Chemist

Overview

Water and Wastewater Chemists conduct analytical testing of water and wastewater samples from source water, groundwater, storm water, industrial discharges, septic systems, public sewer, and plant treatment units such as clarifiers and digesters. Lab testing is performed according to US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved analytical methods for environmental compliance reporting and plant treatment process control. Regulation is by the Safe Drinking Water Act for Water Treatment and the Clean Water Act for Wastewater Treatment.

Both labs adhere to industry standard quality control criteria and are routinely audited by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for compliance with state permit requirements. This is an intermediate laboratory position.

• Knowledge of Laboratory Technician Water or Wastewater analyses and responsibilities.
• Train, supervise, and review the work of Laboratory Technicians.
• Perform advanced water or wastewater analyses with associated method detection determinations, reagent, standard, and sample preparation.
• Operate and maintain advanced computer controlled analytical systems.
• Use computer spreadsheets, perform mathematical calculations, and verify instrument results.
• Evaluate analytical data for accuracy, precision, historical consistency, and permit compliance and produce client/project reports.
• Serve as Maintenance or Safety/QC Officer and assist with Chemical Hygiene Plan and QA/QC Manual updates.
• Inventory monitoring, purchasing, and credit card maintenance.
• Effectively diagnose lab process and equipment problems as needed.
• Document malfunctions or abnormal results and schedule repairs/re-analysis as needed.
• Demonstrate proficient communication and customer service skills.
• Assist staff with daily routines and cover Lab Technician workload when needed.
• Assist with maintenance of lab records archive (training, equipment checks and logs, QC charts, analytical reports, sample counts, safety checks, chemical SDS books, etc.).
• Assist with analytical method interpretations, update reviews, and developing lab procedures.
• Assist Laboratory Services Coordinator as needed for effective laboratory performance.
• Perform related duties as required.

Education:

Completion of a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, microbiology or a related field with an additional one to three years of laboratory experience; or any combination of relevant education and experience which provides the following:

Preferred majors: environmental science, chemistry, biology, water/wastewater treatment, wildlife/natural resource management or remediation, field sampling, statistical quality control, natural science, technology, engineering, or closely related major.

Valid Current Driver’s License

Passing of Criminal History Check and Drug Screen

• This position has been determined to have close contact with, or control of Critical Infrastructure components. This position is subject to extensive background checks and random drug screening.

• The water or wastewater treatment process and related environmental regulations;
• Plant process control and state permit analytical requirements;
• Laboratory operations, equipment, and safety protocols;
• Sample receiving and chain of custody procedures;
• Safe sample and chemical handling, storage, and disposal;
• Basic and advanced water or wastewater testing parameters and methods;
• Analytical quality control measures and peer review process.

• Exercise ethical integrity in all aspects of work performance;
• Readily adapt to changes in procedures, workstations, and work schedules;
• Learn and follow laboratory procedures as instructed;
• Multi-task, manage workloads, and cross train as needed.

• Frequently walk and stand during a shift;
• Occasionally bend and kneel during the shift;
• Occasionally rotate upper trunk to the right or left while sitting or standing;
• Place arms above, at, or below shoulder height;
• Eye/hand coordination for accurate reagent and sample preparation and effective use of analytical equipment;
• Push and pull carts containing samples, reagents, equipment, or supplies;
• Frequently lift and carry up to 10 pounds;
• Occasionally lift and move up to 40 pounds;
• Occasionally climb ladders and stairs.