Laboratory Analyst

Position Information

This recruitment if to fill one vacancy at the Chico Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Under direction, performs a variety of journey level laboratory analyses in the City's wastewater treatment plant laboratory; supports wastewater treatment plant operations; assists in maintaining accreditation with the Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (ELAP); inputs, evaluates, and maintains a variety of data and information; and performs related duties as assigned.

This journey level classification is responsible for independently performing technical and analytical duties in the City’s wastewater treatment laboratory. Positions at this level exercise judgment and initiative in their assigned tasks, receive occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise, and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.

Job Description

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

• Performs a variety of laboratory tests and analyses using certified and non-certified test methods including chemical and biological tests on a variety of industrial and domestic wastewater samples; assists in fulfilling sample events and activities.
• Maintains and applies quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) requirements outlined in the Standard Methods, TNI, and the Quality Management Plan; applies quality management system statistics and analysis of laboratory generated data.
• Creates and supports the laboratory generated documentation and recording, including quality data, corrective actions, test records, and calibrations.
• Designs documents and records, as assigned; inputs, audits, and evaluates data and maintains databases through a variety of software applications.
• Provides technical and analytical assistance to plant operation and industrial waste program personnel; conducts field sampling and keeps written records of observations.
• Prepares and maintains laboratory supplies, materials, instruments, and equipment; operates and maintains laboratory and sampling equipment; prepares standard solutions, reagents, and materials for each type of test.
• Assists in and implements laboratory upkeep and cleanliness efforts; applies laboratory safety standards including hazardous waste storage and discharge; assists with chemical hygiene.
• Observes and complies with all City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications


Knowledge of:

• Modern laboratory techniques and procedures as related to the analysis and examination of wastewater samples.
• The care, maintenance, operation, and calibration of a variety of laboratory equipment and apparatus.
• Requirements set forth in the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit program and the Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (ELAP).
• Applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations.
• The National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Management System (NELAC) Institute’s Transnational Institute (TNI) standard.
• Methods and techniques of research and statistical analysis.
• Proper sampling and preservation techniques for environmental sampling.
• Methods and processes of wastewater treatment.
• Principles and procedures of recordkeeping, document processing, and filing systems.
• Mathematical principles and statistical techniques.
• City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
• 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, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
• Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.

Ability to:

• Analyze samples according to Standard Methods and follow established Quality Assurance and Quality Control protocols.
• Understand and conduct testing for wastewater treatment projects to optimize plant efficiency.
• Perform routine and complex laboratory tests and analysis.
• Perform test methods and principles in microbiology and wet chemistry and interpret results.
• Interpret and apply federal, state, and local policies, procedures, laws, and regulations.
• Analyze problems within the scope of laboratory testing; research and identify solutions, initiate corrective action and implement Laboratory Manager recommendations.
• Understand and apply statistical methods.
• Maintain and update accurate records and files.
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, and procedural, guidelines.
• Independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.
• Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, 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.
• 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:

Education:

• Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in chemistry, microbiology, biology, or a related field.

Experience:

• Two (2) years of experience conducting chemical or biological analyses including one (1) year of experience performing wastewater plant laboratory analyses.

Licenses and Certifications:

• Possession of a valid California Driver's License, to be maintained throughout employment.
• Possession of a valid Grade I Laboratory Analyst Certification issued by the California Water Environment Association (CWEA) or similar agency, to be maintained throughout employment.

Additional Information

Physical Demands:
Must possess mobility to work in a laboratory and standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer, as well as a diverse range of laboratory equipment; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen, and to operate a motor vehicle and visit various City sites; smell to detect chemicals, and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone. This is primarily a laboratory focused classification with frequent standing, sitting, and walking between work areas. Finger dexterity is needed to open and close sample bottles and operate pipettes, and to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator, and to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this classification bend, stoop, climb to access materials, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects with an average weight of up to 30 pounds, or heavier weights, in all cases with the use of proper equipment and/or assistance from staff.

Environmental Conditions:
Employees work primarily in a laboratory environment with moderate to excessive noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and exposure to dust, fumes, and/or allergens, hazardous chemicals, biologic/infectious agents, and unpleasant odors. Employees also work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.

The City of Chico offers a wide range of employee benefits. Benefits are subject to negotiations with employee organizations and may vary with individual bargaining units. For a summary of benefits, please visit the City of Chico website at: City of Chico - Employee Benefits

Closing Date/Time: 4/15/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

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• City of Chico

• 530-879-7905

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