Laboratory Technician

Largo

1d • $24

About The Position

Skilled technical and analytical work in an environmental laboratory and in field settings, performing chemical and bacteriological analyses. Applies proper laboratory techniques and follows established policies and procedures, analyzing wastewater, surface water, and groundwater for water quality monitoring and compliance purposes. Position reports to Environmental Compliance Supervisor.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree (Bachelor’s degree preferred) in Chemistry, Environmental Sciences, or a closely related field, and one (1) year of analytical work or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
• Valid Driver's License
• Ability to adhere to the National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (NELAP) quality control requirements and the ability to perform NELAP certified work with accuracy and precision
• Knowledge of chemistry principles & microbiological practices, proper lab techniques, quality control measures, and common laboratory practices
• Knowledge of occupational safety standards and the ability to conduct lab and field work safely
• Ability to organize, schedule, and manage multiple laboratory tasks in an organized and effective manner
• Ability to perform a variety of detailed laboratory functions, procedures, and techniques
• Must possess strong organizational, verbal, and written skills
• Ability to modify and manipulate MS Excel spreadsheets, MS Word documents, and various laboratory software programs
• Ability to input, access, retrieve, and customize data from a computer using laboratory information management software, various instrument software programs, and spreadsheets
• Ability to read and understand legal/technical/scientific documents
• Ability to perform mathematical calculations
• Team Members in this position must be able to work weekend and/or holiday shifts, 365 days per year
• Able to reliably meet established analytical data quality measures with consistently high levels of accuracy and precision
• Determines which procedure to follow when test results deviate from routine established standards; prepares detailed documentation and corrective actions if needed

Nice To Haves

• Experience with water quality standards, water treatment principles & practices, NPDES permitting, TNI, and/or wastewater lab methods preferred
• Experience working in a NELAP-certified laboratory is preferred

Responsibilities

• Programs, calibrates, and maintains field equipment and laboratory instrumentation; performs preventative maintenance and programs field autosamplers
• Performs bacteriological and chemical analyses of water samples, including wastewater, throughout various stages of the treatment process
• Maintains detailed test records in hard copy and electronic copy, and uses the LIMS database; gathers water quality field data using portable meters, and performs sample collection following approved Florida Department of Environmental Protection methods
• Ensures that lab operations adhere to the comprehensive Quality Assurance Manual, providing data that is reliable, scientifically valid, and legally defensible; protects data integrity by performing analytical activities that meet strict ethical codes of conduct
• Collects samples from various sites and transports them to the lab for testing
• Responsible for the cleaning, maintenance, and organization of the laboratory
• Performs a variety of analytical tests using a variety of software
• Inputs, accesses, and retrieves data from a computer; compiles and prepares data, extrapolating values, as needed
• Tracks, monitors, and maintains periodic Quality Control tasks; meets quality control acceptance criteria and completes tasks within mandated deadlines
• Ensures data integrity by performing analytical activities in adherence to strict ethical codes of conduct
• Performs quality control testing on new materials upon receipt; ensures that compliance criteria are met prior to approving items for use
• Actively stays current and up to date with the latest industry and laboratory standards
• Maintains group memberships and participates in workshops and training sessions
• Maintains an adequate stock of supplies by performing regularly scheduled inventory audits and forecasting future supply needs; informs supervisor when supplies are needed
• Participates with proficiency testing, internal audits, SOP review, and laboratory assessments for accreditation
• Evaluates and monitors sample results, notifying the supervisor of abnormalities or potential trends
• Ensures the completion and accuracy of all lab documents by properly recording data and maintaining logbooks and bench sheets
• Maintains open communication with plant operations regarding plant activity and potential analytical impacts, coordinates changes to sample collection days, times, and locations
• Supports honest and transparent decision-making
• Ability to speak in front of small groups, lead safety team meetings, and provide instructional tours of the laboratory and wastewater treatment plant
• Able to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing
• Maintains an effective working relationship with others and completes shared tasks effectively
• Strong communication skills and the ability to transfer work tasks to the team in a thorough and concise manner
• Collaborates with all team members in a way that builds upon ideas and takes personal accountability and ownership of projects, roles, and assignments
• Openly exhibits a positive attitude, in words and action, and encourages others to do the same
• Performs related work as required.

Benefits

• Team Members enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, wellness, and financial security of our team members.
• Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; wellness programs; Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) or Health Savings Accounts (HSA); paid life insurance; and AD&D coverage, with optional supplemental life insurance available.
• Full-time team members participate in a Defined Contribution 401(a) Plan with a generous City match.
• All team members may enroll in optional Deferred Compensation 457(b) and/or Roth 457(b) plans.
• Additional benefits include 11 paid holidays, 24/7 access to fitness centers, tuition reimbursement, and ongoing professional development opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree