Laboratory Technician - Water Laboratory

Job Title

Performs physical, chemical, and microbiological testing to ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations in support of water and wastewater plants and landfill locations.

Essential Functions These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position.

• Properly collects, evaluates, analyzes, and interprets scientific and technical data and accurately prepares applicable reports.
• Conducts routine and special collection and analyses of samples of various types (surface water, ground water, drinking water, wastewater, reclaimed water, etc.) from various locations (Lake Manatee Watershed, Lake Manatee Reservoir, East County wellfield, monitoring wells, distribution system, storage facilities, treatment plants, etc.).
• Performs chemical and mathematical calculations.
• Prepares microbiological media and chemical reagents.
• Maintains detailed records and reports of work performed and results obtained.
• Performs bacteriological monitoring of the potable water system in accordance with the Total Coliform Rule (USEPA).
• Follows TNI Standard quality assurance requirements for sampling and analyses as set forth by regulatory agencies (FDOH, FDEP and USEPA) and department operating requirements.
• Depending on area of assignment, may performs site visits to investigate and resolves customer inquiries and complaints concerning water quality.
• Communicates results of investigation to customer in a timely manner.
• Calibrates, operates, and maintains field sampling and analytical equipment including sampling pumps, depth samplers, automatic sampling stations, dissolved oxygen meters, conductivity meters, pH meters, multi-parameter in-situ water quality meters, field turbidimeters, and residual chlorine meters.
• Maintains and calibrates laboratory equipment, including nutrient auto analyzer, total organic carbon analyzer, ion chromatograph, pH meter, turbidimeter, conductivity meter, spectrophotometer, and micropipettes, following standard operating procedures in accordance with the Laboratory Q.A. schedule.
• Follows all established safety standards and procedures.
• Maintains knowledge and understanding of current best practices, trends, laws, and issues affecting area of expertise.
• Upon approval, attends educational events that will increase professional knowledge and be otherwise beneficial to the County.
• Performs other related duties as assigned, including participation in emergency or disaster response activities, as required and consistent with the employee's qualifications, essential job functions, and applicable federal and Florida law.

Bachelor's degree in natural science, chemistry, biology, environmental science, or a closely related field. One (1) or more years of experience working in a laboratory setting, preferably an environmental laboratory. Valid driver license required with valid Florida driver license required within 30 days of hire. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Experience working with Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) highly desired. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Able to organize own work and prioritize tasks, adjust to competing and changing priorities, and meet deadlines. Accurate, detail-oriented, and organized. Able to resolve routine situations and problems. Basic knowledge and understanding of current laboratory techniques, practices, and procedures. Basic knowledge and understanding of regulatory compliance necessary to successfully perform job duties. Basic knowledge and understanding of computer applications and software programs required to perform job duties.

Good written and verbal communication skills and interpersonal skills in order to deal professionally and effectively with co-workers, management, and other stakeholders. Able to explain facts, policies, and practices. Work is closely supervised.

In accordance with Florida Statute 295.07, F.S., Chapter 55A-7, priority consideration in employment will be given to eligible veterans and spouses of disabled veterans. Applicants claiming preference must provide a DD Form 214 or other acceptable documentation with their application. We are committed to honoring the service and sacrifices of our veterans and their families.

Manatee County Government is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you require any accommodations to participate in the recruitment process, please contact Human Resources at  x 3865.

Manatee County Government is a drug-free workplace in accordance with Federal and Florida Law.

All employees may be required to work before, during, or after an emergency. During an emergency, employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal…