Job Description

The W/R Laboratory Analyst is responsible for monitoring water quality standards of municipal water/wastewater operations to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local water/wastewater requirements for the City of Fayetteville, Cumberland County, and surrounding areas. This involves performing advanced chemical, biological, and microbiological sampling, testing, and analysis in an environmental laboratory certified by the State of NC. Responsibilities include performing, analyzing, and interpreting a variety of laboratory water/wastewater tests; preparing and maintaining auditable documentation, chain-of-custody, and EPA logs; performing quality assurance/quality control programs on equipment and supplies; identifying potential issues and initiating responsive actions to mitigate environmental violations; performing certified parameter analysis according to Standard Operating Procedures; evaluating and interpreting data subject to random test sampling by the State of NC; performing auditable mathematical/statistical calculations; interpreting and following established guidelines for quality control/assurance techniques; entering data into laboratory LIMS and state LDS systems; maintaining acceptable quality assurance programs; using approved methodology and satisfactory performance on evaluation samples; ensuring all parameters are evaluated annually using unknown proficiency testing samples; preparing and completing accurate calibration records/reports; updating Standard Operating Procedures; preparing laboratory chemical reagents/solutions; assembling laboratory apparatus for chemical/biological/microbiological analysis; evaluating inventory and supplies related to individual parameters associated with the laboratory budget; performing investigative work for PWC customers; assisting lab technicians on customer concern visits and monitoring well collections; reading and interpreting technical federal/state laboratory guidelines; collecting, monitoring, and reporting weather data to the State of NC; organizing routine work and properly evaluating and interpreting data; assisting other departments regarding field certification; managing waste disposal with the Environmental Compliance and Emergency Response Manager; performing related duties as assigned; and driving/operating vehicles in performing work assignments. The position operates under general supervision of the W/R Laboratory Supervisor and in accordance with established policies and procedures.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Adheres to safety rules; no lost time accidents occur.
• Provides input into departmental/divisional objectives and long-range plans.
• Creates and maintains an environment conducive to good employee/management relations.
• Assumes responsibility for personal productivity and quality of work.
• Compiles data and prepares accurate and timely reports.
• Manages personal time, schedules, and deadlines.
• Accepts delegated authority and completes assigned projects in designated time frames.
• Responds to customer concerns and complaints professionally and timely.
• Interacts with other departments, divisions, and utility agencies to ensure proper communication.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Thorough knowledge of safety rules, regulations, and procedures.
• Thorough knowledge of the principles of organic/inorganic chemistry and modern laboratory techniques, materials, and equipment.
• Good knowledge of the laws, regulations, policies, and procedures related to laboratory operations, water/wastewater treatment, and industrial pretreatment.
• Working knowledge of water/wastewater treatment processes and process control.
• Ability to accurately analyze and interpret data subject to random test sampling by the State of NC.
• Ability to prepare complete, accurate records and reports subject to random review by the State of NC.
• Effective use of microcomputer resources and accurate data entry within acceptable time frames.
• Ability to perform accurate mathematical/statistical calculations.
• Ability to prepare laboratory reagents and assemble laboratory apparatus for chemical/biological analysis.
• Ability to perform investigative work for PWC customers regarding water/wastewater issues.
• Ability to read and interpret technical federal/state laboratory guidelines.
• Ability to accurately collect, monitor, and report weather data to the State of NC, the media, and the VA Hospital.
• Effective communication skills, both oral and written.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with the general public and all levels of employees in resolving customer issues pertaining to water/wastewater.

Education and Experience:

• Graduation from an accredited two-year community/technical college with a degree in chemistry, biology, environmental science, or related field and a minimum of two years of laboratory or treatment plant operations experience; OR
• Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma and a minimum of six years of experience as defined above; OR
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience as defined above.

Special Requirements:

• Must possess and maintain a valid Driver's License.
• Must obtain certification as a Class 1 wastewater analyst, and/or certified in drinking water microbiology and chemistry, within one year of employment in the position.
• Bacteriology certification required.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to perform the essential functions of the position.

GRADE 406 $23.29 - $38.07 HOURLY NON-EXEMPT

At the Fayetteville Public Works Commission (PWC), we mean it when we say our people are our greatest assets. Our 650 employees are essential in providing award-winning, safe, and reliable electric, water and sewer services to over 118,000 customers with rates that are among the lowest in the state. As the largest municipal public power system in North Carolina, Fayetteville’s Hometown Utility is customer-focused, locally owned and operated and takes pride in being a good neighbor who is committed to quality services, reliability, conservation, safety and the environment.