Water Plant Laboratory Technician

DESCRIPTION

Assists in the performance of routine physical, chemical and bacteriological analysis, collects samples, acquires data from various sources, enters data into computer programs and performs related work as required. May perform operations and maintenance duties as needed.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Performs physical analysis such as pH, color, turbidity, temperature, total and suspended solids, jar tests and all related quality control and quality assurance procedures.
• Performs chemical analysis such a total hardness, alkalinity, fluoride, chloride, chlorine, phosphorus, nitrogen and ammonia and related tests as directed.
• Assists in the calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment and facilities.
• Performs microbiological analysis such as total coliform, fecal coliform, heterotrophic plate count, plankton identification and enumeration, and the preparation of all media related to microbiological testing.
• Collects samples from a variety of water treatment plant, collection and distribution system locations in an investigative and compliant manner using proper protocol, techniques and apparatus.
• Answers customer questions regarding water quality and conducts investigations as directed.
• Utilizes computers and various application programs such as database, word processing, spreadsheets, drafting and drawing programs, and the Internet.
• Assists in the preparation of routine and special reports.
• Conducts analysis for all regulatory drinking water requirements.

MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS

• An Associate of Science degree or two (2) years of college education with at least twenty (20) cumulative semester hours of study in mathematics and science including chemistry and biology or one (1) year of full-time paid work experience performing quantitative chemical analyses.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Working knowledge of biology, microbiology, chemistry and computers.
• Ability to manipulate, assemble and handle laboratory and other heavy equipment.
• Ability to prepare and maintain accurate and detailed records and reports using a computer.
• Ability to follow oral and written technical instructions.
• Ability to perform chemical, physical and biological analyses using standard methods.
• Ability to wear a respirator and self-contained breathing apparatus.
• Ability to effectively communicate ideas orally in English.
• Ability to work effectively with employees, customers and the public.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:

• Must possess and maintain a valid Michigan Driver's License.
• Must obtain a Michigan D-4 Water Plant License within two (2) years of appointment and complete all necessary requirements to maintain certification.
• Ability to work weekends, holidays and shift work as required.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

Physical Demands

The employee occasionally works near moving mechanical parts and is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles, traffic, toxic or caustic chemicals, risk of electrical shock, and vibration. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; talk or hear; and smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Hand-eye coordination is necessary to operate computers and various pieces of office equipment.

You must meet the minimum entrance requirements and attach supporting documentation to be considered for employment. Failure to supply required documentation (i.e. Transcripts, Driver's License, incomplete application) will result in disqualification for consideration. Employees hired by the City must maintain residency as follows: Local 1600 - within 20 miles of the nearest boundary of the City of Flint. Please be sure to complete the application in full. Resumes may be uploaded with your application, but will not be accepted in lieu of a fully completed application and will not be considered for qualifying credit. "See Resume" or "See Attachment" will NOT be accepted.

The job description does not constitute an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills. It is also not an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.