Job Description

This is very responsible lab work at the full performance level involving the microbiological, chemical or physical analysis of water and/or waste water.

Work involves responsibility for testing and analyzing water and wastewater samples, tabulating reports and coordinating laboratory tasks. Duties include safe testing of water/waste water samples in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations and permits. This position also has the responsibility for making standard testing technical decisions. This work requires that the employee have knowledge, skill, and ability in microbiology and/or chemistry and laboratory methods, principles, and practices.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Performs microbiological and/or chemical testing and analyses with sophisticated instrumentation, utilizing software, and maintaining Quality Control procedures, in accordance with state approved methods.
• Coordinates the sampling and analysis of the water and waste water system. Coordinates routine laboratory tests and maintenance of laboratory supplies and equipment. Analyzes chemical shipments for adherence to required specifications.
• Develops and maintains standard operating procedures, material safety data collection, chemical inventory, and certificates of chemical and microbiological analysis.
• Maintains and calibrates laboratory and other analytic instruments and equipment. orders chemicals and supplies. Manages instrument repair and service contracts.
• Participates in Quality Assurance Program and performs microbiological and chemical proficiency tests for maintenance of state certification.
• Analyzes Method Detection Limit studies for all instrumentation. Analyzes water supply and water pollution proficiency samples for maintenance of laboratory certification. Analyzes samples as required following the Connecticut Department of Health Water Quality Monitoring schedule and EPA and/or Department of Energy and Environmental Protection NPDES Permit
• Tabulates and compiles test data and prepares reports.
• Assist in the administration of the laboratory by coordinating workload, the preparation of the laboratory supply contract and assigning routine tasks as necessary and/or appropriate.
• Performs all laboratory procedures in a safe manner and observes all safety procedures, especially in handling microbiologically hazardous samples and materials.
• Trouble-shoot at operation process areas. Works with plant operators and supervisors in the development and improvement in plant operations.
• Performs related work as required.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Works under the general supervision of the Manager of Water Quality..

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

A bachelor's degree from a recognized college or university in microbiology, chemistry, biology or related field plus five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in laboratory.

Experience with GCMS (P&T and SPME), and GCECD a plus

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Must have a valid driver's license.

As part of the screening process, applicants will be required to take a practical exam. A passing score of 70 on the practical exam is required to be considered for an interview.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of microbiology, chemistry and/or biology and laboratory analytical techniques and physical analysis principles and practices as applied to the analysis of water and wastewater.
• Knowledge of test laboratory principles and practices as applied to water and wastewater treatment.
• Knowledge of computers and associated software and systems including but not limited to LIMS, analytical/reporting tools, manufacturer calibration applications/tools
• Knowledge of wet chemistry, aseptic techniques, and preparation techniques for various media.
• Knowledge of complex instrumentation calibration, operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations and permits.
• Knowledge of standard methods for the examination of water and waste water.
• Knowledge of ecology, environmental science and watershed management.
• Ability in oral and written communications.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers.
• Knowledge of state and federal regulations and guidelines.
• Knowledge of safe laboratory practices.
• Knowledge of related systems and software.
• Ability to conduct chemical and physical analyses of water samples and materials accurately and safely.

ADA COMPLIANCE

Physical Ability Tasks require the ability to exert moderate physical effort that involves lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate weight (under 50 pounds).

Sensory RequirementsSome tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate: (i) visual and/or auditory cues or signals; and/or (ii) odors. Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally and in writing.

Environmental Factors Essential functions are performed primarily in an indoor, shop, laboratory, or office environment with occasional fieldwork that may involve exposure to various weather conditions, atmospheric conditions, hazards, noises, etc.

The Metropolitan District Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Commission will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.