Lab Technician

SUMMARY

This position reports to the Lab Director, Senior Lab Analyst or Lab Regulatory Compliance Specialist. The Lab Technician performs chemical and physical analyses of wastewater samples according to Standard Methods guidelines. The Lab Technician must have the ability to work flexible shifts, including weekends, holidays, and night shifts and overtime, if needed.

RESPONSIBILITIES

§  The collection of grab and composite samples from throughout the wastewater treatment plant as well as from outside customers such as school districts and other treatment facilities.

• Familiar with the treatment processes and maintain good communications with the operations supervisor and staff concerning any abnormal sampling results, analysis, or observations.
• Identification and evaluation of microorganisms associated with wastewater treatment via microscopic examination.
• Working with computer spreadsheets and entering, organizing, and properly documenting samples collected and received for record keeping and billing purposes.
• Calibration and operation of laboratory equipment such as pH meters, DO meters, balances, and spectrometers.
• Organize the testing and analyses of tests such as yearly polymer evaluation and other studies.
• Cleaning and maintaining lab equipment, glassware, and work areas.
• Perform work safely at all times by observing all safety rules and regulations, and by utilizing all available safety equipment.
• Through the routine visits to various clients. promote customer relations and reliability.
• This is a safety sensitive position. A safety sensitive position is a job which includes work duties in which an employee’s performance of the job impacts the safety of themselves or others. The term includes jobs where performing a task poorly or failure to perform it all could result in a safety incident. A person in a safety sensitive position must have the ability to perform a given set of tasks effectively without exception, on an ongoing basis.
• As needed and/or directed, assist the ACUA with its environmental mission and commitment to excellent customer service, to include but not limited to: serve in an advocacy role, help with site tours, attend events and activities that the Authority participates in or sponsors.

§  Remain compliant with all training requirements for this position.  The training requirements for this position are located on InsideACUA in the Employee Resources section (Blue Box) under Training Resources.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

§  Bachelor’s Degree in a related field of science OR 3 years laboratory experience

ESSENTIAL SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES

§  Valid driver’s license in good standing.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint) and other related applications.
• Ability to work shifts flexible shifts, including night shifts, weekends, and holidays and overtime if needed.
• Report to work during weather related conditions and emergencies. 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

§  2 years of college with courses in biology and chemistry preferred.

• Experience working in a lab preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The physical activities described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Essential functions are those functions that the employee who holds the position or the candidate that desires the position must be able to perform unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation. When possible, reasonable accommodations may be made for persons who are disabled under the law.  Reasonable accommodations are those accommodations which, as defined under applicable State and Federal law, enable disabled individuals to perform the essential functions of their job title and to meet the Employer’s expectations for the job title. While performing the functions of this job the employee:

 Constantly communicates, converses and exchanges information with customers, the public and other employees in person, electronically and/or via telephone. Constantly operates computer devices and/or business productivity machinery. Constantly works in a close/small workspace. Frequently moves and positions self at the workspace/desk to be able to engage with and service customers, public, and other employees. Must be able to remain in a stationary position for at least 50% of the time.  Occasionally moves and transports supplies and materials up to 20lbs, and must be able to handle a 5 gallon water bottle. Must be able to be exposed to or work under the following conditions: near moving parts and large machinery, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, work in areas with excessive vibration, load noises and risk of electrical shock. Must have close, distance, color, peripheral and depth vision.  Constantly works in all outdoor weather conditions.