What are the responsibilities and job description for the Chemist- Clinton River position at Oakland County, Michigan Government?
Overview & Benefits
Oakland County is more than just a workplace. It is a place where you can make a real difference. As one of Michigan’s leading public service organizations, we are committed to strengthening communities, delivering essential services, and improving the quality of life for nearly 1.3 million residents.
When you join our team, you become part of a mission-driven workforce guided by integrity, innovation, and a passion for public service. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to do meaningful work that matters. Apply today and help shape the future of Oakland County, where we are All Ways Moving Forward.
For more information about Oakland County benefits and employee perks, please visit:
https://www.oakgov.com/government/human-resources/benefits/new-hire
General Summary
$59,440-$77,380
Do you enjoy working in a laboratory environment while helping protect public health and the environment? This role offers the opportunity to apply scientific knowledge to real-world water quality testing, ensuring safe and compliant water systems across the County.
What You’ll Do
EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Required Minimum Qualifications
Possess a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university with a major in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Bacteriology, Biology, or other closely related field.
Have at least one (1) year of full‑time work experience involving analysis of chemical and biological material.
Possess a valid United States motor vehicle operator’s or chauffeur’s license. Out of Country driver’s license holders will be required to obtain the appropriate valid State of Michigan driver’s license before the hire date.
Pass the complete examination including the employment medical established for this classification.
Successfully complete the six month probationary period.
Essential Job Functions
Performs the analysis of wastewater, storm water, and drinking water samples for many chemical or biological parameters. Examples include biochemical oxygen demand, fecal coliform and dissolved oxygen by using titration, probe, atomic absorption or other approved methods.
Collects and provides direction in correct collection procedures for samples from industrial locations, sewage treatment plants, lakes, rivers and/or streams and transports samples to central laboratory facility for analysis.
Maintains records of water quality and quantity for preparing monthly reports for the State Department of Natural Resources and the Federal Environmental Protection Agency.
Instructs Laboratory Technicians, Plant Operators and/or other subordinate laboratory personnel in proper methods of taking and analyzing samples for solid and chemical content.
Responsible for adherence to County policies, procedures and work instructions. Follows MIOSHA Laboratory Hygiene & Safety procedure & policies.
Utilizes current Countywide and/or department specific software to complete assignments.
Additional Duties & Responsibilities
Oversees lab supplies, instruments and equipment as needed. Calibrates and adjusts lab equipment, and formulates reagents as needed.
Essential Mental & Physical Requirements
Ability to communicate to accurately convey information.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is performed in a typical laboratory environment, with some exposure to construction sites and weather conditions.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The primary purpose of this job description is to set a fair and equitable salary range for this job classification. Generally, only those key duties necessary for proper job evaluation and/or labor market analysis have been included. Other duties and responsibilities will be assigned by the supervisor.
Additional Minimum Qualifications
Union*
BU55 - International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers: Water Resources Commission (IBEW)
We are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances.
Inclusion Statement
Oakland County is committed to welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, including those with prior convictions, as we believe in providing equal opportunities for all. We value the unique perspectives and experiences each individual brings to our team and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace. If you have the skills and qualifications for the position, we encourage you to apply. All candidates are evaluated based on their ability to meet the job requirements, legal obligations and thrive in our organization. All ways, MOVING FORWARD.
Oakland County is more than just a workplace. It is a place where you can make a real difference. As one of Michigan’s leading public service organizations, we are committed to strengthening communities, delivering essential services, and improving the quality of life for nearly 1.3 million residents.
When you join our team, you become part of a mission-driven workforce guided by integrity, innovation, and a passion for public service. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to do meaningful work that matters. Apply today and help shape the future of Oakland County, where we are All Ways Moving Forward.
For more information about Oakland County benefits and employee perks, please visit:
https://www.oakgov.com/government/human-resources/benefits/new-hire
General Summary
$59,440-$77,380
Do you enjoy working in a laboratory environment while helping protect public health and the environment? This role offers the opportunity to apply scientific knowledge to real-world water quality testing, ensuring safe and compliant water systems across the County.
What You’ll Do
- Perform and analyze chemical tests on wastewater, storm water, and drinking water samples from domestic and industrial systems
- Evaluate samples from sewer systems, storm drainage systems, and potable water systems to ensure regulatory compliance
- Assist in the creation of detailed reports for federal and state monitoring agencies
- Instruct and support operators in proper field testing and sampling techniques
- Follow EPA-approved methods for all laboratory analyses to ensure accuracy and compliance
- Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure a safe, clean, and properly functioning work environment
- Respond to operational issues and support emergency situations as needed
- Meaningful work that directly impacts environmental safety and public health
- Hands-on laboratory experience using industry-standard testing methods
- Opportunities to collaborate with field operators and environmental professionals
- A role that blends science, compliance, and real-world application
EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Required Minimum Qualifications
Possess a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university with a major in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Bacteriology, Biology, or other closely related field.
Have at least one (1) year of full‑time work experience involving analysis of chemical and biological material.
Possess a valid United States motor vehicle operator’s or chauffeur’s license. Out of Country driver’s license holders will be required to obtain the appropriate valid State of Michigan driver’s license before the hire date.
Pass the complete examination including the employment medical established for this classification.
Successfully complete the six month probationary period.
Essential Job Functions
Performs the analysis of wastewater, storm water, and drinking water samples for many chemical or biological parameters. Examples include biochemical oxygen demand, fecal coliform and dissolved oxygen by using titration, probe, atomic absorption or other approved methods.
Collects and provides direction in correct collection procedures for samples from industrial locations, sewage treatment plants, lakes, rivers and/or streams and transports samples to central laboratory facility for analysis.
Maintains records of water quality and quantity for preparing monthly reports for the State Department of Natural Resources and the Federal Environmental Protection Agency.
Instructs Laboratory Technicians, Plant Operators and/or other subordinate laboratory personnel in proper methods of taking and analyzing samples for solid and chemical content.
Responsible for adherence to County policies, procedures and work instructions. Follows MIOSHA Laboratory Hygiene & Safety procedure & policies.
Utilizes current Countywide and/or department specific software to complete assignments.
Additional Duties & Responsibilities
Oversees lab supplies, instruments and equipment as needed. Calibrates and adjusts lab equipment, and formulates reagents as needed.
Essential Mental & Physical Requirements
Ability to communicate to accurately convey information.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is performed in a typical laboratory environment, with some exposure to construction sites and weather conditions.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The primary purpose of this job description is to set a fair and equitable salary range for this job classification. Generally, only those key duties necessary for proper job evaluation and/or labor market analysis have been included. Other duties and responsibilities will be assigned by the supervisor.
Additional Minimum Qualifications
Union*
BU55 - International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers: Water Resources Commission (IBEW)
- If applicable
We are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances.
Inclusion Statement
Oakland County is committed to welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, including those with prior convictions, as we believe in providing equal opportunities for all. We value the unique perspectives and experiences each individual brings to our team and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace. If you have the skills and qualifications for the position, we encourage you to apply. All candidates are evaluated based on their ability to meet the job requirements, legal obligations and thrive in our organization. All ways, MOVING FORWARD.
Salary : $59,440 - $77,380