Job Title

Job Family

Job Code

Job Exempt

Laboratory Technical Specialist

Seiu_White_Collar

WTD01

Pay Grade

Pay Rate Type

Minimum

Midpoint

Maximum

S12

Hourly

$28.28

$36.07

$43.85

Job Description

Provides technical expertise to the laboratory staff. Performs specialized analysis of water, wastewater, and soil samples. Duties include providing technical advice to all lab staff and assisting analysts in troubleshooting, method compliance, understanding of SOPs, and other various phases of work. Work is performed under the supervision of the Laboratory Manager/Chemist and reviewed through conferences, analysis of results, and evaluation of reports.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's Degree in Science, Chemistry, or related field plus four (4) or more years laboratory experience, one (1) year of which must have been in environmental chemistry; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Must demonstrate proficiency in all phases of general lab work. Some lead or supervisory experience preferred.

Responsibilities

EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED:
NOTE: THE LISTED DUTIES ARE ONLY ILLUSTRATIVE AND ARE NOT INTENDED TO DESCRIBE EVERY FUNCTION THAT MAY BE PERFORMED BY THIS JOB CLASS. THE OMISSION OF SPECIFIC STATEMENTS DOES NOT PRECLUDE MANAGEMENT FROM ASSIGNING SPECIFIC DUTIES NOT LISTED IF SUCH DUTIES ARE A LOGICAL ASSIGNMENT TO THE POSITION.

Collaborates with Laboratory Manager to implement and maintain the management system.

Serves as technical director/manager, as dictated by governing agencies.

Identifies the occurrence of departures from the management system and/or test SOPs and initiates actions to prevent or minimize such departures.

Monitors standards of performance in QC and QA.

Monitors the validity of analyses performed and data generated in the laboratory to assure reliable data.

Analyzes various environmental samples using advanced laboratory equipment to determine concentrations, composition, or other environmental characteristics and parameters as required.

Performs various mathematical calculations, including solutions of algebraic equations, basic statistical calculations, percentages, fractions, and ratios; verifies work and calculations for accuracy and reliability.

Instructs other assigned laboratory staff in procedures, techniques, and relevant theory; assigns and monitors work; trains new lab analysts.

Calibrates test equipment by analyzing solutions of known concentration or composition.

Conducts tours of laboratory when Laboratory Manager is not present.

Designs and conducts experimental tests or procedures for special analysis projects, or for trouble-shooting of equipment or scientific techniques; determines procedures to be followed when test results deviate from the routine or standard.

Trouble-shoots lab instrumentation when necessary, and contacts manufacturers for assistance.

Performs other related duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Considerable knowledge of water analysis/characterization techniques and procedures.

Considerable knowledge of applied chemistry.

Responsible for the technical operations and the provision of the resources needed to ensure the required quality of laboratory operations.

Assist the Laboratory Manager in staying informed of all changes to certification requirements based on FDOH accrediting body.

Knowledge of the hazards associated with various chemicals and substances.

Knowledge of safety principles, practices, and procedures in a FDOH-certified laboratory.

Knowledge of local, state, and federal regulations governing treatment plant process control and laboratory analyses.

Skills in analyzing complex technical data and formulating conclusions and recommendations.

Considerable ability to perform accurate statistical analysis using LIMS computer software to comply with regulatory agencies QA/QC requirements.

Ability to work in laboratory being potentially exposed to corrosive chemicals, toxins, poisons, and carcinogenic substances.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with scientific and administrative officials from the City, industry, other agencies, and the general public.

Ability to operate sophisticated laboratory instrumentation such as automated colorimetric analyzers, auto-titrators, graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometers, ICP-OES, and other equipment.

Ability to apply chemical and mathematical theories to solve practical problems in scientific analysis and laboratory testing.

Ability to train and lead assigned analysts.

Ability to perform tests requiring eye/hand coordination.

Ability to work under changes in work conditions and adjust.

Ability to prepare clear and concise reports, both orally and in writing.

Ability to stand for long periods of time.