The Laboratory Scientist position is devoted to providing technical and professional sample collection and laboratory and field analysis of water and wastewater. Incumbents provide professional journey-level scientific laboratory work in a field of specialization. Work may include performing quantitative and qualitative scientific chemical and bacteriological laboratory analyses that comply with EPA and State of North Caroline water and wastewater regulations. Work includes preparing samples for analysis; interpreting data and preparing reports; utilizing specialized equipment for analysis; maintaining laboratory inventory and performing routine laboratory maintenance tasks.

• Perform advanced sample testing and technical analysis of water and wastewater using various detection methods including- gas chromatography, ion chromatography, flow injection, and/or ion coupled plasma mass spectroscopy.
• Analysis preformed include but not limited to: Biochemical Oxygen Demand, Fecal Coliform Analysis, Total Cyanide, Total Phosphorous, Mercury Analysis, and Metals. This position will primarily be analyzing Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen, Ammonia Analysis, and Ion Chromatography.
• Monitor, prioritize, and prepare samples for analysis. 
• Monitor and maintain quality assurance and quality control related to laboratory function. 
• Receive field samples from all customers including but not limited to industries, biological treatment plants, reuse, and environmental monitoring; ensure proper sample collection and preservation. 
• Prepare samples for analysis; prepare reagents; determine sample dilutions. 
• Review and interpret analytical data generated from analysis and enter analytical results in the laboratory information management system (LIMS)
• Determine if data meets quality control criteria. 
• Identifies/reports/communicates data issues, discrepancies, or equipment issues to Senior Laboratory Scientist and/or vendor to determine a corrective plan of action
• Collaborate with other stakeholders to review and validate results and criteria
• Respond to customer inquiries and complaints(internal/external). 
• Attend training events related to assigned section to stay current in the field. 
• Prepare data summaries, reports, and other related documentation as requested by management or regulatory agencies. 
• Monitor and maintain chemical inventory and equipment by maintaining preventive maintenance programs outlined by manufacture. 
• Ensures proper handling of glassware. 
• Develop, annually review/update laboratory standard operating procedures of assigned analysis.
• Perform routine maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Organize/order laboratory supplies required for analysis including chemicals and consumables. 
• Ensure safety procedures are followed and maintained. Communicate any safety concerns with laboratory scientist supervisor.
• Perform other duties of a similar nature and level as assigned.

Education and Experience
Bachelor's Degree in chemistry, biology, microbiology or directly related field and two years of professional, journey-level laboratory sampling, testing and analysis experience in assigned area.
OR
An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above, unless otherwise subject to any other requirements set forth in law or regulation.
Preferred Qualifications

• Valid North Carolina Class C Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record, or the ability to obtain within 30 days.

Knowledge of:

• Principles and practices of program administration and management.
• Principles and practices of laboratory testing and analysis.
• Practices and methods of laboratory sampling.
• Quality assurance and control methods.
• Principles and methods of qualitative and quantitative research.
• Principles and applications of critical thinking and analysis.
• Best practices, trends and emerging technologies.
• Modern budget practices.
• Project management principles.
• Applicable federal, state and local laws, codes, regulations (based on assignment).
• Customer service principles.
• Specialized equipment relevant to area of assignment.
• Modern office technology.

Skill In:

• Managing a project or program.
• Researching industry trends, solutions and best practices.
• Gathering data, analyzing findings and applying logic and reason.
• Interpreting, evaluating and reporting laboratory testing results.
• Ensuring compliance with quality control procedures and quality assurance methods.
• Compiling and sorting data and articulating issues and recommendations.
• Coordinating deadlines and prioritizing competing demands.
• Providing direction to others in order to meet standards.
• Authoring and preparing original reports, documents and presentations.
• Maintaining data and administering reporting systems.
• Monitoring project schedules, status and compliance.
• Interpreting and applying applicable laws, codes, regulations and standards (based on assignment).
• Providing customer service.
• Utilizing a computer and relevant software applications.
• Utilizing communication and interpersonal skills as applied to interaction with coworkers, supervisors, the general public and others to sufficiently exchange or convey information and to receive work direction.

ADA and Other Requirements:
Positions in this class typically require: standing, walking, fingering, talking, hearing, seeing and repetitive motions.
Light Work:
Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. If the use of arm and/or leg controls requires exertion of forces greater than that for Sedentary Work, and the worker sits most of the time, the job is rated for Light work.
Working Conditions:
Work is routinely performed in an indoor, office environment.
Note:
This job classification description is intended to be generic in nature. It is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The essential duties, functions and responsibilities and Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) designation may vary based on the specific tasks assigned to the position.