Job Descriptions

DEFINITION

Performs chemical, biological and bacteriological analysis of water/wastewater, related solids and liquids in support of efficient operation of water and wastewater treatment operations. Performs other related work as required.

This classification is assigned to the miscellaneous bargaining unit for labor relations purposes and is subject to overtime and call-back assignments.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Individuals working in the Lab Analyst I classification work under general 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 of the characteristics of a Lab Analyst I and journey level knowledge and experience of more advanced water and wastewater skills and procedures.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

This position receives supervision from the Sr. Lab Analyst and/or Water Quality Control Division Manager. The Lab Analyst II classification may be required to provide supervision to the Lab Analyst I.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: - Duties may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Performs a variety of basic and advanced chemical, biological, and bacteriological tests of water, wastewater, solids and soils necessary to ensure that plant processes meet wastewater treatment and NPDES discharge permit standards and that drinking water meets State and Federal health requirements;
• Collects samples for analysis, prepares glassware and equipment for lab use and performs lab housekeeping duties as necessary;
• Makes mathematical calculations and statistical analysis for test results;
• Maintains and makes minor repairs to lab equipment, fixtures and samplers;
• Makes recommendations for budgetary items.
• Coordinates with others in the division sample collection and provides input for process evaluation.
• Performs related duties as assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Lab Analyst I

Knowledge Of:

• 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.
• Computer spreadsheets, word processing and basic computer aptitude.
• General principles and procedures of wastewater treatment, wastewater collection and water system.
• Safe work practices in a water/wastewater laboratory environment.

Ability To:

• Perform a variety of chemical and biological laboratory tests.
• Perform technical test procedures and recognize water and wastewater treatment problems during analysis of test results.
• Keep records accurately and neatly and prepare clean and concise reports.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Manage multiple tasks within a given time frame and insure accurate results.
• Work with limited supervision and exercise sound judgment.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Lab Analyst II

Knowledge of:

• All of minimum qualifications for Lab Analyst I classification
• Intermediate to advance 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, wastewater collection and water systems.
• Safe work practices in a water/wastewater laboratory environment.

Ability to:

• Perform a variety of chemical and biological laboratory tests.
• Perform technical test procedures and recognize water and wastewater treatment problems during analysis of test results.
• Keep records accurately and neatly and prepare clean and concise reports.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Manage multiple tasks within a given time frame and insure accurate results.
• Work with limited supervision and provide basic supervision to subordinates and exercise sound judgement.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted during the course of work.

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

Lab Analyst I

Experience:

One year of experience performing analytical tests in a water or wastewater laboratory.

Education:

Possession of an Associate of Science or Arts Degree in chemistry, biology, or related field.

Lab Analyst II

Experience:

Two years of experience in performing laboratory testing comparable to that of a Lab Analyst I with the City of Turlock.

Education:

Possession of an Associate of Science or Arts Degree in chemistry, biology, or related field, and upper level college coursework in biology, chemistry or a related field.

LICENSE OR CERTIFICATE

Lab Analyst I

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

Possession of a Grade I LaboratoryAnalyst Certification from the California Water Environment Association or a Grade I Water Quality Laboratory Analyst Certification from the CA-NVSection of the American Water Works Associationwithin 18 months of appointment.

Lab Analyst II

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

Possession of a Grade II Laboratory Technician Certification from the California Water Environment Association or Grade II Water Quality Laboratory Analyst Certification from the CA-NV Section of the American Water Works Association within 12 months of appointment to a Lab Analyst II.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

Lab Analyst I/II

Education:

Graduation from a four year college or university with a major in biology, chemistry or a related science. Basic skills and/or experience in supervision of others.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

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.