What are the responsibilities and job description for the Laboratory Technician position at PARKER WATER & SANITATION DISTRICT?
General Statement of Duties
This non-exempt position performs a variety of procedures to include routine sampling of aqueous and semi-aqueous samples associated with the operation of water, wastewater, and distribution systems and basic analyses to ensure compliance with State and EPA regulations.
Supervision Received
Works under the direct supervision of the Laboratory Manager and the general direction of the Director of Operations.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
Laboratory Technician I
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Performs sampling of the Distribution System in accordance with Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) Drinking Water Compliance Monitoring Schedule.
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Performs sampling of Water Reclamation facilities and in the collection system in accordance with National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) compliance monitoring.
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Performs sampling of Source Water (Reservoirs) and Surface Waters (creeks) to maintain compliance with State and EPA regulations and to meet process control needs.
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Performs sampling as instructed using appropriate motor vehicle necessary to retrieve samples from various locations to include:
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RH Water Purification Facility, Wastewater Plants (2), Distribution System, Collection System, Reservoirs (2), Surface Water (creeks), Residential Homes, and Raw Water (Well System)
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Utilizes field sheets to record data and maintain Chain of Custody during sample collection.
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Records sampling data into a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
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Prepares sample for analysis to include filtration and preservation.
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Disseminates sampling and testing information to Laboratory staff.
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Maintains field instrumentation, performs regular preventative maintenance and calibration checks.
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Performs routine physical cleanup and housekeeping of work areas, equipment, vehicles, and buildings using standard cleaning equipment.
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Performs analysis using bench-top chemistry that may include:
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Alkalinity, Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Chloride, Conductivity, pH, Sulfate, Temperature, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Total Solids (%TS), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), Turbidity, and UV-254
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Other basic analyses included on an as needed basis.
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Attends technical and safety training meetings, courses and seminars as required.
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Completes other duties as assigned
Laboratory Technician II
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All Primary Duties and Responsibilities listed for the Laboratory Technician I.
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Performs analysis using bench-top chemistry that may include:
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E. Coli (P/A), Ortho-Phosphorus, Total Coliform (P/A), Total and Fecal Coliform (Quantitray), and Total Phosphorus
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Works directly with Laboratory Technician III to support source water profiler program.
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Works directly with Laboratory Technician III and Laboratory Manager to schedule, adjust, maintain, and evaluate the Parker Water and Sanitation District sampling schedule to ensure compliance.
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Responsible for completing state compliance reporting forms for sample collection, field parameters, and required lab analysis.
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Works directly with Laboratory Analysts to develop, document, report and present compliance reports related to State and Federal monitoring requirements, Consumer Confidence Reporting (CCR), Source Water planning, Water Quality assessments for process control and Intergovernmental Agreements (IGA).
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Receives and stores chemicals in appropriate location per the SDS and follows safety and operating procedures. Orders supplies, schedules, and ships samples.
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Sourcing and purchasing of various laboratory supplies.
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Attends technical and safety training meetings, courses and seminars as required.
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Completes other duties as assigned
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
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Basic computer knowledge including, but not limited to Microsoft Office Suite and Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
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Intermediate knowledge of Math to include statistics, significant figures, scientific rounding, and equations.
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Basic knowledge of Biology and Chemistry.
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Basic knowledge of safety procedures and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and ability to apply safety principles to all job tasks. Ability to anticipate unsafe circumstances; act accordingly to prevent accidents, and promptly report accidents and hazardous conditions.
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Ability to operate various motor vehicles including trucks, off-road vehicles, and small boats if necessary to retrieve samples. Ability to transport/off load small boat for reservoir sampling.
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Ability to learn instrumentation such as a spectrophotometer and turbidimeter used in bench top chemistry.
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Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing, organize activities to complete tasks in accordance with priorities, address multiple demands and meet deadlines.
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Ability to work independently with broad direction and limited supervision. Ability to work effectively with supervisors and co-workers and deal tactfully with the public.
Qualifications / Experience
Laboratory Technician I: 0-2 years of experience.
Laboratory Technician II: 2-5 years of experience.
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Previous experience or education in water and wastewater sampling and basic lab testing desirable. Additional education focused on Natural Sciences or Chemistry may be required depending upon current education and experience levels.
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Previous trailer towing experience desirable.
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Must have a valid driver's license and a Motor Vehicle Record within an Acceptable or no less than Borderline Rating according to the Vehicle Policy.
Working Conditions / Physical Activities
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Five days/week (M-F). May consider a flexible schedule (4/10 or 9/80) based on Laboratory needs and scheduling with approval from Laboratory Manager.
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May be subject to mandatory overtime on an as needed basis to work within the department and for other duties as assigned.
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Performs strenuous physical labor and frequently stands for extended periods of time.
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Works in water and wastewater plants where elevated levels of noise, irritants, dust, dirt, bacteria, hazardous chemicals/air/materials, and fumes are present. Reservoir samples are retrieved from a small boat and access to creek sampling is unpaved.
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May come into contact with raw wastewater. The Hepatitis B vaccine is strongly recommended and is offered at no cost by the District.
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Work may take place outside in all weather conditions. May be exposed to risks typically associated with working around water, chemicals, electricity, and other man-made and natural hazards.
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Lifting and handling objects up to 50 pounds occasionally and/or up to 20 pounds frequently.
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Full range of body movements including stooping, twisting, kneeling, bending, leaning, reaching, climbing (heights), stretching, and working in awkward positions. Hand/foot coordination to collect samples.
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Must be able to operate vehicles and equipment, read, record, and interpret information. Must be able to communicate with other employees and the public.
The hiring range for this position is $27.46-$34.88 per hour. Actual compensation will be dependent upon experience and education.
Laboratory Technician I: $27.46-$32.30 per hour
Laboratory Technician II: $29.65-$34.88 per hour
Parker Water & Sanitation offers a robust benefits program for full-time employees including:
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Low-cost health premiums
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100% District paid dental and vision insurance
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District HSA contribution for those on our HDHP insurance
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Social Security Replacement program – 401(a)
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457 (b) retirement plan with District match up to 5%, fully vested right away
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100% District paid Short- and Long-Term Disability
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100% District paid Life and Disability Insurance (2x annual salary)
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Four weeks paid Parental Leave
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Tuition Reimbursement up to $5250 per year
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Employee Wellness program
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Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness eligible employer
For a more in-depth overview of the many benefits PWSD offers please visit www.pwsd.org/careers and click on the Total Rewards Program link.
Salary : $27 - $35