Job Description

Performs technical duties in the analysis of wastewater, surface water, well water and sludge (biosolids) samples to ensure compliance with a variety of state and federal regulations and permit requirements. In addition, this position is responsible for maintaining laboratory quality control guidelines, trouble-shooting equipment and QC failures and scheduling corrective-action(s), coordinating sampling schedules with operations staff, coordinating sampling for contract laboratory analysis, and coordinating work schedules and holiday coverage with other lab personnel. This position will also be directly involved in the compliance sampling, inspecting, and reporting of industrial users as part of the City?s Industrial Pretreatment Program.


Essential duties include:


Performs standard chemical, bacteriological, and physical examinations of wastewater samples to ensure compliance with state and federal environmental regulations. Maintains laboratory quality assurance/quality control documentation, including analytical bench sheets, logbook entries, sample calibration documentation, and chain-of-custody forms. Inputs data into computer system and helps maintain quality control on all resulting data; i.e. control charts, corrective action documentation, and method detection limit criteria. Prepares chemical reagents and bacteriological culture media. Operates, calibrates, maintains, and troubleshoots test equipment. Prepares, sorts, washes, decontaminates, sterilizes, and stores lab sample containers, glassware, and reagent/chemical containers. Cleans and organizes the laboratory and building; maintains chemical/reagent inventory. Performs routine quality control checks for all reagents. Analyzes storm water and well water samples. Assists in the Industrial Pretreatment Program by inspecting industrial sites, analyzing samples and reporting results. Assists in training Laboratory new hires. Leads lab tours for the general public. Performs other related duties as assigned.

The work is typically performed while standing, walking, bending, crouching or stooping. The employee frequently lifts light and occasionally heavy objects, distinguishes between shades of color, and utilizes the sense of smell. The work is typically performed in a laboratory. The employee may be exposed to contagious or infectious diseases, or irritating chemicals. Work requires the use of protective devices such as lab coats, safety glasses/goggles, gloves, etc.