in support of water and wastewater treatment laboratory programs; perform complex chemical, microbiological and physical analyses on water, wastewater, biosolid, and industrial pretreatment samples; evaluate, verify and report results to appropriate agency; assist in laboratory management functions; 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 advanced level professional duties in support of water and wastewater treatment laboratory program; perform complex chemical, microbiological and physical analysis on water, wastewater, biosolids, and industrial pretreatment samples.

2.  Collect, label, preserve and prepare samples for analyses; maintain accurate sample logs and chains of custody; oversee the use, care and operation of laboratory equipment; troubleshoot equipment malfunctions; maintain and clean laboratory equipment; sterilize and calibrate laboratory equipment; maintain chemical inventory and supply levels; order and transport chemicals and supplies as necessary; research and recommend the purchase of new equipment and instruments.

3.  Perform advanced mathematical calculations and statistical analyses on data; monitor and produce quality, representative and accurate data meeting legally defensible criteria; perform extensive peer review of data; maintain records and logs of data; assist in preparing and completing reports relevant to regulatory monitoring and process control requirements.

4.  Serve as Quality Assurance coordinator for the lab; supervise data generated for accuracy, quality and compliance with quality assurance program; review, validate and update quality control manual, computer data records, bench sheets and control charts and limits; assist in performing laboratory certification audits.

5.  Serve as Safety Coordinator for the laboratory; review, update and maintain Chemical Hygiene Plan and Material Safety Data Sheets; inspect laboratory facility for unsafe conditions; review work of laboratory staff to ensure compliance with safety policies and procedures; prepare and conduct safety meetings; provide or arrange for required safety training; assist in accident investigation.

6.  Serve as Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) Officer; perform software audits; develop new data bases/menus/tests as needed; perform extensive data entry with speed and accuracy; validate and approve peer entered data.

7.  Assist with reviewing, updating, and implementing new analytical methods; evaluate established methods for accuracy and relevance; determine what new methods are needed; develop new methods including writing SOPs and training lab staff.

8.  Perform other duties of a similar nature or level.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

Operations, services and activities of a water and wastewater treatment laboratory testing program.

Modern and advanced principles and practices of chemistry, bacteriology, biology and physics.

Chemical, biological, bacteriological and physical characteristics of drinking water, wastewater, and biosolids.

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.

Applicable tools and equipment operations.

Applicable Federal, State and local codes, laws and regulations.

Ability to:

Perform complex chemical, microbiological and physical analysis on water, wastewater, biosolids,and pretreatment samples.

Perform a variety of complex laboratory analyses and procedures.

Properly operate and maintain a variety of laboratory instruments and equipment.

Analyze, interpret, apply, and report results of laboratory data, analyses, and projects.

Interpret and explain laboratory policies and procedures.

Maintain accurate records and documentation.

Prepare clear and concise technical and administrative reports.

Analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions and implement recommendations in support of goals.

Respond to requests and inquiries from the general public and City employees.

Research, analyze, evaluate, and develop new testing methods and procedures.

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:

 Three (3) years of increasingly responsible water and wastewater laboratory analysis experience.

 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, Colorado “D” water or wastewater operator certification within 24 months.

Possession of, or ability to obtain, a CPR/First Aid certification within 12 months of hire.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Environmental Conditions:

The job is performed in the following working environment:

Field and laboratory environment.

The following condition(s) may be present on a continuing basis:

Physical Conditions:

The job is characterized by:

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.