LABORATORY ANALYST I

Love science? Want a job where what you do actually matters? You’re in the right place.

The Town of Cary is looking for a Lab Analyst I to join the crew at the South Cary Water Reclamation Facility. You’ll be the kind of person who enjoys getting into the details—running tests, analyzing water samples, and making sure everything meets high-quality standards. In short, you’ll be helping keep Cary’s water safe and clean—and that’s a big deal.

This is not your typical government job. At Cary, we like to do things differently: we focus on smart ideas, solid teamwork, and continuous improvement (with some fun along the way). We also offer great pay, excellent benefits, and a built-in career ladder to help you move up and grow your skills.

If you’re curious, science-minded, and like the idea of turning lab work into community impact, we’d love to see your application.

Anticipated hiring range: $55,764-$68,494.  

Work is performed under the regular supervision of the WRF Lab Supervisor.

(Note: This is a generic class specification that applies to laboratory work in both a water reclamation facility and the water treatment plant. Individual duties may vary.)Collects all samples carefully and accurately for daily laboratory analyses adhering to federal and state requirements;

Calibrates all instruments in the lab on a daily basis;

Collects and analyzes samples for bacteria count by standard laboratory methods;

Performs routine state certified analysis adhering to all regulatory requirements;

Analyzes samples daily and on an immediate basis as needed;

Collects and analyzes samples for chemistry parameters by standard laboratory methods;

Enters data into the laboratory computer database;

Maintains records and reports;

Maintains a clean workspace;

Completes all documentation fully and accurately;

Answers the telephone and transfers calls appropriately;

Sets up samples for bacteriological analyses and interprets lab results;

Prepares culture media, solutions and reagents;

Performs cleaning and routine maintenance on lab;

Participates in annual MDL studies;

Maintains MSDS information for the laboratory;

Performs quality control testing;

Prepares sample bottles for chemistry and micro-lab;

Performs safety checks in the lab;

Interprets laboratory tests, documents and prepares required reports;

Maintains an inventory of chemicals, solutions, culture media, required forms, and laboratory equipment and materials;

Notifies supervisor of reagent or equipment needs;

Participates in the annual performance evaluation studies for state certification;

Troubleshoots equipment failures in the lab and repairs equipment if possible;

Consults with pretreatment, operations, and maintenance staff on water quality issues;

Handles inquiries concerning water quality by industrial customers and the public;

Generate email reports as needed;

Provides basic training on new laboratory equipment for non-lab personnel;

Reads and reviews SOPs and MSDS annually;

Maintains CEUs for required certification;

Performs other job-related tasks as required.General knowledge of modern laboratory techniques, materials, and equipment, including those used in standard chemical and biochemical analysis of water or wastewater; general knowledge of the principles of organic and inorganic chemistry; general knowledge of Excel and Office programs, or similar; general knowledge of plant operations; ability to prepare laboratory reagents and assemble laboratory apparatus for chemical and biochemical analysis; ability to take water samples, and perform the necessary laboratory tests; ability to prepare and keep accurate records and prepare reports; ability to understand and carry out oral and written directions; Ability to occasionally work in various environmental conditions such as heat, cold, rain, and unpleasant surroundings; ability to move about freely including climbing stairs and ladders; ability to perform heavy lifting (up to 50 pounds); Visual acuity as necessary to perform precise measurements;  ability to hear, talk, smell and distinguish color.REQUIRES:

High School Diploma or GED and any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from a four-year college or university in chemistry or environmental science and some experience in performing laboratory tests, preferably in a treatment plant laboratory.

Possession of a valid driver's license with a good driving history.

Grade I Wastewater Operator Certification or the ability to achieve certification within 1 year.
 
PREFERS:

Class I Wastewater Laboratory Analyst Certification is preferred.

Wastewater treatment operational experience is preferred along with a willingness to assist with operational shifts.



**Requires drug testing and background check (which may include criminal check, education verification and credit history review) prior to employment.

Salary : $55,765 - $86,445