Laboratory Technician I/Ii

Description

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DEFINITION

Under direct or general supervision, performs a variety of routine to complex duties in support of the Department including collecting samples of potable and recycled water, wastewater, and industrial wastes and performing field and laboratory physical, chemical, biological, and bacteriological tests on various matrices; and performs related duties, as assigned.

Essential and Marginal Duties

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives direct (Laboratory Technician I) or general (Laboratory Technician II) supervision from assigned supervisory or management staff and technical and functional direction and training from assigned supervisory or management staff. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

Laboratory Technician I: This is the entry-level classification in the Laboratory Technician series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents with basic experience learn City systems, operations, practices, and procedures. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied and are performed with greater independence. Assignments may vary with the skill and training of the incumbent. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the II-level, but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods.

Laboratory Technician II: This is the journey-level classification in the Laboratory Technician series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the I-level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.

Positions in the Laboratory Technician class series are flexibly staffed and positions at the II-level are normally filled by advancement from the I-level after gaining the knowledge, skill, and experience which meet the qualifications for and after demonstrating the ability to perform the work of the higher-level class.

Minimum Qualifications

EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only)

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

• Performs and interprets chemical, biochemical, biological, microbiological, and physical analyses of samples related to the treatment, quality control, and distribution of potable and recycled water, as well as treatment, quality control, and disposal of wastewater influent, effluent, and biosolids, following standard procedures and guidelines.

• Participates in the collection of samples at various sites throughout the water and wastewater systems for testing to determine the effectiveness of each stage of the treatment process.

• Sets up, calibrates, operates, and performs minor maintenance and repair to a variety of laboratory instruments and equipment.

• Prepares standard chemical solutions and reagents for laboratory and operations; disposes of outdated materials in a safe manner; prepares test kits for sampling, cleans glassware and equipment to ensure that the laboratory is maintained in a clean and orderly condition.

• Maintains accurate records of test results and work performed; assembles and records test data and results using database software; prepares draft charts, graphs, and written reports.

• Periodically monitors inventory of laboratory supplies; orders materials and equipment to maintain supply levels; updates order records.

• Maintains quality control and quality assurance and follows safe work procedures within standard operating procedures and protocols.

• Participates in analyzing and interpreting laboratory results, recognizing problems that may be occurring during the treatment process.

• Performs routine testing and analyses of potable water, recycled water, and wastewater effluent to maintain laboratory certification and ensure regulatory compliance.

• Responds to public complaints and questions regarding water quality issues.

• Consults with appropriate operations staff regarding analysis results as necessary.

• Assists less experienced staff as necessary; attends periodic trainings to stay abreast of methodological and regulatory changes relevant to the field of work.

• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Additional Information

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• Chemical, biological, and physical characteristics of various environmental matrices including water and wastewater.

• Principles, practices, techniques, equipment, and materials required for basic chemical, biochemical, biological, microbiological, and physical analysis of samples of potable water and wastewater.

• Sampling techniques and related statistical analysis techniques.

• Laboratory and wastewater plant safety procedures and equipment.

• Basic principles of water and wastewater treatment and distribution/disposal.

• Record-keeping principles and procedures.

• Principles and practices of data collection, analysis, and report preparation.

• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.

• The structure and content of the English language to perform the work.

• Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination.

• Computers and software programs (e.g., Microsoft software packages) to conduct, compile, and/or generate documentation.

Ability to:

• Perform basic chemical, biochemical, biological, microbiological, and physical analyses of various matrices including potable water and wastewater.

• Make appropriate recommendations for the laboratory, plant or drinking water operations based on results of laboratory analyses.

• Research, analyze, and summarize data, and prepare and present accurate and reliable reports containing findings and recommendations.

• Organize, maintain, and update database and records systems.

• Make accurate basic chemical, arithmetic, and statistical computations.

• Maintain attention to detail and accuracy.

• Identify and take appropriate action when operating problems occur.

• Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed.

• Learn and understand the organization and operation of the City and of outside agencies as necessary to assume assigned responsibilities.

• Independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.

• Effectively use computer systems, software applications, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.

• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.

• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.

• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Education and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Laboratory Technician I: Equivalent to graduation from the twelfth (12th) grade, supplemented by specialized training or college level course work in chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology or related sciences and two (2) years of experience performing chemical or bacteriological tests in a laboratory or treatment plant.

Laboratory Technician II: Equivalent to graduation from the twelfth (12th) grade, supplemented by specialized training or college level course work in chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology or related sciences and four (4) years of experience performing chemical or bacteriological tests in a laboratory or treatment plant.

Licenses and Certifications:

• Possession of, or the ability to obtain, a valid California Class C driver's license upon appointment.

• May be required to complete National Incident Management System (NIMS) Training.

Laboratory Technician I: Possession of a Grade I Laboratory Analyst certification issued by the California Water Environment Association (CWEA) within two (2) years of appointment.

Laboratory Technician II: Possession of a Grade II Laboratory Analyst certification issued by the CWEA upon appointment.

The City of Tracy provides a generous benefit package to employees in the Teamsters Unit. A summary of key benefits is listed below. More information can be found in the Benefit Summary and in the Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Tracy and General Teamsters Local No. 439, IBT.

Health Benefits

• Choice administered through Teamsters Benefit Trust

• Kaiser or United Healthcare health insurance plans available after a 3 month waiting period with generous City contribution.

Dental and Vision Plans

• Choice of United Healthcare, Liberty Dental, or Delta Dental plans available (Delta Dental is available after completion of 12 months of eligibility in the Trust Fund in addition to a 3 month waiting period). VSP is available for Vision coverage.

Life Insurance

• Individual coverage of $30,000. Premium is fully paid by the City.

Retirement Program

• CalPERS (formula dependent on hire date and member status in CalPERS). Voluntary 457 Deferred Compensation programs available (MissionSquare & AIG/VALIC). The City participates in Social Security.

Paid Leave and Holidays

• General vacation accrues at the rate of 96 hours per year the first year and progresses up to 192 hours per year at 16 years of service. Sick leave is accrued at a rate of 96 hours per year with unlimited accrual. There are 14 paid holidays per year ( includes 2 floating holidays).

Dependent Care and Medical Spending Accounts - (IRS Section 125): Available to eligible employees on a voluntary basis.

Uniform Allowance

• Parks and Recreation Department and Public Works Department: Provided and maintained by the City. Fire Inspector: Shirt provided, jacket provided as needed. Crime Scene Technician, Animal Services Officer, Crime Prevention Specialist, Community Service Officer, and Property/Evidence Technicians shall be paid an annual uniform allowance in the amount of $800 per year. Safety Boot Allowance: Limited reimbursement up to $190 per fiscal year.

Additional Benefits

• Employee Assistance Program, AFLAC, Tool Replacement, Employee Credit Union, Direct Deposit, Scholarshare529 and Tuition Reimbursement.

01

I understand that in order for my application to receive every consideration in the selection process, I must complete the following Supplemental Questions. I understand these responses must match the information I provide in the Work Experience and Education sections of my application (do not answer "see resume"). I certify that all information provided on this application and the Supplemental Questions is true to the best of my knowledge.

• Yes

02

Have you worked for a public sector agency (e.g. City, County or Special District)?

• Yes

• No

03

If you answered yes to the question above, please indicate the name of each agency you have worked for. If you answered no, indicate N/A.

04

Please select your highest level of education.

• High School Diploma or GED

• Some college coursework

• Associate's Degree

• Bachelor's Degree

• Master's Degree

• Other

05

If you selected a degree earned or some college coursework in the question above, indicate the degree major or college coursework completed. If none, indicate N/A

06

How many years of work experience do you possess performing chemical or bacteriological tests in a laboratory or treatment plant?

• None

• Some, but less than 2 years

• 2-3 years

• 4-5 years

• More than 5 years

07

Describe the work experience rated in the question above. If none, indicate N/A

08

Do you currently possess a Grade I or Grade II Laboratory Analyst certification issued by the California Water Environment Association (CWEA)?

• Yes

• No

09

If you answered "YES" to the question above, list all current certifications you possess. If you answered "NO" to the question above, indicate "N/A

Required Question

Agency City of Tracy

Address 333 Civic Center Plaza

Tracy, California, 95376

Phone 209-831-6150

209-831-6158

Website http://www.cityoftracy.org