Laboratory Technician

The Laboratory Services program is seeking a Laboratory Technician. This position collects, records, preserves, and transports samples from field locations to the laboratory. Performs basic chemical analyses and supports laboratory functions with proper cleaning, labeling, and documentation procedures.
 

Essential Functions:

(The essential functions listed below are not intended to reflect all duties that may be assigned to this classification.  Clean Water Services (CWS) may augment duties and/or essential functions at its discretion.  Additionally, some incumbents may not perform all Essential Functions.)

1. Collects samples and performs field analyses at industrial, stormwater, municipal wastewater, and watershed monitoring sites; labels, preserves, and splits samples; installs, programs, and maintains monitoring and sampling equipment; maintains chain of custody requirements according to prescribed procedures.
2. Performs basic laboratory analyses, including but not limited to: pH, alkalinity, conductivity, turbidity, solids, and E. coli; prepares reagents and standards according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
3. Clean, washes, and maintains laboratory equipment and glassware according to SOPs.
4. Performs data entry, sample log-in, container labeling, and documentation.
5. Adheres to established QA/QC standards and accepted laboratory procedures.
6. Trains in the performance of complex manual and instrumental analyses.
7. Drives a CWS or personal vehicle for work-related purposes

Qualifications:

KNOWLEDGE OF: 

• Reagents, equipment, and protocols used in water/wastewater lab settings 
• Laboratory sampling methods, techniques, and analysis  
• Basic wet bench chemistry procedures 
• Laboratory QA/QC 
• Pertinent safety practices and procedures

SKILL IN: 

• Making accurate measurements and computations 
• Laboratory sampling and preservation 
• Cleaning lab glassware, dishes, and equipment 
• Operating laboratory testing equipment 
• Use of computers and computer software for record keeping, spreadsheet applications, and database use

ABILITY TO: 

• Understand and follow oral and written directions and procedures 
• Recognize deviations from normal sampling and analysis conditions 
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work including a variety of CWS staff and other government officials, community groups, and the general public
• Operate effectively in a team environment
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, CERTIFICATIONS AND/OR LICENSES
The following are the minimum qualifications for this position.

6 months performing similar work in field and laboratory environments; 

High School Diploma or equivalent; 

College-level coursework in chemistry, biology, microbiology, or a closely related science is preferred. 

Candidates must possess and maintain a valid state-issued driver’s license.