Analytical Operations Specialist Trainee

City of Aiken•Aiken, SC

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Performs technical work in the production of water for the City ensuring all federal and state rules and regulations are followed. This role involves assisting in water quality monitoring, sample collection and analysis, equipment calibration, and data management to safeguard public health and ensure regulatory compliance.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
Valid state driver's license and a satisfactory motor vehicle record
Oral and written communication ability equivalent to that normally acquired through a high school education is required
Ability to run chemical tests and analyze results
Interpersonal skills necessary to be courteous of fellow employees, citizens, and businesses while technical duties
Ability to concentrate and pay close attention to detail for up to 60% of the work day
Acquire a Level E, D, and C level Water Treatment Certification to become Analytical Operations Specialist, and maintain with CEUs
Self-contained Breathing Apparatus Certification

Responsibilities

Assist in the collection of daily, weekly, and monthly water samples.
Perform tests for bacteria sampling, pH, chlorine, turbidity, and alkalinity and hardness; records results in log.
Assist in the operation of the City’s Lab to maintain state and federal regulations in accordance with water quality monitoring programs.
Ensure regulatory compliance and safeguard public health.
Assist in performing daily calibrations and verifications of equipment.
Drive to source water locations and sampling points to collect and preserve water samples for analysis.
Maintain associated records, and maintain safety and security of sampling sites.
Maintain concise chain of custody records; ensures integrity of the sample preservation and recordation for all water quality samples, and any customer related sampling.
Prepare lab standards which may include; identifying and labeling of standards.
Ensure that all lab reagents and samples are properly labeled.
Stay updated with water quality standards, regulations, and operating permit; communicates results to Lab Supervisor.
Analyze, compile, and import data provided by contract laboratories into a computerized data base; maintain accuracy and integrity of database records.
Assist in compiling quality information and reports.
Perform maintenance, calibration, and repairs equipment.
Perform security checks of the buildings and grounds.
Enter data into the City of Aiken’s Laboratory Information System.
Assist Lab Supervisor in responding to customer water quality complaints or concerns; explains water quality monitoring program; makes home visits to collect water samples for analysis.
Adhere to all laboratory safety precautions in the lab and field while collecting samples.
Maintain records, logs, and files for water production, power usage, chemical dosages, bacteria and turbidity reports, and filter washing.
Run tests for water purification testing including Ph, chlorine, fluoride, turbidity, bacteria, and confirmation of coliform and e-coli bacteria.
Inspect main plant, Shiloh Springs, Pine Log, Town Creek, Silver Bluff, and The Vale to ensure proper pressure, flows, Ph, chlorine, and fluoride; ensure proper pump maintenance is performed and recorded.
Maintain pumps and motors; greases and oils; maintains and repairs equipment.
Respond to questions and resolve problems or complaints concerning the water.
Operate various types of Lab equipment as needed; ensures assigned lab equipment is properly maintained and readings are accurate.
Help maintain a good relationship with other City departments and the general public on a daily basis.
Perform Quality Control Checks as well as bacteriologically.
Follow all company policies and procedures to ensure integrity of the water system is maintained.