Laboratory Scientist

Laboratory Scientist

Laboratory scientists in water/wastewater work involve performing a variety of standardized chemical tests, physical tests, and interpretation of moderately complex microbiological analyses to determine required treatment of potable, industrial, wastewater, and sludge samples. They operate, calibrate, and maintain laboratory equipment, maintain proper quality control/quality assurance, and work safely following City guidelines for safety. They enter data into the LIMS systems, recommend improvements in work procedures, methods, and reporting forms, prepare bacteriological media, perform quality control procedures on media prepared in house and purchased commercially, adhere to all federal, state, and local mandates regarding sample collection, analyses, and reporting of data, prepare and certify standards and other reagents, participate in and successfully pass the proficiency testing, and may be instrumental participants in a certified microbiological laboratory.

They are responsible for sample collection, sample analysis, and reporting of compliance data to the EPA/DHH/DEQ, analyze waters for the presence of pathogens and other bacteria, coordinate with Operation's personnel to optimize plant performance, and perform other duties as assigned or required. They maintain job safety standards, comply with City of Shreveport vehicle safety rules, and regularly attend required safety, job-related, and certification training as required.

• A bachelor's degree in chemistry, microbiology, biology, or a closely related field.
• Facility with form perception to recognize physical and chemical differences in materials and eye-hand coordination.
• Possess data handling skills, including facility with Microsoft Office or similar programs, generating emails, as well as laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
• Ability to prepare written reports and perform basic mathematical calculations accurately.
• Valid State Vehicle Operator's license.
• Ability to become knowledgeable of quantitative laboratory analysis including legal chain of custody and quality control.
• Amiss Plant Assignment
  - Hold or be able to obtain Class 2 Water Production, Water Treatment, and Water Distribution Certificates issued by the State of Louisiana, Dept. of Health and Hospitals within 3 years.
• Lucas Plant Assignment
  - Hold or be able to obtain a Class 2 Wastewater Treatment Certificate issued by the State of Louisiana, Dept. of Health and Hospitals within 3 years.

Physical Requirements: Tasks involve the regular and, at times, sustained performance of moderately physically demanding work, typically involving some combination of climbing and balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling, and that may involve the lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling of moderately heavy objects and materials (10-20 pounds). Jobs must be performed with or without accommodations.

Work Environment: Tasks are performed with risk of exposure to adverse environmental conditions, such as temperature and noise extremes, wetness, humidity, toxic/poisonous agents, and strong odors. Requires the ability to perceive and discriminate colors or shades of colors. Requires the ability to perceive and discriminate odors. Must be able to communicate orally and perceive and discriminate sounds. Tasks require visual perception and discrimination.

The City of Shreveport offers many benefits including vacation and sick leave, health, dental, and vision insurance, 10 paid holidays per calendar year, and long term disability.