Job Descriptions

DEFINITION

Under general direction, performs chemical, biological and bacteriological analysis of water/wastewater, related solids and liquids in support of efficient operation of water and wastewater treatment operations. This position works closely with Water/Wastewater/Distribution Operations and Environmental Compliance staff.

This classification is assigned to the Turlock City Employees Association bargaining unit for labor relations purposes and is subject to overtime assignments.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is an entry/journey level class. Individuals working in the Lab Analyst I classification work under close supervision to perform routine laboratory testing procedures. This classification requires basic knowledge of water and wastewater analysis and procedures.

Individuals working the Lab Analyst II classification are expected to have all the characteristics of a Lab Analyst I and journey level knowledge and experience of more advanced water and wastewater analysis and procedures.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

General supervision is provided by the Water Quality Control Laboratory Supervisor or Laboratory Analyst Supervisor; incumbents may receive technical direction from the Laboratory Analyst, Sr.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS - INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING:

• Learn to performs a variety of basic and advanced chemical, biological, and bacteriological tests of water, wastewater, and solids necessary to ensure that plant processes meet wastewater treatment and NPDES discharge permit standards and that drinking water meets State and Federal regulations.
• Learn to collect samples for analysis, prepare glassware and equipment for lab use and perform lab housekeeping duties as necessary.
• Learn to perform mathematical calculations and statistical analysis for test results;
• Learn to maintain and perform minor repairs on laboratory and field equipment.
• Learn to coordinate sample collection and provide input for process evaluation.
• Participate in special projects or studies as assigned.
• Observe and enforce safety rules.
• Assist with the preparation of technical and administrative reports, and other written documents, including the submittal of all regulatory required reports.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with staff through clear and concise communication.
• Subject to rotating shifts, weekends, and holidays.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

In addition to the essential functions for Laboratory Analyst I classification.

• Perform a variety of basic and advanced chemical, biological, and bacteriological tests of water, wastewater, and solids necessary to ensure that plant processes meet wastewater treatment and NPDES discharge permit standards and that drinking water meets State and Federal regulations.
• Collect samples for analysis, prepare glassware and equipment for lab use and perform lab housekeeping duties as necessary.
• Perform mathematical calculations and statistical analysis for test results.
• Maintain and perform minor repairs on laboratory and field equipment.
• Coordinate sample collection and provide input for process evaluation.
• Make recommendations for budgetary items.
• Oversee and train subordinate staff.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Knowledge of:

• To learn chemistry and microbiology as applied in a water or wastewater treatment laboratory.
• To learn analytical procedures used in testing water and wastewater samples and the mathematics used to obtain results.
• To learn quality assurance and quality control procedures in the laboratory and water and wastewater sample collection procedures.
• To learn general principles and procedures of wastewater treatment, water treatment and distribution systems.
• Safety rules and regulations.
• Use of modern office equipment and applicable software.

Ability to:

• Perform a variety of chemical and biological laboratory tests.
• Recognize and communicate water and wastewater process control and compliance issues.
• Perform sample collection.
• Manage multiple tasks while maintaining accurate results.
• Complete all written data entry documentations with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to follow oral and written instruction.
• Operate modern office equipment and software programs.
• Communicate clearly and concisely orally and in writing.

Laboratory Analyst II

Knowledge of:

In addition to the requirements for the Lab Analyst I classification:

• Intermediate to advanced chemistry and microbiology as applied in a water or wastewater treatment laboratory.
• Analytical procedures used in testing water and wastewater samples and the mathematics used to obtain results.
• Quality assurance and quality control procedures in the laboratory and water and wastewater sample collection procedures.
• General principles and procedures of wastewater treatment, water treatment and distribution systems.

Ability to:

In addition to the requirements for the Lab Analyst I classification:

• Assess changing conditions and initiate appropriate action.
• Work with limited supervision and exercise sound judgment.

Experience and Training Guidelines

Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Laboratory Analyst I

Equivalent to a high school diploma or GED certification.

Laboratory Analyst II

Equivalent to a high school diploma or GED certification and six college units or CEUs in a related field or scholastic general education (i.e. Speech, Math, English, Science, Foreign Language, etc.).

Laboratory Analyst I

Experience in a laboratory is desirable but not required.

Two years of increasingly responsible experience in a water and wastewater laboratory analysis similar or greater in size and complexity to the City of Turlock.

Possession of an appropriate, valid Class C California Driver's License at the time of appointment, to be maintained as a condition of continued employment.

Laboratory Analyst I

Possession of a valid Grade I Laboratory Analyst Certification from the California Water Environment Association or a Grade I Water Quality Laboratory Analyst Certification from the CA-NV Section of the American Water Works Association within 24 months of appointment to the position.

California Water Environment Association Environmental Compliance Inspector, Water Distribution and Water Treatment Certification is desired.

Laboratory Analyst II

Possession of a valid Grade I Laboratory Analyst Certification from the California Water Environment Association or a Grade I Water Quality Laboratory Analyst Certification from the CA-NV Section of the American Water Works Association at time of appointment

Obtain a Grade II Laboratory Analyst Certification from the California Water Environment Association or a Grade II Water Quality Laboratory Analyst Certification from the CA-NV Section of the American Water Works Association within 24 months of appointment to the position.

California Water Environment Association Environmental Compliance Inspector, Water Distribution and Water Treatment Certification is desired.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Physical Conditions:

Maintain the following physical abilities: See well enough to read fine print, computer screens and analytical equipment; hear well enough to receive and understand instructions, converse on the telephone, and in person; use of hands and fingers for use sensitive analytical equipment, computer keyboard, filing, writing and answering telephones; ability to differentiate odors; capable of clear speech; bodily mobility to stand for extended periods, stoop, bend as needed; able to lift and carry objects weighing up to 25 pounds.