JOB Performs difficult technical work supervising a drinking water and/or wastewater treatment plant laboratory necessary for the monitoring and analysis of municipal water and wastewater operations and the Town’s Pre-Treatment program. May participate in treatment operations and process control as needed. An employee in this class supervises and participates in a variety of physical, chemical, biological, and microbiological analyses associated with drinking water and wastewater treatment in a state certified laboratory. Work includes implementing Standard Methods for the Analysis of Water and Wastewater, creating and implementing standard operating procedures, work schedules and timetables, troubleshooting process problems, conducting complex laboratory procedures, and preparing necessary reports and maintenance of records and files. Work also involves conferring with operations staff on the interpretation of laboratory results and process control. EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
- Supervises and participates in a variety of standardized procedures and tests; performs the more complex laboratory tests; establishes standard operating procedures, methods and protocols.
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Supervises and performs tests on water and wastewater samples; coordinates test results with plant operations personnel.
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Operates a computer and tablet to analyze and track test results; assists with preparation of monitoring reports for the plant.
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Transfers LIMS data to the State as required.
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Participates in the interpretation of results and resulting process control decisions.
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Supervises and performs a variety of standardized laboratory tests and analysis of wastewater, water samples and pre-treatment samples to determine efficiency of treatment and compliance.
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Supervises the preparation of solutions and reagents.
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Supervises and performs tests to determine pH, conductivity, alkalinity, biological oxygen demand, TRC, conductivity, phosphorus (T), total solids, volatile solids, TKN, COD, dissolved oxygen, settable solids, fecal coliform, ammonia nitrogen, nitrates, total coliform, heterotrophic plate counts and other water and wastewater tests as deemed necessary.
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Interprets laboratory tests and prepares required reports.
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Supervises and participates in the maintenance of an inventory of chemicals, solutions, culture media, reagents, required forms, and other laboratory supplies.
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Consults with, informs, and advises plant personnel about controls to be used, defects found, or changes in treatment process.
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Collects and tests a variety of samples of wastewater, water distribution system samples, and industrial pretreatment samples, etc.
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Coordinates industrial pre-treatment sampling schedule.
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Maintains HACH WIMS system and trends data.
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Participates in hiring and provides training, performance coaching and evaluation for staff.
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Participates in development and administration of plant laboratory budget.
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Manages and coordinates Contract laboratory work including sampling and review of results.
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Participates in plant operations when needed; and may provide leadership, technical guidance, training, or supervision to operators as needed.
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Participates in the preparation of the annual wastewater report.
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Participates in the interpretation of results and resulting process control decisions.
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Supervises and performs a variety of standardized laboratory tests and analysis of compliance water distribution samples.
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Performs quality control program on equipment and supplies to assure reliable test results; maintains laboratory equipment in proper operating order; performs proficiency testing and maintains state laboratory certification for both water and wastewater.
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Performs other related duties as assigned.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION Physical Requirements
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Must be able to perform the basic life functions of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions. Must be able to perform light work exerting up to 25 pounds of force occasionally; and/or up-to 10 pounds of force frequently or constantly to move objects. Must possess visual acuity necessary to inspect schematic drawings, prepare and analyze figures and data, and operate a computer terminal.
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The work is generally performed in inside and outside environments, in extreme hot and cold weather, and exposed to various hazards such as loud noises, moving mechanical parts, electrical current, chemicals, fumes, odors, dust, mists, gases, and poor ventilation. Employee is also subject to the final OSHA standards on blood borne pathogens. The work involves occasional moderate risks or discomforts which require special safety precautions, e.g. working around moving parts or machines, irritating chemicals, etc. Employees may be required to use protective clothing or equipment such as masks, coats, boots, goggles, gloves, or shield.
Education and Experience
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Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry/Biology is preferred and/or 2-year Associate’s Degree with the ability to obtain a Bachelor’s degree.
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Five (5) years of experience working in a laboratory setting
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Or an equivalent combination of experience and education.
Special Requirement
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Possession of a valid North Carolina driver's license.
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Possession or ability to obtain Grade I Biological Wastewater Operator's within 12 months of hire.
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Must maintain passing scores on state examinations for Wastewater Laboratory Analysist Certification and Bacteriological Methods for Analysis of Drinking Water
