JOB
DEFINITION
Under general direction, plans, schedules, assigns and reviews the work of water quality laboratory staff; coordinates, monitors, and provides technical input for assigned water quality control; directs and trains staff in the collection of samples and performance of laboratory tests; develops a variety of analytical testing techniques; serves as a technical resource to water and wastewater personnel; provides technical assistance to the Deputy Public Works Director; performs a variety of technical tasks relative to conducting and interpreting standard and complex laboratory analysis; and performs related work as required.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives general direction from assigned supervisory or management personnel. Exercises general supervision over assigned staff.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
This is the full supervisory-level class in the water quality series. Responsibilities include planning, organizing, supervising, reviewing and evaluating the work of laboratory staff. The incumbent is expected to independently perform the full range of sampling and chemical, biochemical, biological, bacteriological and physical analyses. Performance of the work requires the use of considerable independence, initiative and discretion within established guidelines. This class is distinguished from the Deputy Public Works Director in that the latter has management responsibility for all utility functions and activities of the City. EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only)
Management reserves the right to add, modify, change or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.-
Plans, organizes, assigns, supervises and reviews the work of assigned staff in laboratory work.
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Trains staff in work and safety procedures and in the operation and use of equipment and supplies; implements procedures and standards.
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Evaluates employee performance, counsels employees and effectively recommends initial disciplinary action; assists in selection and promotion.
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Monitors operations and activities of the laboratory; recommends improvements and modifications and prepares various reports on operations and activities.
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Determines and recommends equipment, materials, and staffing needs for laboratory operations; participates in the annual budget preparation; prepares detailed cost estimates with appropriate justifications, as required; maintains a variety of records and prepares routine reports of work performance.
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Monitors and controls supplies and equipment; orders necessary supplies and equipment.
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Ensures compliance with regulatory quality control standards, including developing, implementing and enforcing in-house quality assurance program, updating and reviewing standard operating procedures, and performing corrective action when required.
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Ensures compliance with applicable regulatory regulations, including compiling and preparing various reports and records related to water quality regulatory monitoring in addition to processing control requirements.
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Provides plant operation technical assistance regarding sampling and chemical or microbiological analysis, including attending and participating in weekly staff meetings with operations, maintenance, and pretreatment staff.
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Performs other duties as assigned.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Education and Experience:
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:-
Equivalent to an Associate’s degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, microbiology, natural or physical science, environmental engineering, sanitary engineering, or chemical engineering or
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A Grade II Laboratory Analyst certification from the California Water Environment Association in lieu of required education.
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Four (4) years of experience in performing laboratory analysis of wastewater, potable water or industrial products, including
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Two (2) years of lead or supervisory experience.
License:-
Valid California class C driver's license with satisfactory driving record.
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Grade II Laboratory Analyst certification from the California Water Environment Association within two (2) years of employment.
No other information will be accepted and resumes, cover letters or additional materials WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Must possess mobility to work in a water and/or wastewater treatment plant laboratory; operate and motor vehicle; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; color vision to identify chemical and biological solvents and substances; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone. Employees primarily work indoors but frequently walk within treatment plants to take samples. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to handle laboratory equipment. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects necessary to perform job functions.
ENVIRONMENTAL ELEMENTS
Employees work primarily indoors but are occasionally exposed to loud noise levels, vibration, confining workspace, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous physical substances and fumes. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives, and contractors in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.
WORKING CONDITIONS
May be required to work evenings, weekends and holidays.
THE SELECTION PROCESS
All applications received are screened to determine which applicants most closely match the desired education, experience, knowledge, and abilities of the position. Applicants will receive email notification of the results of the screening process. Applicants meeting the minimum qualifications are not necessarily guaranteed advancement to the examination process, as only the most qualified candidates will be invited to participate. The most qualified applicants will be invited to an oral board examination tentatively to be held in late July or early August. The Department Head [and/or designee(s)] will interview the top six (6) candidates from the examination process. The eligible list created from this recruitment may be used to fill full-time, part-time, temporary, and grant positions. The City reserves the right to extend the final filing date as necessary.
