Laboratory Analyst I

Responsible for conducting chemical, biological and physical analyses of water and wastewater samples to ensure compliance with local, state and federal regulations. Also conducts analyses to optimize treatment processes within City facilities.
Performs laboratory analysis on routine and special samples of water and wastewater; tests include biochemical oxygen demand, total and volatile solids and suspended solids, phosphorus, ammonia, pH, chlorine residual, oil and grease, alkalinity, volatile acids, conductivity, total and fecal coliform, chemical oxygen demand, methylene blue active substances, and turbidity.

Collects/receives and prepares samples for analysis according to established regulatory protocols.

Operates and maintains laboratory equipment, ensuring accurate and reliable results.

Records and interprets data, preparing detailed reports to various stakeholders.

Adheres to strict quality control and safety standards.

Supports laboratory operations by maintaining inventory and calibrating equipment.

Collaborates with plant operators to optimize treatment processes based upon laboratory analyses.

Reports results of influent and effluent samples of city reclamation facilities which are reported to the Georgia Environmental Protection Division; indicates compliance or non-compliance with permits.

Records and reports industrial sample test results to the Water Quality Laboratory Coordinator.

Records and reports stream, lake and other environmental sample test results to the Environmental Monitoring Coordinator.

Runs coliform test on well water samples or to inspect new water lines; preserves samples sent out for additional tests.

Maintains, calibrates, and adjusts laboratory equipment to appropriate settings.

Requests and stores all laboratory supplies and reagents.

Cleans laboratory equipment and restocks laboratory materials as needed.

Coordinates and communicates with private, third-party and/or state laboratories to ensure timely and quality analysis, approved procedures and reporting.

Assists with minor housekeeping duties as necessary.

Performs other related duties as required.

Employee subject to recall to duty in cases of emergency. Education and Experience:

High School Diploma or G.E.D.

Bachelors Degree in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science or a related field is preferred.

General Laboratory Experience.

Ability to utilize laboratory instruments.

Any equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the minimum level of qualifications stated above.

Licenses and Certifications:

Water or Wastewater Lab Analyst Certification.

Must possess a valid Class C Georgia drivers license and satisfactory motor vehicle record.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of practices, procedures, and safety precautions involved in laboratory analysis.

Knowledge of basic chemistry, mathematics, and biology.

Knowledge of record keeping.

Ability to plot and interpret graphs.

Ability to read and interpret rules and regulations pertaining to water and wastewater sampling and testing.

Ability to distinguish colors.

Ability to use a pipet.

Ability to operate and calibrate standard and specialized laboratory equipment.This position is classified as safety-sensitive. Incumbent will be subject to random drug/alcohol testing.

This class specification should not be interpreted as all inclusive. It is intended to identify the major responsibilities and requirements of this job. The incumbents may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification.

The above position qualifies for an automatic promotion to a Lab Technician II position upon attainment of the second certification (either Water or Wastewater Lab Analyst Certification.)
Maximum of 15% in incentive pay.