Laboratory/Field Technician - Laboratory

City of Sunnyvale•Sunnyvale, CA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The City of Sunnyvale is recruiting for a Laboratory Technician to join the Environmental Services Department team. This role involves working independently under the supervision of Senior Environmental Chemists, primarily collecting and analyzing samples for the Water Pollution Control Plant and the drinking water system. The laboratory performs various physical, chemical, biological, and bacteriological analyses to monitor operations and ensure compliance for the City's wastewater, drinking water, and industrial pretreatment programs. The Environmental Services Department is dedicated to providing comprehensive utility services and facilitating sustainability initiatives.

Requirements

An Associate degree or 60 semester units or 90 quarter units from an accredited college or university in environmental science, including courses in chemistry, biology or other related science, AND Two years of experience performing field technician and/or laboratory duties.
A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in environmental science, including courses in chemistry, biology or other related science may be substituted for one year of experience.
Basic chemistry principles and/or basic laboratory testing methods.
Sampling techniques and chain of custody procedures.
Basic principles of potable water, wastewater and/or industrial waste pretreatment.
Field and laboratory safety practices and procedures.
Recordkeeping techniques.
Office methods, procedures, software and equipment.
Collect samples in the field.
Conduct chemical tests and analysis.
Use potable water and/or wastewater monitoring equipment.
Maintain accurate data and keep detailed records.
Develop precise and detailed statistical information, charts and data files.
Read and interpret complex technical documents and instructions.
Safely work with and around wastewater, industrial wastes and hazardous substances and in the immediate vicinity of chemicals and reactive agents used in industrial waste treatment.
Carry out specific functions in the laboratory.
Follow instructions and procedures.
Interpret tests appropriately and convey results clearly.
Convey technical information to supervisor, professional and field personnel.
Operate a computer using word processing and business software and other office equipment.
Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Establish and maintain and promote positive and effective working relationships with employees, other agencies, public officials and the public.
Demonstrate initiative and exercise good judgment in the performance of duties.
Work independently and as a team member; recognize and set priorities and meet deadlines.
Observe safety principles and work in a safe manner.
Wear protective clothing and use protective equipment.
Travel to sites within the City to conduct monitoring and sampling programs.
Possession and continued maintenance of a valid class C California driver's license and a safe driving record.

Nice To Haves

A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in chemistry, environmental science or a related field.

Responsibilities

Collects samples from locations within the Water Pollution Control Plant for operational decisions regarding treatment or process control in accordance with Federal, State and Local requirements.
Collects samples from drinking water sources within the City's water distribution system for laboratory analysis, ensuring compliance with Federal, State and Local requirements.
Collects samples from receiving waters in proximity to the Water Pollution Control Plant via boat.
Performs physical, chemical and bacteriological analyses of potable water, wastewater or industrial waste samples using analytical techniques or instruments in accordance with approved protocols or methods in the field or the laboratory.
Maintains records of physical, chemical and bacteriological tests performed on samples.
Reviews logbooks, field data, recordings, and other documentation related to the drinking water system discharges from the Water Pollution Control Plant, and industrial and commercial sites.
Keeps detailed and accurate records of field activities and observations, using logbooks, laboratory analysis sheets and computerized software programs.
Performs work assignments in accordance with appropriate safety rules, regulations and, when necessary, emergency procedures.
Maintains field equipment and vehicles for daily use in the field; operates motor vehicles to access sampling sites for collection of samples.
Assists laboratory and inspection staff with special assignments, under direction of assigned supervisor.
Attends staff and professional meetings, training classes and workshops.
Responds and assists in development of analytical test methods, monitoring techniques and other laboratory/monitoring services.
Cleans laboratory equipment and glassware and maintains such in a neat and orderly condition.
Performs preventive maintenance on laboratory equipment and instruments; calibrates and certifies safety equipment for proper usage and keeps detailed records on each piece.
Prepares reagents, solutions, and media for chemical and bacteriological analyses.
Participates in quality assurance and quality control programs required to maintain lab certification with Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (ELAP).