Water Quality Analyst, Assistant

Overview

Seattle Public Utilities' Water Quality Lab Division is seeking a Water Quality Analyst to help ensure compliance with regulatory monitoring for drinking water sample analysis. The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting testing on various water sources to ensure water quality and for ensuring compliance with regulatory rules such as the Total Coliform Rule and the Surface Water Treatment Rule.

This position reports to the Microbiology Supervisor.

• Performs routine bacteriological analysis of drinking water samples following standard procedures and methods.
• Operates, maintains, troubleshoots, and calibrates laboratory instrumentation and field equipment.
• Collects water samples from watershed, treatment plants, transmission and distribution mains, reservoirs, tanks, standpipes, and customer locations.
• Utilizes Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and handheld scanners for data management and collection.
• Performs field tests including chlorine residual and temperature measurements.
• Evaluates test results for compliance with State and Federal drinking water standards.
• Trains Water Laboratory Technicians.
• Supports weekend and holiday rotation schedule.
• Troubleshoots quality control failures and recommends corrective actions.
• Maintains Department of Health laboratory certification.
• Participates in performance evaluation programs.

Experience: Six months’ experience as Water Lab Technician including some computer experience, and either of the following educational requirements:

• For Chemistry, 36 quarter hours or 24 semester hours of college level classes.
• For Microbiology, 30 quarter hours or 20 semester hours of college level classes.

Education/

Experience:

Other combinations of education, training and experience will be evaluated on an individual basis for comparability.

Will be required to work evenings, weekends and/or holidays. May be exposed to fumes and heat during sterilizations of lab ware. When in the field, may be exposed to all types of weather conditions and hazardous traffic situations. Field work may include water quality monitoring activities on boats and around bodies of water.

• Handling and analysis of water samples and potentially hazardous substances
• Standing for extended periods during analytical procedures
• Adherence to strict safety protocols and use of personal protective equipment (PPE)

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds of equipment.
• Good physical stamina for field work and laboratory tasks.
• Comfortable working on boats and near water bodies.

Washington State driver's license or evidence of equivalent mobility.

• Proficiency in microbiological testing techniques and water sampling methods.
• An Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Biology, Environmental Science, or related field.
• Experience with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and field data collection tools.
• Knowledge of state and federal drinking water standards and regulations.
• Ability to interpret test results and troubleshoot quality control issues.
• Physical capability to work in laboratory and field environments, including on watercraft.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in a diverse team.
• Flexibility to work rotating schedules, including weekends and holidays.
• Commitment to safety protocols and quality assurance practices in a laboratory setting.
• Alignment with SPU Workplace Expectations and values:
  Safety, Respect, Diversity.

Please fully complete an online application. Do not attach resumes and cover letters, as they will not be considered in the review of the candidate’s qualifications.

If selected for an interview, you will need to submit unofficial transcripts to verify your completion of the required microbiology coursework.

• On-site, full-time position at our Water Quality Lab in Seattle, WA (no remote work option).
• Dynamic split schedule: 50% laboratory work, 50% field work.
• Individual schedules arranged in collaboration with supervisor.
• Weeken…