Laboratory Analyst I / II at Palmdale Water District
100 Chemicals LLC · Palmdale, CA · 1 wk ago
Research$46.24–$52.33/hrFull-time
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
About the Role
To perform professional-level duties related to a variety of chemical, biochemical, and bacteriological water testing and analysis activities.
Distinguishing Characteristics
- Laboratory Analyst I – This is the entry-level class in the Laboratory Analyst series. Employees at this level perform routine tasks under general supervision while learning job tasks and may exercise limited independence. Employees may have limited or no directly related work experience.
- Laboratory Analyst II – This is the journey-level class within the Laboratory Analyst series. Employees at this level perform the full range of duties with only occasional instruction or assistance and are fully aware of operating procedures and policies. Positions are normally filled by advancement from the Laboratory Analyst I level.
Supervision Received and Exercised
- Laboratory Analyst I: Receives general supervision from the Water Quality/Regulatory Affairs Supervisor; may receive technical and functional supervision from a Laboratory Analyst II.
- Laboratory Analyst II: Receives direction from the Water Quality/Regulatory Affairs Supervisor; may exercise technical and functional supervision over a Laboratory Analyst I.
Responsibilities
- Test, analyze, and collect water samples from various sources, including raw ground and surface water, residential tap water, and treatment plant process control products.
- Assess chemical, biochemical, and bacteriological characteristics of samples to ensure compliance with State and Federal requirements.
- Recognize and troubleshoot problems in analytical procedures; identify possible issues affecting test results and recommend procedural changes as appropriate.
- Set up, calibrate, and operate a variety of laboratory equipment and instruments; perform routine servicing and preventive maintenance.
- Prepare standard chemical solutions, reagents, stains, and bacteriological media.
- Enter laboratory data into a computer system for analysis and reporting; maintain laboratory records and prepare required reports.
- Assist in maintaining adequate laboratory supplies and inventory; order supplies as assigned.
- Work with consultants or vendors as required.
- Test, analyze, and collect various granular activated carbon samples.
- Respond to public questions and complaints regarding water quality.
- Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other District employees, and the public using principles of good customer service.
- Perform related duties as assigned.
Requirements
Laboratory Analyst I
- Knowledge Of:
- Principles and practices of chemistry, bacteriology, and chemical sciences, including methods and techniques of laboratory testing and analysis.
- Modern laboratory procedures and equipment, including computer applications used in laboratory testing and analysis.
- Sample collection, monitoring procedures, and sample preservation methods related to water treatment processes.
- Modern office procedures, methods, and computer equipment, including word processing, database, and spreadsheet applications.
- Ability To:
- Perform professional-level duties related to chemical, biochemical, and bacteriological water testing and analysis.
- Analyze work papers, reports, and special projects; identify and interpret technical and numerical information.
- Prepare reagents; assemble and operate testing apparatus and equipment.
- Perform tests accurately and precisely and maintain associated records.
- Learn pertinent local, State, and Federal codes, regulations, and laws.
- Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Laboratory Analyst II
In addition to the qualifications for Laboratory Analyst I:
- Knowledge Of:
- Principles and practices of quality assurance and quality control and their applications to testing and analytical procedures.
- Pertinent local, State, and Federal codes, regulations, and laws.
- Ability To:
- Independently perform professional-level duties related to chemical, biochemical, and bacteriological water testing and analysis.
- Maintain laboratory personnel requirements according to 22 CCR 64812.00.
Qualifications
Experience and Training
Any combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.
- Laboratory Analyst I:
- Experience: No professional experience is required; one year of water treatment testing and analysis is desirable.
- Training: Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in chemistry, bacteriology, biology, or a related field or three years’ experience in water treatment or water distribution.
- Laboratory Analyst II:
- Experience: Two years of responsible journey-level experience performing duties similar to a Laboratory Analyst I.
- Training: Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in chemistry, bacteriology, biology, or a related field.
License and Certificate
- Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Driver’s License.
- Laboratory Analyst I:
- Possession of an American Water Works Association Water Quality Laboratory Analyst 1 Certificate is desirable.
- Possession of, or ability to obtain within six months, a State Water Resources Control Board Water Treatment Operator Grade 2 Certificate is required.
- Possession of, or ability to obtain within six months, a State Water Resources Control Board Water Distribution Operator Grade 2 Certification is required.
- Laboratory Analyst II:
- Possession of a State Water Resources Control Board Water Treatment Operator Grade 2 Certificate is required.
- Possession of a State Water Resources Control Board Water Distribution Operator Grade 2 Certificate is required.
Physical Requirements
- Continuously sit at a desk for long periods; intermittently bend, squat, climb, kneel, or twist while performing field sampling work.
- Intermittently twist to reach equipment surrounding the desk; perform simple grasping and fine manipulation.
- Use a telephone and write or use a keyboard to communicate through written means.
- Push, pull, lift, or carry weight up to 25 pounds.
- Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
- Operate a district vehicle.
Pay
- Laboratory Analyst I: $46.24–$52.33 hourly
- Laboratory Analyst II: $53.64–$60.68 hourly
Schedule
Full time, work at office, local area.