Laboratory Technician

CLOSING DATE/TIME: December 4, 2023 at 4:00 PM Pacific Time

NOTE: This position may require you to work weekends and occasional holidays.

SALARY

Range 209: $29.70 - $36.99 Hourly; $5,148.00 - $6,411.60 Monthly

GENERAL PURPOSE

Under general supervision, performs a wide variety of duties related to the collection and field analysis of water and wastewater samples; assists in the operation of the analytical testing laboratory; completes basic laboratory tests; and performs related duties, as assigned.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This fully qualified journey-level classification is responsible for performing the full range of technical laboratory program support duties, working independently, and exercising judgement and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.

TYPICAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to this position.

• Performs a wide variety of duties in support of the District’s laboratory operations and services; conducts routine sampling and analysis; maintains quality control and quality assurance and follows safe work procedures; maintains accurate records of work performed and analysis results.
• Collects raw, potable, and reclaimed water samples throughout the District, including bacteriological, organic, and radiological samples.
• Performs routine field analyses on potable and non-potable water samples using a wide range of laboratory equipment to test for chlorine residuals, turbidity, color, dissolved oxygen, pH, and other analyses as directed; prepares standards/reagents and calculates/compiles test data.
• Performs laboratory analyses when assigned to selected areas including, but not limited to, totals suspended solids, dewatering, total dissolved solids, Biochemical Oxygen Demand, alkalinity, and related analyses; prepares standards/reagents and calculates/compiles test data.
• Records data in an accurate manner that conforms with department procedures; enters laboratory and quality control test results into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Performs routine calibrations and analyses using field meters and field equipment.
• Interacts with the public in matters concerning water quality; handles customer complaints in a professional and tactful manner in order to enhance customer relations.
• Receives, reviews, and processes various reports and records including bacteriological analysis data; summarizes quality control data.
• Participates in the operation of the District State-certified analytical laboratory by performing basic laboratory analyses, organizing and tracking supplies, calibrating and maintaining equipment, assisting with special projects, receiving and splitting samples.
• Performs vehicle inspections on laboratory vehicles, including checking tire conditions, interior/exterior, required cab supplies, safety equipment, engine fluids, truck lights, and truck accessories.
• Observes and complies with all District and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

EMWD Benefits Summary

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KNOWLEDGE OF:

• Basic principles of chemical, biological, and physical sciences.
• Basic principles, practices, equipment, and materials required for the chemical, biochemical, biological, bacteriological, and physical analysis of samples of potable water.
• Methods and techniques of aseptic sampling and analysis.
• Commonly used laboratory equipment and supplies.
• Standard laboratory glassware and its proper use.
• Methods and techniques of calibrating and maintaining field instruments.
• Laboratory safety procedures and equipment.
• Basic principles of water distribution.
• Applicable federal, state, and local laws, and codes in assigned areas of responsibility.
• Technical report-writing practices and procedures.
• Principles and procedures of record keeping.
• The District’s geographic area including various street locations.
• District and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and District staff.
• The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
• Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.

ABILITY TO:

• Perform routine analyses of water and wastewater and summarize results.
• Use and perform calibration and minor maintenance and repair on a variety of laboratory equipment.
• Accurately quantify known chemicals/reagents to amounts needed.
• Maintain an inventory of supplies and equipment required for the performance of necessary analyses.
• Aseptically collect samples.
• Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve minor field and laboratory equipment problems.
• Record and maintain accurate data.
• Organize own work, set priorities, and meet critical time deadlines.
• Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies, and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed.
• Independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.
• Follow and apply written and oral instructions.
• Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Any combination of experience and education that provides the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying, along with the specific licenses/certifications as outlined below:

EXPERIENCE:

• One (1) year of experience providing technical support to a water laboratory testing program.

EDUCATION:

• Equivalent to completion of the twelfth (12th) grade, supplemented by college level coursework in biology, chemistry, and mathematics or a related field.

LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS:

• A valid California driver’s license and the ability to maintain insurability under the Water District Vehicle Insurance Policy.