Water Quality Laboratory Technician

DEFINITION
          To prepare equipment and materials for laboratory tests; to safely perform a variety of chemical, biological, and bacteriological analyses; to perform laboratory cleaning and sterilization duties; and to collect samples
 
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS 
          This job class functions at a journey level of classification and is responsible for performing a wide variety of technical laboratory analyses and duties.
 
SUPERVISION RECEIVED 

• Receives general supervision from the Water Quality Chemist and the Laboratory Manager.

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Performs a variety of laboratory chemical, biological, and bacteriological analyses to determine compliance with state and federal regulatory agencies and for plant process control
• Performs chemical and bacteriological analyses for the Water Division
• Performs qualitative and quantitative analyses of drinking water, groundwater, wastewater, and sludge samples
• Maintains detailed records of laboratory tests and prepares related reports as assigned
• Uses a keyboard
• Performs quality assurance tests
• Collects samples and maintains sampling equipment
• Trains plant personnel in safe and proper laboratory methods and practices
• Requisitions laboratory supplies
• Prepares chemical reagents, lab supplies, and glassware for use in analyses
• Maintains the laboratory in a clean, neat, orderly condition
• Performs related duties similar to the above in scope and function as required

 
EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS 
Knowledge of:

• principles and methods of chemical, biological, and bacteriological tests commonly performed for water/wastewater analyses
• laboratory safety and equipment care and maintenance
• chemicals and equipment used in water quality analyses
• chemical, physical, and bacteriological characteristics of influents, effluents, and drainage waters

 
Ability to:
 

• perform a variety of laboratory tests involving the chemical, physical, and biological analyses of water and sludge
• operate, maintain, and calibrate analytical instruments and equipment
• gather appropriate samples for testing and analysis
• interpret laboratory data
• prepare testing media and reagents
• keep accurate and legible records and prepare clear concise reports
• use a keyboard
• bend, stoop, and squat to gather samples
• use fine hand manipulation
• intermittently twist to reach equipment surrounding work area and to gather samples
• distinguish colors of certain fluids
• hear adequately to converse on a telephone and in person
• work indoors, using near vision for prolonged periods
• work outside, walking on uneven ground
• work with chemical, influent, bacteria, and landfill gas
• drive an automobile
• climb stairs
• effectively and tactfully communicate in both oral and written forms
• establish and maintain effective work relationships with those contacted in the performance of required duties

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE 
Any combination of training and experience which would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
 

• Education:  College course work in chemistry, biology, and biochemistry or a closely related science
• Experience:  One year working experience in performing chemical laboratory assistance assignments

LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION 

• A valid Class C California Driver’s license including a safe driving record
• Grade I Laboratory Analyst Certificate issued by the California Water Environment Association or equivalent

The candidate will be appointed for a 12-month probationary period. Names of successful candidates who do not receive a job offer will be placed on an employment list which normally remains effective for one year. The Human Resources Department may abolish an Employment list at any time the needs of the City so require. This position is represented by the Operating Engineers Local Union No.3  bargaining group.

Prior to appointment to the position of Water Quality Laboratory Technician, a medical examination and Department of Justice Livescan fingerprinting will be required.

The City of Watsonville is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages workplace diversity. The City of Watsonville is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act by including people with disabilities in all of its programs and activities.

NOTE: THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A CONTRACT, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AND ANY PROVISIONS CONTAINED IN THIS BULLETIN MAY BE MODIFIED OR REVISED WITHOUT NOTICE.

Salary : $79,040 - $105,914