Chemist

The City of San Leandro's Wastewater Treatment Division provides operation and maintenance of the Water Pollution Control Plant, 125 miles of sanitary sewer pipeline, 13 remote sewage pump stations, and the inspection and maintenance of the City's storm water collection system.

DEFINITION:
Under direction, performs a variety of laboratory tests and analyses of wastewater, biosolids, and other samples related to process control and regulatory compliance; follows testing and analysis procedures, reviews data, and interprets results; in conjunction with and under the oversight of the Laboratory and Compliance Supervisor, oversees and enforces the Quality Assurance Program and coordinates and conducts activities related to maintaining accreditation under the Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (ELAP); prepares reports; maintains a variety of records and files; and performs related duties as assigned.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
This journey-level classification is responsible for independently performing complex laboratory duties involved in the collection and analysis of various wastewater samples. Positions at this level exercise judgment and initiative in their assigned tasks, 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.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED AND RECEIVED
Receives direction from the Laboratory and Compliance Supervisor. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

The typical job functions of the classification may include, but are not limited to, the functions below and are subject to changes in operational necessity.

• Performs a variety of laboratory tests and analyses and calculates and interprets results related to the treatment and quality of wastewater, biosolids, and process control efficiencies; identifies and investigates anomalies in results and determines probable causes; presents findings and recommendations to supervisor.
• Maintains laboratory data and records using the laboratory information management system; analyzes and validates accuracy of data and results.
• Prepares and mixes standard reagents, media, and solutions used in laboratory analyses following established procedures.
• Sets up, calibrates, operates, and maintains a variety of standard and specialized laboratory instruments and equipment; performs required safety, quality control, and calibration checks of instruments and equipment; maintains the laboratory in a safe and clean condition.
• Reviews and recommends changes to standard operating procedures to ensure compliance with TNI standards and regulatory and reporting requirements.
• For detailed information about the job classification, visit: Chemist .

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION GUIDELINES:
Any combination equivalent to experience and education that would most likely provide the required knowledge and abilities would be qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Education : Equivalent to a bachelors degree from an accredited college or university in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, microbiology, environmental science, chemical engineering, natural or physical science, or a related field.

Experience : Three (3) years of increasingly responsible professional environmental laboratory analysis experience, and the interpretation and application of policies, procedures, rules, and regulations.

Licenses and Certifications: Possession of a Grade 2 California Water Environment Association (CWEA) Laboratory Analyst Certificate in good standing or must obtain within 12 months of appointment to the position.

Wondering what to expect during the recruitment process? Visit the City's Job Opportunities page.

SELECTION PROCESS: The following dates are tentative and subject to change based on the needs of the hiring department:

For more information regarding ADA accommodations or Veteran's preference, please visit the City's FAQ page .