Water Treatment Plant Lab Tech

To perform all laboratory analysis in accordance with the State of Tennessee Department of Health, Department of Environment and Conservation, the Standard Methods, and the Environmental Protection Agency. Perform quality assurance on all laboratory analysis and record keeping. Works on an assigned shift, performs routine tasks in the operation of a water treatment plant laboratory. Performs specialized and complex chemical, bacteriological and physical test for the Water Plant.

• Makes regular inspections of plant and equipment to ascertain that it is always in proper operation.
• Operates treatment facilities to control flow and processing of raw water, and effluent.
• Monitors gauges, meters, and control panels and keeps logs of readings.
• Reports needs for major equipment repair.
• Observes variations in operating conditions and interprets meter and gauge readings and test results to determine processing requirements.
• Cleans and performs routine maintenance tasks on building and grounds.
• Keeps records and makes reports.
• Washes and performs maintenance on plant lab equipment.
• Operates valves and gates either manually or by remote control.
• Start and stop pumps, engines and generators to control and adjust flow and treatment process.
• Extracts samples and performs routine laboratory tests and analyses.
• Prepares all lab media, sterilization of lab equipment.
• Properly takes samples, fills out paperwork to be submitted to the State.
• Performs analysis on bacteriological samples.
• Must be meticulous and detail oriented and follow protocol as stated in laboratory QA Plan.
• Answers customer complaints while securing samples.
• Routinely deals with the public handling customer concerns and taking field samples.
• Other related duties as assigned.

• Knowledge of modern water treatment plant operating practices.
• Ability to inspect plant machinery and online measuring equipment in operation and detect flaws.
• Ability to keeps accurate records and make reports.
• Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with the public and other employees. Knowledge of Rules of Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation Bureau of Environment Division of Water Supply Regulations for Public Water Systems.
• Ability to apply common-sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.
• Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
• Knowledge of water treatment processes and chemical, biological, or bacteriological action involved in each process.
• Knowledge of pertinent local, state, and federal regulations and requirements.
• Ability to work on own initiative and establish proper testing procedures.
• Ability to organize and interpret data and transmit instructions.
• Knowledge of the principles of chemistry, biology and bacteriology.
• Ability to evaluate and interpret technical data, prepare reports, and maintain communications with personnel and co-workers.
• Ability to understand chemical, biological and bacteriological processes pertinent to water treatment and possess sound knowledge of problems and processes involved.
• Knowledge of the functions and mechanics of water treatment plant machinery and equipment, and of its servicing and maintenance requirements.
• Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with subordinates and other employees.
• Ability to deal effectively with the public.

To perform this job successfully, and individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed in job description are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.

Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.

A high school diploma or GED is required. Bachelor’s degree in biology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Geology, Physical Science or related field from an accredited university is strongly preferred.

Experience with in the water/wastewater industry will be considered.