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Job Description
Grade 15: Starting hourly rate: $20.95. Rate of pay depends on qualifications.
Job Description
JOB SUMMARY
The Environmental Laboratory Analyst is responsible for performing routine laboratory analysis functions that include sample preparations and analysis in accordance with the established federal, state, and local regulations. The analyst performs these analyses including the required quality control and reporting results in the laboratory management software within the required turnaround time (meeting client objectives). In addition, the analyst may function as the sample custodian in sample receipt as well as performing waste disposal functions in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
For All Specialties- Prioritizes and organizes daily workload based on required turnaround time.
- Cleans and prepares laboratory equipment and glassware using solvents and/or cleaners that are appropriate to the item’s analytical function.
- Keeps workstation stocked and organized, performs physical inventory of chemicals and supplies.
- Records laboratory data into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
- Comprehends and follows laboratory Quality Assurance Plan (QAP).
- Performs other duties as assigned.
- Performs biosolids preparation, chemical analyses to determine pH, conductivity, turbidity, solids, acidity, alkalinity, volatile acids, demand, ammonia, total Kjeldahl nitrogen, total phosphorus, oil and grease, cyanide, chlorophyll, phenolics, residual chlorine, color, and/or odor, and microbiological analyses to determine total and fecal coliform in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures, calibrates, operates, and maintains test equipment needed to perform analyses.
- Records test results in LIMS and reviews quality control charts to verify that it is within limits.
- Evaluates test data and refers suspect results to Senior Environmental Laboratory Analyst and/or Laboratory Quality Assurance Coordinator.
- Performs as a backup for all sample control functions in the capacity of Sample Custodian.
- Receives, unpacks, and assigns unique identification to all samples.
- Organizes walk-in cooler to ensure proper identification, retrieval, and storage of samples.
- Assesses and documents suitability of samples for analysis in accordance with sample acceptance policy and records discrepancies.
- Confirms sample preservation using meters and test kits.
- Verifies packing slips, and receives, unpacks, and logs all chemicals and miscellaneous supplies into the LIMS Chemical Inventory Module.
- Prepares sample container kits for clients.
- Disposes of samples in accordance with applicable regulations.
- Stores records in accordance with laboratory document retention plan, under supervision of Laboratory Quality Assurance Coordinator or his/her designee.
- Performs as a backup for laboratory analysis functions described in the laboratory testing specialty.
DECISION MAKING- Works under general supervision. Work is performed in accordance with laboratory standard operating procedures and policies. The incumbent organizes and prioritizes work with periodic checks by team leader (in accordance with workload).
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS- Two years of college with courses in Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or related scientific discipline from an institution accredited by a recognized accrediting agency.
- These must include 16 hours of college science courses with lab requirement.
- Beginner level skills in Microsoft office suite applications or similar computer software.
- Valid Class “C” Texas Driver’s License.
- Ability to report to work on time, maintain a good attendance record, and work all designated work schedules.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS- Two years’ experience in laboratory testing and analysis.
- Basic knowledge of instrumentation, laboratory equipment, and EPA and Standard Methods for the examination of water and wastewater
JOB DIMENSIONS- Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing with internal and external customers, vendors, outside agencies, and regulatory agencies.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and public relations.
- Ability to adhere to the most current practices and requirements of the 2016 TNI standard and any additional program-specific requirements.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS
Physical requirements include lifting and carrying up to 25 pounds occasionally. Requires visual acuity and hand-eye coordination. Working conditions are in a laboratory environment with frequent to constant standing. Frequent exposure to chemicals, waste materials and hazardous materials. Occasional exposure to noxious fumes, vapors, and odors. May drive company and/or personal vehicle occasionally.
May be required to work hours other than regular schedule including weekends and holidays. Infrequent travel may be required.
San Antonio Water System values the contributions of all its employees, providing them the best in compensation and benefits. The benefits package is designed to attract and retain a workforce of qualified employees who share a responsibility in providing quality water to 1 million consumers.
From an affordable medical and dental plan to life-sustaining retirement and insurance plans, we offer benefits that reward employees for their commitment to a challenging career at SAWS. Employee benefits include the following:- Competitive, market-based salaries
- Performance-based incentives
- Medical benefits
- Dental benefits
- Life insurance
- Prescription drug program
- Vision care plan
- Two retirement plans
- Deferred compensation plans (457 plan)
- Disability income
- Paid leave (vacation, sick, personal)
- Education assistance program
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible, tax-deferred health and dependent care spending accounts
- Wellness programs
- On-Site Fitness Facilities
- Community service opportunities
Closing Date/Time: 6/28/2026 11:59 PM Central -
ABOUT THE COMPANY
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San Antonio Water System
Show moreThe San Antonio Water System (SAWS) is a public utility owned by the City of San Antonio. SAWS serves 2 million people in Bexar County as well as parts of Medina and Atascosa counties. The population includes more than 511,300 water customers and 457,600 wastewater customers. SAWS actively seeks out public participation in its operations and planning, while SAWS volunteers strive to help their neighbors in need.
As an industry leader in conservation and water and wastewater management, SAWS provides sustainable, affordable water services. To deliver responsible water services, our investment in our employees – one of our greatest assets – ranks as a top priority.
San Antonio Water System's Board of Trustees has adopted mission, vision and values statements that serve as a foundation to move the utility forward through 2050 and reinforce San Antonio's much-deserved reputation as Waterful.
Our Mission: Sustainable, Affordable Water Services / Our Vision: To be leaders in delivering responsible water services for life. / Our Values: Excellence, Integrity, Respect and Safety.
SAWS is a values-based organization that believes in diversity in all aspects of our business. At SAWS, we attract and retain the finest individuals whose diverse talents drive innovation. We recognize that differences in race, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, nationality, physical ability or any characteristic protected by law, enrich and empower our work environment. We respectfully infuse diversity in our daily work lives with the knowledge that people from a variety of backgrounds and life experiences make connections that make SAWS a success.
SAWS is committed to providing our employees with a healthy, safe, and rewarding work environment where all employees have an equal opportunity for professional and personal growth. SAWS employees go beyond what is expected – developing remarkable, award-winning programs in conservation, water resources, watershed protection and wastewater treatment.
Why Choose a Career at SAWS?
For Your Work-Life Balance: SAWS is proud to invest in its employees by offering a variety of paid time off to help meet the work-life balance goals of you and your family.
For Your Professional Growth: Professional growth is key to both our employees’ success as well as SAWS’. That’s why SAWS offers a number of professional development opportunities that achieve both personal and company goals.
For Your Future: Achieving your personal financial goals is an important part of your life. SAWS makes it easy for employees to save for retirement by providing several retirement plan options.
For Your Health: SAWS offers a range of health, dental and vision benefits, and Wellness Programs to help meet each employee’s needs.
For your Protection: SAWS offers life insurance and disability coverage to meet the need for protection against life’s unexpected events.
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