Laboratory Technician

To perform chemical, microbiological, and physical technical work on raw and potable water, wastewater, and stormwater to ensure compliance with all Federal, State and local guidelines.

• Collect samples of raw and potable water, wastewater, and stormwater and prepare samples for laboratory analysis using appropriate chain of custody, containers, preservation techniques, and holding times.

• Enter sample information into the data management system.

• Perform basic microbiological analysis of water and wastewater.

• Generate reports of sampling activities and maintain sampling equipment.

• Collect, receive and login samples from internal and external customers.  Use lab software to generate analysis bench sheets. Receive, review and enter data from subcontract labs.

• Wash and prepare laboratory glassware. Clean and disinfect laboratory areas;

• Perform the deployment and collection of composite samples from industrial waste streams;

• Act as courier for water and wastewater samples;

• Obtain a thorough knowledge of City policies, services, programs, and accepted business practices to insure compliance with all governing statutes;

• Meet the public with a high regard for courtesy and politeness, while maintaining the City's integrity and security pertinent to the overall operations; and

• Perform various other duties as may be assigned by the Supervisor, either temporary or permanent.

• Maintain a variety of records and logs including water and wastewater analysis, quality assurance, control charts and logbooks; prepare a variety of reports to meet the project needs of the client; prepare invoice reports for administrative staff to invoice clients.

• Maintain legally defensible data and records.  Prepare, preserve, and maintain chain of custody of samples; maintain sample tracking logs that meet regulatory requirements.

• Assist with maintaining lab equipment and chemical inventory. Procure lab supplies and equipment in accordance with City purchasing policy. Assist with troubleshooting instruments and analysis.

Knowledge: Operations, services and activities of a water and wastewater testing program: Modern and basic principles and practices of mathematics, chemistry, bacteriology, biology and physics; Chemical, biological, bacteriological and physical characteristics of drinking water, wastewater, and biosolids; Basic Qualitative and quantitative analysis involving organic and inorganic physical chemistry; Laboratory procedures, techniques and equipment relating to water, wastewater, and industrial waste analysis; Occupational hazards and standard safety practices; Modern laboratory procedures, methods and computer equipment; Pertinent Federal, State, and local laws, codes and regulations.

Skills: Communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing; Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work; Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities; Maintain mental capacity which allows the capability of making sound decisions and demonstrating intellectual capabilities; Maintain effective audio-visual discrimination and perception to the degree necessary for the successful performance of assigned duties and responsibilities.

Abilities: Perform a variety of physical, chemical, and microbiological tests; Properly operate a variety of laboratory instruments and equipment; Analyze, interpret, and apply the results of laboratory testing; Conduct chemical, biological and physical analysis of environmental samples; Prepare clear, concise and technical reports; Maintain valid Environmental Protection Agency, North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality, and North Dakota Department of Health Laboratory Certification; Interpret and explain laboratory policies and procedures.Experience:

Two to four years of experience conducting a variety of physical, chemical or biological tests in a research or analytical laboratory.

Training:

High School diploma. Associates degree from an accredited college with major course work in chemistry or a related physical sciences field preferred.

License or Certificate:

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid driver's license.