Laboratory Technician

Job Description

Position

Purpose:

This is a non-supervisory role which requires technical ability. The Laboratory Technician II performs sample collection, preparation, extraction, and analysis according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and permitting requirements while achieving integrity of the laboratory’s results and target KPIs. KPIs include safety, productivity, and quality of work performed. The incumbent maintains workspace, equipment, instrumentation, and incoming/outgoing sample inventory. The Incumbent develops and enhances effective troubleshooting skills and completes regular instrument maintenance and calibration procedures to enhance equipment reliability, efficiency, and accuracy.

The Laboratory Technician is expected to be proficient in the performance of testing and analysis as they progress within the laboratory which maintains a broad scope of analytical capabilities. May perform specialized analysis under the direction of the Special Projects Manager or designee in support and relation with applied quality assurance and control procedures. As requested, supports the training of new team members.

Primary Duties/Responsibilities:

• Proficient in all Lab Technician I essential duties and responsibilities.
• Sets up equipment and instrumentation required for tests, research, or process control following QA procedures.
• Cleans and makes minor repairs on laboratory apparatus and equipment and ensures a high standard of housekeeping, quality control and safety.
• Calibrates instrumentation as assigned, including performing daily temperature and balance checks.
• Performs routine cleaning and minor troubleshooting/repairs of online instrumentation in the treatment plant. Maintain proficiency of troubleshooting and maintenance of analytical equipment and documents in accordance with quality assurance and control compliance.
• Collects water samples in the field as assigned and performs routine tests such as turbidity, alkalinity, pH, coliform testing, TOC Analysis and residual chlorine.
• Records and computes results from test data and maintains quality control records and charts as assigned.
• Perform any sample preparation required to be sent to labs.
• Maintains adequate inventory of standards, reagents, glassware, consumable supplies, and chemical stores in the work area for use.
• Collects and logs all Safety Data Sheet (SDS) documents for chemical stores.
• May assist in other areas or with special projects directed.
• Supports other initiatives of the Plant to promote a healthy and positive work environment and enhance employee morale and engagement.
• Ensure proper written and electronic documentation of all test results including QA/QC and audits sample documents prior to approval and completeness of summarizing data.
• Able to function and produce at high levels with minimum supervision and able to do routine troubleshooting. Be able to identify and bring to the attention of management result anomalies in a timely manner and troubleshoot common mistakes that a Lab Technician I may not recognize.
• Models compliance with all work practices, policies and procedures.
• Must follow established operational, process control, safety and emergency response procedures, including completing annual safety inspections as assigned.
• Must adhere to specifications and production schedule.
• Assists in other areas of the plant as needed.
• May assist with orienting or training new or less experienced Lab Techs.

Work Environment:

• The facility operates on a 24/7 basis.
• Spends 100% of the time in the operations environment.
• Typically spends 25 – 35% of time exposed to outdoor and sometimes inclement weather.
• Company service vehicles are used as required.
• May serve rotational 24-hour emergency on-call.
• Possible Work Hazards:
  May be exposed to possible operations hazards including fumes, dust, toxic and caustic chemicals, noise, rotating machinery, high pressure and hot and cold temperatures, slippery surfaces, water and electrical hazards.

Education/Experience/Background:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology or a related science discipline - Preferred.
• Prior laboratory work experience of 1-2 years with ability to use laboratory…