Laboratory Analyst I / II

Palmdale Water District•Palmdale, CA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

This position involves performing professional-level duties related to a variety of chemical, biochemical, and bacteriological water testing and analysis activities. The role ensures compliance with State and Federal requirements by assessing the characteristics of water samples from various sources, including raw ground and surface water, residential tap water, and treatment plant process control product. Responsibilities include operating and maintaining laboratory equipment, preparing solutions and media, entering data, maintaining records, ordering supplies, and responding to public inquiries about water quality. The position requires the ability to troubleshoot analytical procedures and recommend improvements. There are two levels: Laboratory Analyst I (entry-level) and Laboratory Analyst II (journey-level), with differences in expected independence and experience.

Requirements

Principles and practices of chemistry, bacteriology and the chemical sciences, including methods and techniques of laboratory testing and analysis.
Modern laboratory procedures and equipment, including computer uses and applications used in laboratory testing and analysis.
Sample collection/monitoring procedures and sample preservation methods related to water treatment processes.
Modern office procedures, methods and computer equipment including word processing, database and spreadsheet applications.
Ability to perform professional level duties related to a variety of chemical, biochemical, and bacteriological water testing and analysis activities.
On a continuous basis, know and understand all aspects of the job; intermittently analyze work papers, reports and special projects; identify and interpret technical and numerical information; observe and problem solve operational and technical policy and procedures.
Prepare reagents; assemble and operate testing apparatus and equipment.
Perform tests accurately and precisely and maintain associated records.
Learn pertinent local, State, and Federal codes, regulations, and laws.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Drivers’ License.
Possession of, or ability to obtain within six months, a State Water Resources Control Board Water Treatment Operator Grade 2 is required.
Possession of, or ability to obtain within six months, a State Water Resources Control Board Water Distribution Grade 2 certification is required.
Principles and practices of quality assurance and quality control and their applications to a wide variety of testing and analytical procedures (for Analyst II).
Pertinent local, State, and Federal codes, regulations, and laws (for Analyst II).
Independently perform professional level duties related to a variety of chemical, biochemical, and bacteriological water testing and analysis activities (for Analyst II).
Maintain laboratory personnel requirements according to 22 CCR § 64812.00 (for Analyst II).
Possession of a State Water Resources Control Board Water Treatment Operator Grade 2 Certificate is required (for Analyst II).
Possession of a State Water Resources Control Board Water Distribution Operator Grade 2 Certificate is required (for Analyst II).

Nice To Haves

One year of water treatment testing and analysis is desirable (for Analyst I).
Possession of an American Water Works Association Water Quality Laboratory Analyst 1 Certificate is desirable (for Analyst I).

Responsibilities

Test, analyze, and collect water samples from various sources, including raw ground and surface water, residential tap water; and treatment plant process control product.
Assess chemical, biochemical, and bacteriological characteristics of samples to ensure compliance with State and Federal requirements.
Recognize problems that may occur in an analytical procedure; trouble shoot known procedures; identify possible problems affecting test results; recommend changes to procedures, as appropriate.
Set up, calibrate, and operate a variety of laboratory equipment and instruments; perform routine servicing and preventive maintenance of laboratory equipment instruments.
Prepare standard chemical solutions, reagents, stains and bacteriological media.
Enter laboratory data into a computer system for further analysis and reporting purposes; maintain laboratory records and prepare required reports.
Assist in maintaining adequate laboratory supplies and inventory; order supplies as assigned.
Work with consultants or vendors as required.
Test, analyze and collect various granular activated carbon samples.
Respond to questions and complaints from the public regarding water quality.
Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other District employees and the public using principles of good customer service.
Perform related duties as assigned.