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City of Watsonville

Water Quality Chemist

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What they do

A Chemistry Laboratory Supervisor supervises operations and experiments in a chemistry research laboratory. Oversees and provides technical direction to lab staff. Manages lab safety and maintains records. Maintains inventories of chemicals and supplies.

$97,362 / year median in California

+9% projected growth

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Job Description

This recruitment will be used to establish an employment list for future vacancies.
DEFINITION
To safely and effectively direct and participate in the performance of a variety of laboratory analyses in support of the Public Works and Utilities Department, and to maintain the laboratory and its equipment in proper working order; to perform qualitative and quantitative analyses of drinking water, groundwater, wastewater, and sludge samples.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
This job class functions at an advanced journey/lead level of classification and is responsible for training, directing, coordinating, and monitoring others in a lead capacity.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives limited supervision from the Laboratory Manager and Wastewater Treatment Facilities Manager. Exercises lead supervision over the Water Quality Laboratory Technician, and subordinate staff.
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES
- Duties may include but are not limited to the following: Performs and coordinates the performance of a variety of laboratory chemical, biological, and bacteriological analyses to determine wastewater treatment compliance with state and federal agency requirements and for process control Performs chemical and bacteriological analyses for the Water Division and chemical analyses and gas analysis for the Solid Waste Division Prepares technical reports and correspondence Maintains the laboratory and equipment in a clean, neat, and orderly condition; performs quality assurance tests Performs qualitative and quantitative analyses of drinking water, groundwater, wastewater and sludge samples Maintains a variety of records related to laboratory tests, operations and sample control; prepares daily and periodic reports on lab data Collects samples and maintains sampling equipment Inputs, accesses and analyzes data using a computer Develops new analytical laboratory procedures Trains, directs, and monitors the work of plant operations and laboratory technicians in proper and safe laboratory procedures, operations, and analyses Requisitions laboratory supplies Keeps abreast of technical changes in equipment and procedures Prepares chemical reagents, lab supplies, and glassware for use in analyses Performs related duties similar to the above in scope and function as required
EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS
Knowledge of:
general principles and methods of chemical, biological, and bacteriological tests commonly performed for water/wastewater analyses laboratory safety and equipment care and maintenance chemicals and equipment used in water quality analyses working knowledge of current chemical laboratory procedures, methods, equipment, facilities and materials chemical, physical and bacteriological characteristics of drinking water, groundwater, influents, effluents, and drainage waters Ability to: perform a variety of laboratory tests involving the chemical, physical, and biological analyses of water and sludge operate, maintain, and calibrate analytical instruments and equipment determine appropriate sampling procedures interpret laboratory data as acquired prepare testing media and reagents keep accurate and legible records and prepare clear, concise reports train, direct, and monitor the work of others in a lead capacity gather appropriate samples for testing and analyses bend, stoop, and squat to gather samples climb stairs and ladders use fine hand manipulation; use a keyboard effectively and tactfully communicate in both oral and written forms intermittently twist to reach equipment surrounding work area and to gather samples distinguish colors of certain fluids hear adequately to converse on a telephone and in person work indoors using near vision for prolonged periods work outside, walking on uneven ground work with chemicals, influent, bacteria, and landfill gas drive an automobile climb stairs establish and maintain effective work relationships with those contacted in the performance of required duties
TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
Any combination of training and experience, which would provide the required knowledge and abilities, is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be: Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry, or a closely related science; and Two years experience in a water, wastewater or related laboratory, performing chemical, physical and/or biological analyses
LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION A
valid Class C California Driver's license, including a safe driving record A Grade II Laboratory Analyst Certificate issued by the California Water Environment Association or equivalent may be substituted for a Bachelor's Degree The candidate will be appointed for a 12-month probationary period. Names of successful candidates who do not receive a job offer will be placed on an employment list which normally remains effective for one year. The Human Resources Department may abolish an Employment list at any time the needs of the City so require. This position is represented by the Operating Engineers Local Union No.3 bargaining group. Prior to appointment to the position of Water Quality Chemist, a medical examination and Department of Justice Livescan fingerprinting will be required. The City of Watsonville is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages workplace diversity. The City of Watsonville is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act by including people with disabilities in all of its programs and activities.
NOTE:
THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A CONTRACT, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AND ANY PROVISIONS CONTAINED IN THIS BULLETIN MAY BE MODIFIED OR REVISED WITHOUT
NOTICE.