General Definition of Work

Performs intermediate technical work involving the chemical and biological analysis of water and wastewater; does related work as required. Work is performed under the regular supervision of the Laboratory Supervisor.

Essential Functions/Typical Tasks

Testing and analyzing water and wastewater samples for compliance with Federal and State regulations; maintaining records; preparing reports; responds to customer concerns regarding water quality.(The following tasks are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.)

• Conducts regular and special collection and chemical analysis of samples of water and wastewater to determine the efficiency of treatment operations and chemical constituents and for compliance with federal and state regulations. Performs physical and chemical analysis to include analytical methods.
• Calibrates and adjusts laboratory equipment to meet regulatory requirements. Interprets test results and formulates recommendations for plant operations.
• Collects random water and wastewater samples.
• Performs chemical and biological tests, including bacteria count, coli form check, turbidity, color, alkalinity, pH, CO2, chlorine residual, temperature and fluoride, performs various chemical tests associated with water quality analysis.
• Ensures samples are properly preserved, packaged and shipped.
• Maintains proper chain of custody of samples; ensures all samples are documented.
• Performs quality control on new lab chemicals and supplies and on analysis.
• Records data on lab analysis bench sheets; completes maintenance work orders.
• Enters data on plant performance reports.
• Prepares lab operating procedures and chemical hygiene plan.
• Responds to customer complaints; takes samples and conducts necessary tests.
• Places orders for laboratory supplies and chemicals.
• Performs related tasks as required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• General knowledge of the principles of organic and inorganic chemistry including qualitative and quantitative analysis;
• general knowledge of modern chemical laboratory procedures, techniques and equipment and skill in their use;
• general knowledge of chemistry and biochemistry as applied to water/wastewater treatment;
• ability to perform research work on problems of a chemical nature;
• ability to prepare clear and accurate reports;
• ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates.

Requirements

Education and Experience

• Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited community college with major course work in the biological sciences or chemistry and some laboratory experience.

Special Requirements

• Possession of an appropriate driver's license valid in the State of North Carolina.
• Possession of or ability to obtain Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade I Certificate issued by the State of North Carolina within six months of employment.

The City of New Bern is an Equal Opportunity Employer.