Lab Technician

POSITION PURPOSE

The purpose of this position is to perform laboratory analyses with a high degree of competency according to Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Natural Resources approved methodology, and in compliance with standard operating procedures. General laboratory upkeep of equipment and facilities.

• Wet chemistry analyses including but not limited to Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), solids, phosphorus, nitrogen, chlorine, pH, etc.
• Bacteriological enumeration testing
• Perform assays of plant process control chemicals.
• Conduct microbial examination of activated sludge.
• Prepare analytical reagents, standards, and culture media.
• Collect and preserve laboratory samples using proper chain of custody protocol.
• Process samples through laboratory information management system (LIMS) – login, batching, data entry and review.
• Validate accurate readings from temperature monitoring devices.
• Maintain neat and accurate laboratory bench sheets and records, including chemical traceability, equipment logs, etc.
• Verify quality assurance of all data submitted; recognizes non-conformance/out of tolerance and documents corrective action
• Perform routine quality checks of laboratory equipment and periodic preventative maintenance
• Assist in coordination and preparation of samples for contract lab analysis
• Maintain and routinely clean laboratory equipment and work area.
• Perform clerical tasks including but not limited to filing, data entry and replying to internal and external inquiries via phone or email.
• Adhere to all safety procedures as defined by the Utility work and safety rules and the Laboratory Chemical Hygiene Plan.
• Assist other laboratory or utility personnel as needed.

• Must be able to work a rotating weekend, holiday schedule and emergency standby calls. Emergency standby calls are not scheduled in advance, rather weather dependent.

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university of recognized standing in a relevant scientific discipline (chemistry, biology, life sciences, water resources, etc.)
• Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Basic General Wastewater Operator and Laboratory Subgrade (L) certification required within one year of hire.
• A valid state-issued driver's license.

• Knowledge of basic laboratory principles, techniques, terminology and equipment.
• Ability to consistently perform laboratory tests within established quality control criteria.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills, with particular attention to detail
• Ability to independently manage workload according to established procedures, sample hold times, and Laboratory Director assigned due dates.

Advancement from the Technician to Technologist level.

• Three years satisfactory performance as a laboratory technician or equivalent certified laboratory experience.
• Demonstrated progressive knowledge and skill regarding analytical methodology, instrument operation, recognition of sample characteristics, troubleshooting routine QC failures and subsequent corrective action, and trend analysis in data sets.
• Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Basic General Wastewater and Basic Laboratory Subgrade (L) certification required within one year.
• Proficiency in microbial identification methodology and causation.
• Documentation of successful Initial Demonstration of Capability (IDC) in all above listed test parameters.

Language and Interpersonal Communication.

• Ability to analyze and categorize data and information in order to determine the relationship of the data with reference to established criteria/standards. Ability to compare, count, differentiate, classify, compute, tabulate, measure and/or sort data, as well as assemble, copy and record and transcribe data and information.
• Ability to utilize, interpret, and apply a variety of advisory data and information such as lab test results records and reports, charts, graphs, quality assurance documents, laboratory certification manuals, testing protocol and standards, federal and state lab operating and reporting regulations and guidelines, SDS, scientific supply catalogs, technical…