Chemist I

This is responsible technical and analytical work in the Water Resources Department, Environmental Compliance Division Laboratory performing TNI/NELAC accredited analytical procedures. Work involves analysis of various samples obtained from City owned land, wastewater treatment plants, potable water systems, wells, beaches, lakes, streams, and industrial waste streams using specialized laboratory equipment, and is performed according to published scientific procedures that includes the documentation of experimental data and test results. An employee in this class may interact with the public by receiving citizens’ complaints concerning water quality problems and will forward the concerns to appropriate personnel. Work requires the exercise of initiative, good judgment, and sound, independent decision-making. Work is reviewed by a technical supervisor to assure established policies and standards are maintained.

Salary: $25.93 - $39.72 Hourly

Close Date: 10-22-2024 (11:59 PM)

Minimum Qualifications. Applicants Must:

• Have an Associate’s degree in the chemical, physical or environmental sciences, or have two (2) years of equivalent and successful college education, with a minimum of sixteen (16) college semester credit hours in chemistry.

• Possess and maintain a valid Driver License.

• Have detailed knowledge of modern laboratory techniques and procedures to obtain accurate test results.

• Have knowledge of laboratory safety principles, practices and procedures including the occupational hazards associated with various chemicals and substances utilized in the work.

• Be able to apply chemical and mathematical theory to solve practical problems in scientific analysis and laboratory testing and to perform basic mathematical and algebraic calculations.

• Be able to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and other agencies as required to complete assignments.

• Be able to create, update and maintain records and reports, in writing and by entering data into a Laboratory Information Management database.

• Be able to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

• Acknowledge this position is designated as Emergency Critical (EC) and if hired into the position, you must be immediately available to the department before, during, and after a declared emergency and/or disaster.

Desirable Qualifications. Preferred applicants:

• Possess a valid bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, microbiology, environmental sciences, physical sciences or engineering.

• Have previous related laboratory experience in a water resources environment.

• Have some knowledge of data processing concepts, techniques and operating principles and chemistry principles and theory.

IMPORTANT APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

For purposes of employment, re-employment, promotion, transfer or demotion, the most qualified applicants will be selected to continue in the hiring process. At this point, any prior criminal records will be verified. A prior criminal record will not necessarily disqualify a selected applicant from employment.

The City of St. Petersburg is committed to a Drug Free Workplace and compliance with the Department of Transportation (DOT) drug testing rules. Applicants may be required to successfully complete pre-employment drug testing and/or medical exams.