W/R Laboratory Chemist

Fayetteville Public Works Commission•Fayetteville, NC

8d•Onsite

About The Position

This position performs professional laboratory work in support of water and wastewater treatment operations. The role is responsible for conducting and overseeing chemical, biological, and microbiological testing; interpreting results; supporting quality control and regulatory compliance; maintaining laboratory supplies and equipment; assisting with operational response activities, including customer complaints and sample collection; and helping direct and lead the work of other laboratory personnel to support efficient laboratory operations and quality standards. The position works under the general supervision of the W/R Laboratory Supervisor and exercises independent judgment in carrying out assigned responsibilities.

Requirements

Thorough knowledge of chemical, biological, and microbiological laboratory principles, practices, procedures, and applicable safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
In-depth knowledge of analytical testing methods and the ability to conduct complex laboratory analyses, interpret results, and support operational and regulatory decision-making.
Thorough knowledge of quality control standards, laboratory safety requirements, chemical hygiene practices, and the proper handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals and biological materials.
Ability to prepare reagents, solutions, and culture media; maintain laboratory instruments and related equipment; and keep accurate, up-to-date laboratory documentation, procedures, and records.
Excellent organizational, troubleshooting, and complex problem-solving skills, with the ability to establish priorities, manage multiple assignments, and function effectively with minimal instruction or supervision as part of a larger team.
Ability to investigate customer complaints, collect and evaluate samples, identify potential causes, and recommend or support appropriate corrective action.
Skill in using laboratory instrumentation, standard office software, and related data and recordkeeping systems; ability to maintain inventory and support laboratory-related projects, timelines, and workflow coordination.
Ability to provide day-to-day direction, technical guidance, and work coordination to other laboratory personnel in support of efficient operations and quality standards.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, collaborate with operations staff, regulatory agencies, vendors, and the public, and provide instruction or training to team members as needed.
Ability to operate a motor vehicle safely in the performance of assigned duties.
Possess and maintain a valid driver license.
Class II Wastewater Analyst certification is required.

Nice To Haves

Experience that demonstrates the ability to provide technical guidance, coordinate workflow, or support the direction of other laboratory personnel is preferred.
Obtain State of North Carolina Public Health Laboratory certification in Bacteriology within twelve months of employment.
Obtain a C-Distribution Certification within 12 months of employment.

Responsibilities

Perform and oversee chemical, biological, and microbiological analyses of water, wastewater, biosolids, and related samples using approved laboratory methods and standard operating procedures.
Conduct complex laboratory procedures, calibrate and operate analytical instrumentation, validate test data, and ensure the accurate calculation, documentation, and reporting of results.
Coordinate laboratory workflow, sampling schedules, and testing priorities to support operational demands, compliance monitoring, and timely turnaround of analytical results.
Assist in directing and leading the work of other laboratory personnel by helping coordinate assignments, providing technical guidance, and supporting efficient daily laboratory operations.
Prepare and oversee the preparation of reagents, standard solutions, culture media, and control materials in accordance with established formulas, quality standards, and laboratory safety procedures.
Evaluate analytical findings, identify trends or anomalies, and prepare technical reports, summaries, and required documentation to support process control, regulatory reporting, and operational decision-making.
Perform and document quality assurance and quality control activities, including instrument checks, method verification, control sample review, and evaluation of laboratory supplies to ensure valid and defensible test results.
Maintain chemical, media, and laboratory supply inventories; monitor stock levels and expiration dates; and support the procurement, storage, and proper handling of laboratory materials and related documentation.
Investigate customer complaints and operational concerns by collecting field samples, performing or coordinating analytical testing, interpreting findings, and recommending appropriate corrective actions based on results.
Operate vehicles and travel to treatment facilities, field locations, and customer sites as required to collect samples, support investigations, and perform assigned technical duties.
Perform other related technical and laboratory support duties as assigned.