Laboratory Analyst I / II at Palmdale Water District

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.
• 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 occasional instruction and are fully aware of operating procedures and policies.

Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the Laboratory Analyst I level.

Supervision

• 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 issues affecting test results and recommend procedural changes.
• 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 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 laboratory testing and analysis methods.
• Modern laboratory procedures and equipment, including computer applications used in laboratory testing.
• Sample collection, monitoring procedures, and 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; 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.

Experience and Training:

Any combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

• 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 of experience in water treatment or water distribution.

License and Certificate:

• Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Driver’s License.
• Possession of an American Water Works Association Water Quality Laboratory Analyst I Certificate is desirable.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain within six months, a State Water Resources Control Board Water Treatment Operator Grade 2 certification 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

In addition to the qualifications for the 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.

Experience and Training:

Any combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

• 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.
• 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

Hourly wage: $46.24–$60.68

Schedule

Full-time, work at office, local area.