Laboratory Analyst

Emerald Coast Utilities Authority • Fl 32514, FL

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

This role involves collecting, analyzing, and reporting on water samples throughout the potable water distribution system. It includes conducting field investigations of Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSO’s), responding to water quality requests, and advising customers on resolving water quality issues. The position requires close collaboration with other ECUA departments to identify and resolve problems within both the potable water distribution and sanitary sewer collection systems. Work is performed under the direction of the Water Quality Field Supervisor or other designated supervisor. In the laboratory, the role involves performing professional and technical chemical, physical, and biological testing of water, wastewater, industrial waste, and by-products of the water and wastewater treatment process to determine their chemical components as prescribed by National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Conference (NELAC) certification. This includes performing analyses, preparing results, and potentially discussing changes to plant operations with operations personnel. Work is performed under the direction of the Laboratory Supervisor or other designated supervisor.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university with major course work in biology, chemistry, environmental science or a related field; or completion of a specialized vocational/technical program in chemical analysis, environmental science, or related field preferred.
• Two (2) years of laboratory experience involving the chemical testing and analysis of materials or any combination of education, training, and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
• Intermediate level of computer skills and knowledge and data entry skills required.
• Employee must be able to work overtime as described above.
• Possession of a valid Driver License.
• Knowledge of principles, practices, methods, and materials and theories of environmental water quality laboratory.
• Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions.
• Knowledge of principles and methods used in environmental monitoring of qualitative and quantitative chemical and biological analysis of potable water and wastewater.
• Knowledge of environmental regulations related to advanced wastewater plants, secondary wastewater plants, and potable water plants.
• Knowledge of principles and operation of water/wastewater treatment facilities.
• Skill in use and care of analytical instruments and test equipment used in laboratory work.
• Skill in intermediate computer knowledge, data entry.
• Ability to keep records and prepare reports.
• Ability to communicate efficiently and effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to work efficiently and effectively with co-workers, regulatory authorities, and the general public.
• Ability to open and close fire hydrants.

Nice To Haves

• The NELAC Institute (TNI) experience beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Collects, analyzes, and reports results on water samples throughout the potable water distribution system.
• Conducts field investigations of Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSO’s).
• Responds to water quality requests and advises customers regarding methods for resolving water quality issues.
• Works closely with other ECUA departments to identify problems and takes action to resolve those problems.
• Performs professional and technical level chemical, physical, and biological testing of water, wastewater, industrial waste, and by-products of the water and wastewater treatment process.
• Performs analyses, prepares results, and may discuss changes to plant operations with operations personnel.
• Reads and interprets federal, state, and local rules and regulations.
• Collects water samples at various places/stages of the water production and distribution system for bacteriological and chemical testing as needed.
• Collects environmental and industrial samples as needed.
• Performs a variety of routine physical, chemical and biological tests, both in the field and in the laboratory.
• Maintains detailed physical and electronic logs, prepares comprehensive reports of results, and maintains associated files.
• Investigates customer concerns related to water quality, including collecting water samples, performing routine field tests, taking field notes, and advising customers of possible solutions.
• Analyzes data and prepares reports of field and laboratory work performed.
• Operates a motor vehicle in connection with the essential functions of the position.
• Maintains inventory necessary to perform required work.
• Uses computer to maintain records of tests and test results obtained, producing maps through GIS and other applications.
• Conducts regular and special chemical and biological testing and analysis of water, wastewater, industrial waste, and by-product of the treatment process samples to determine chemical composition.
• Communicates with operational personnel regarding matters of concern.
• Uses the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to generate, track, and maintain records and reports.
• Accurately performs required calculations.
• Cleans, maintains, and calibrates equipment.
• Develops and/or modifies test methods as needed to overcome matrix interference, improve detections limits, and increase precision.
• All other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Standby weekly rotation.
• Overtime after hours on weekdays, weekends, and holidays when scheduled.
• Reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities on a case-by-case basis.
• Veterans' Preference shall be awarded to preference-eligible applicants in accordance with Florida law.
• Availability to work before, during, and after any disaster as directed.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level