Job Description

Important Notice: Arlington County requires all applicants to thoroughly complete each section of the application, including prior job responsibilities, duties, and supplemental questions. While you may attach a resume, it will not replace a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Arlington County's Department of Environmental Services (DES), is seeking a Chemist Technologist to join their team at the Water Pollution Control Bureau (WPCB) to perform technical laboratory testing and wastewater chemical analysis in a Certified Wastewater Laboratory.

The Water Pollution Control Bureau protects public health and the environment by treating wastewater, monitoring water quality, and ensuring compliance with state and federal environmental regulations. Through advanced treatment processes, laboratory services, and environmental stewardship, WPCB helps safeguard the region's water resources and supports a sustainable community.

The selected candidate will join a collaborative laboratory team that supports critical wastewater treatment, environmental monitoring, and regulatory compliance activities for Arlington County's WPCB.

Specific duties include:

• Conducting routine and advanced laboratory analyses on wastewater, industrial, stormwater, and environmental samples to support regulatory compliance and treatment operations;
• Conducting tests in the areas of Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5), Total suspend solids (TSS), Nitrate, Total Phosphorus, Ammonia Nitrogen and Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN);
• Performing chemical and biological analyses on permit and process samples (e.g., E-coli, bacteriology testing) to meet the Virginia Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (VPDES) permit requirements and quality control checks;
• Performing safety checks including inspecting lab safety equipment and first aid kit, and checking safety showers and eye wash stations;
• Preparing chemicals, reagents, and maintaining laboratory inventory;
• Calibrating and maintaining instruments and equipment;
• Reviewing test results for inaccuracies and/or irregularities from the lab and field;
• Preparing and reviewing required logs, test records, operator data reports and other documentation; and
• Participating in internal and external training to learn new techniques and maintain current skills.
  

The ideal candidate is a curious and detail-oriented scientist who enjoys working in a laboratory environment, applying statistical and algebraic techniques, following established analytical methods, and producing accurate, high-quality results. They are motivated by the opportunity to protect public health and the environment through science and thrive in a collaborative team focused on continuous learning and excellence.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, or another directly related science from an accredited college or university; and
• Some experience performing routine and wet chemistry testing in an environmental laboratory and demonstrated ability to successfully perform instrumental analyses employing one of the following: Lachat/Flow Injection Analysis or other designated advanced testing instrument.

Substitution(s): Additional directly related experience may substitute for the bachelor's degree on a year-for-year basis.

Desirable Qualifications: Preference may be given to applicants with experience in one or more of the following:

• Using a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) or comparable electronic laboratory data management system;
• Investigating, interpreting, and applying changes to regulations and requirements related to wastewater analysis; and
• Proficiency using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
  

Special Requirements

• Background Check A pre-employment criminal records check will be conducted. It will include checks of the following: criminal record, driving record, education, professional licensure, and credit history. You will be required to sign a release authorizing the County to obtain your background information.
• Driver's License Applicant must possess, or obtain by time of appointment, a valid driver’s license, and must provide or authorize Arlington County to obtain a copy of official driving record. Any offer of employment may be contingent upon favorable review of the applicant’s driving record. Alternatively, the applicant must have the ability and willingness to use alternative methods of transportation to perform assigned duties and responsibilities at locations other than the primary worksite.
• Resume Requirement A complete application includes a resume. Please attach your resume to the application and verify that the details of your application provide further evidence of your experience and qualifications as displayed on your resume.
• Please complete each section of the application including the supplemental questions. Your responses to the supplemental questions are required because they provide us with specific information necessary to evaluate your qualifications for this position. These responses are considered part of the selection process. A resume may be attached; however, it will not substitute for a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please do not write "see resume" as a response to the questions. In accordance with § 19.2-392.15, applicants are not required to provide information regarding sealed arrests, charges, or convictions in response to any questions or inquiries during the hiring process.
• Working Conditions: This position may be exposed to hazardous and caustic chemicals and microbiological matter on a regular basis where proper PPE is required.
• Physical Requirements: Medium Work, exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
• Additional external licensure and/or certifications may be required based on assignment.
  

Additional Information

Work hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, or within operating hours as approved by the supervisor. This position is classified as essential, and employee may be required to work weekend or holiday hours.

This position is eligible for County government employee benefits that include health, dental, vacation and sick leave, commuter transportation subsidies, tuition reimbursement, as well as a generous retirement plan.

For more information on Arlington County’s generous benefits and retirement plan, click here

Arlington County is committed to advancing diversity, equity, access, and inclusion across all our services, activities, and programs. Learn more about our commitment.

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