Lab Technician I

Under supervision, assists with the daily operation of the Water and Wastewater lab for the City of Midland. This responsibility includes performing regular physical, bacteriological, instrumental, and chemical analyses of various water and wastewater samples. Duties also include data entry for processing and maintaining records of all analyses performed. Performs other related work as required.

• Assists with analyzing the required water and wastewater sample analysis to provide professional and timely customer service.             
• Assists in monitoring the laboratory supply inventory and completes a purchasing request form for approval for supplies and equipment as needed. 
• Assists in ordering all required chemicals and equipment as needed and works closely with vendors and Lead Laboratory Technician.
• Assists with collecting, analyzing, and interpreting the results from environmental, water, and wastewater samples.
• Assists the laboratory in maintaining records for regulatory compliance.  
• Keeps current with regulations and professional developments in the field.  
• Assists staff in resolving analytical and sampling issues.
• Assists in keeping records of instrument operation and sampling work performed.
• Enters test results in the computer database and logbooks.
• Maintains complete and accurate records for compliance with regulatory requirements. 
• Documents all calibrations and maintenance activities in the instrument logbooks.
• Assists in calibrating and maintaining laboratory equipment, tools, and instruments.
• Acts as sample-receiving custodian to support the daily laboratory operations as needed.
• Assists in requesting quotes and invoices for both laboratories.
• Assists with inventory and placing orders.
• Performs other related duties as required. These include clerical duties.
• Willing to work on weekends, rotating holidays, and on-call, as needed. 

Ability to sit, stand, and transport self from building to building.   Must be able to drive a vehicle to and from various work sites.   Employees will work in seasonal temperatures, bending, lifting, kneeling, twisting, and climbing to collect samples and make inspections.  Employees can work with potential mechanical, chemical, and electrical hazards while collecting and analyzing samples.  Employees may be exposed to loud noises, chemicals, toxic fumes, air and waterborne pathogens, and mechanical equipment during the collection and analysis of samples and mixing chemicals, with the ability to detect problems.  Must be able to lift in excess of 20 lbs.

• Knowledge of basic microbiology and chemistry methods, practices, and procedures.
• Knowledge of laboratory equipment, methods, measurements, and practices.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations, procedures, and mixing chemicals.
• Skill in utilizing health and safety precautions in collecting and analyzing samples.
• Skill in safely performing laboratory testing, conversions, etc.
• Skill in accurately performing and recording basic math calculations and data.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted during work, including the public.
• Must possess knowledge of computer software and applications.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain the required TCEQ and LAS licenses during its tenure with the City of Midland.
• Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry, Biology, or related field is preferred. 
• High school diploma or equivalent. Associate’s degree in Science is preferred.
• Knowledge of and college credit hours in microbiology, biology, and chemistry preferred.
• Previous experience with collecting, testing, and analyzing samples is preferred.
• Class D water operator license in the State of Texas preferred or must be obtained within 1 year of employment. Class C water operator license in the State of Texas is preferred or must be obtained within five years of employment.

Salary : $47,775