Environmental Field Sampler I

Spotsylvania County is committed to maintaining a drug free workplace. Employees are prohibited from manufacturing, distributing, possessing or using controlled substances such as marijuana. A positive drug test result, confirmed use or impairment can be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination in accordance with our personnel policies.

A positive pre-employment drug test will also disqualify a candidate for hire.

General Statement of Job

Under limited supervision, confidently and efficiently performs routine and emergency environmental sampling throughout Spotsylvania County. Performs technical work in collecting bacteriological drinking water samples and conducting analyses in the field and the laboratory to ensure water quality and compliance with regulatory requirements. Performs complex sample collections from the entry points, distribution system and small groundwater systems throughout the County. Employee is responsible for routine equipment maintenance, maintaining test results and records, and ensuring vehicle is properly maintained. Employee is responsible for responding to water quality complaints and communicating analytical results to the public. Employee must also exercise considerable tact and courtesy due to the frequent contact with utilities customers and the general public.

This position is essential. Personnel occupying this position may be scheduled to work regardless of weather conditions and/or when general County offices are closed. Applicants must be available to work Sunday through Saturday as needed.

Special Duties & Responsibilities

• Collects drinking water samples for compliance or special projects as needed. Collects non-routine water samples from hydrants, distribution sites, tanks and other collection sites as needed. Collections may be routine or emergency.
• Collects samples for monthly bacteriological monitoring, Lead and Copper, TTHMs/HAA5s, UCMR, PFAS, etc.
• Travels throughout Spotsylvania County to collect and transport samples timely. At times, delivery or pick up of samples/containers may require travel to other counties.
• Effectively reads maps, utilizes GPS, and creates efficient sampling routes.
• Communicate field results and laboratory results effectively with the public in regards to complex testing.
• Performs water testing at sample sites to include, but not limited to: Total Residual Chlorine, Free Chlorine, Mono-Chloramines, pH, Free Ammonia, Fluoride, Temperature, Conductivity, Nitrites, etc.
• Uses basic microscopy skills to identify and enumerate microorganisms.
• Monitors and accounts for hazards using necessary personal protection equipment and safety protocols. Maintains a safe work environment.
• Identifies acceptable sample locations and taps that meet regulatory requirements.
• Evaluates data gathered while monitoring the distribution system and notifies accordingly if results are unusual or unexpected.
• Responds to customer inquiries and concerns. Communicates the water quality results to management and/or customer. Communicates confidently, accurately, and appropriately with customers.
• Communicates and coordinates sampling with field crew staff, contractors, and inspectors for flushing, water main break collections, new lines, etc.
• Enters, updates, and completes work orders in Cityworks software.
• Prepares coolers for various sample collections, samples with various preservatives, and completes appropriate chain of custody forms and sample container labels accurately.
• Routinely collects samples from water meters, sample stations, hydrants, water towers, etc.
• Calibrates, performs general maintenance, and troubleshoots both field equipment and laboratory equipment (i.e. pH meters, HACH meters, incubators, sample refrigerators, water baths, etc.)
• Assists laboratory with sample preparation and clean-up as needed. Assist with sample receiving and disposal per laboratory protocol.
• Maintain Safety Data Sheets and Certificates of Analysis for all chemicals used in field testing.
• Assists with editing and maintaining field SOPs. Responsible for reading, understanding and following SOPs.
• Performs custodial duties within the laboratory and vehicles. Cleaning and acid washing glassware and other equipment required for sampling and laboratory operations.
• Maintains and restocks chemical supplies and equipment in vehicle.
• Independently troubleshoots QA/QC issues associated with methods and instrumentation within their scope. Conducts quality control checks on field equipment as required.
• Enters and retrieves data into/from databases such as Excel, Cityworks, and LIMS. Must be proficient with Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Cityworks, and LIMS.
• Communicates clearly in writing and in person using scientific language, appropriate notations and SOP defined shorthand.
• Notifies management if the initiation of a corrective action plan is necessary.
• Maintains Spotsylvania County vehicle to include safety checks.
• Maintains sampling and analytical records so they are accurate, legible, and on time.
• Performs other related duties as required.
  
  

Minimum Training & Experience

Associates Degree preferred; and one (1) to two (2) years of experience in environmental sampling and/or microbiological laboratory analyses; or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities.

Possession of a valid driver’s license issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Must obtain and maintain First Aid and CPR certifications.

Benefits

The following programs offered by Spotsylvania County provide our employees with benefits that promote employee health, well-being and financial stability, now and in the future. The County's variety of comprehensive and competitive benefit programs* include:

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

Life Insurance

Opt-Out Program

Paid Holidays

Paid Leave

Sick Leave Bank

Supplemental Insurance Plans

Tuition Assistance Program

Retirement Plan

Deferred Compensation - 457 Plans

• Some benefits are exclusive to full-time employees. To learn more, please contact the Department of Human Resources.