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Employment TypeFull Time
Job SummaryLAB TECHNICIAN - ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE TECHNICIANPAY RANGE: $21.75 to $26.51 depending on experience and qualificationsThe City of Olathe is currently accepting applications for the position of Environmental Compliance Technician. This role is an integral part of our Environmental Lab Team. The laboratory's primary function involves analyzing drinking water and wastewater samples, which is essential to maintaining the health, safety, and well-being of the community we serve. We are seeking a dedicated individual to collect samples and perform field testing in support of our municipal environmental initiatives.
Olathe drinking water consistently meets or exceeds all state and federal standards for safe drinking water. After production and treatment, our certified laboratory staff perform about 60,000 tests to ensure the quality and safety of our drinking water throughout the year.
In a typical day, the Environmental Compliance Technician will:
- Operate a vehicle to collect a variety of environmental water samples within the community
- Conduct field analysis of environmental samples according to the requirements of USEPA and NELAC standards
- Document and record all data and observations
- Calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot field equipment as needed
- Collaborate with other team members and supervisor within the laboratory setting
- Log samples into the LIMS database
- Prepare sample bottles and coolers for sample collection
- Sort and file Fat, Rags, Oil, and Grease (FROG) documents
We’re looking for someone who has:
- Attention to detail with the ability to accurately record and document data
- Ability to adhere to established protocols and standards while collecting standards
- Experience operating and maintaining a wide range of field-testing equipment, including instruments for pH, turbidity, residual chlorine.
- Ability to work collaboratively within a team environment
- Problem solving skills to troubleshoot equipment
- Ability to adapt to changing field conditions and being comfortable working in various outdoor conditions
- Basic understanding of scientific principals and technical concepts related to environmental science, biology, or chemistry.
- Driving skills and the ability to travel to various locations within the community
Why join our team? Our team members enjoy:
- Collaborative culture
- Knowledge sharing and continuous learning
- Personal development opportunities
- Passionate group
- Inclusive atmosphere
The City of Olathe strives to be an inclusive employer. We set the standard for Excellence in Public Service! Our employees are dedicated to the City's core values of Leadership through Service, Teamwork, Customer Service, Learning and Communication. Come see what public service has to offer. Apply today.
For more details, review the full job details and requirements below. The Environmental Compliance Technician works closely with the Distribution Compliance Program Manager, organizing the drop off and pick up of lead and copper sampling kits at designated locations within the City of Olathe including homes, schools, and daycares.This position assists the Environmental Laboratory with routine sampling and analysis of samples from the water distribution system, community pools, Lake Olathe, inspections sites, and water towers in all types of weather. They support the Environmental Compliance Manager by performing administrative tasks related to the City’s Fat, Rags, Oil, and Grease (FROG) Program. Work requires weekend and on-call work, as necessary.
Key Responsibilities - Supports the Distribution Compliance Program with lead and copper sampling requirements; in all weather conditions, participates in sampling performed by Environmental Laboratory staff including water distribution sites, water towers, community center and municipal pools, Lake Olathe, water line disinfection projects, and water customers; analyzes samples in the field for total residual chlorine, pH, temperature, turbidity; analyzes samples in the laboratory for total coliform/E. coli, turbidity, chlorine, pH, TSS, BOD, and COD; learns and follows the requirements of the laboratory quality system. Establishes and maintains acceptable performance on assigned analysis via demonstrations of capability and pr oficiency tests; participates in corrective actions and laboratory improvement initiatives as needed.
- Assists the Environmental Compliance Manager with administrative tasks such as document filing (electronic and paper), scanning, and data entry related to the Fat, Rags, Oil, and Grease (FROG) program; corresponds with regulated community via phone and e-mail when needed.
- Conducts all activities in a safe and deliberate manner; obeys all traffic laws and takes care to not interfere with residential activities; keeps sampling vehicles clean, inside and out; provides a high level of customer service when interacting with the public and other city staff while sampling.
- Supports general laboratory functions by performing ancillary laboratory activities such as bottle preparation, sample receipt, sample disposal, answering phones, data entry and data review.
Qualifications Experience: Experience working in an environmental program performing sampling, analysis, or administrative functions is required.
Education: An associate’s degree with course work in chemistry, biology, or environmental science is required.Water/wastewater operator training courses in laboratory analysis are required.
Licenses & Certifications: A valid driver’s license and favorable driving record are required. A Class I Water or Wastewater Laboratory Analyst Certification is required within 24 months of hire.