Laboratory Analyst II

Charlotte Water Department is seeking a detail-oriented professional to analyze drinking water, wastewater, industrial discharges, surface water, and storm water samples in support of public health, environmental protection, and regional economic vitality. This role ensures compliance with state and federal regulations, including the Safe Drinking Water Act and the Clean Water Act.

About the role

This position within the Organics Section involves sample preparation, data analysis, instrumentation operation, and documentation to maintain defensible records. Responsibilities include adhering to quality assurance procedures, training new personnel, and safely handling hazardous materials. The role supports a large municipal utility by ensuring accurate and timely analysis of samples.

Responsibilities

• Perform sample preparation and analysis using EPA methods (e.g., 1664, 524.2, 624.1, 625, 608.3, 8260, 8270, 533, 537.1, 1633) according to approved SOPs and QA procedures, maintaining sample integrity and chain of custody.
• Schedule analyses to comply with lab policies on method hold times and turnaround times.
• Prepare standards and reagents, calibrate, operate, and maintain analytical instruments (e.g., GC/MS, GC-ECD, LC-MS/MS), including preventative and corrective maintenance.
• Evaluate data for compliance with permit requirements and water quality standards; review laboratory data for accuracy and clarity, identifying anomalies or trends and reporting deficiencies.
• Maintain thorough documentation, including case narratives and supporting data, ensuring adherence to methods, SOPs, QA procedures, and the Chemical Hygiene Plan.
• Record observations, calculations, and results accurately and neatly.
• Assist in implementing new methods and equipment, ensuring compliance with safety and quality control requirements.
• Train co-workers in analytical procedures and related duties.
• Participate in audits and inspections, ensuring corrective actions are taken.
• Safely handle hazardous chemical and biological solutions/samples.
• Comply with centralized ordering and inventory procedures.
• Follow safety protocols and conduct scheduled safety checks.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a scientific field from an accredited institution.
• Two (2) years of related work experience, preferably in a certified environmental laboratory.

Certifications

• FEMA NIMS/ICS 100, 200, 700, and 800 (or obtain within 6 months of hire).
• NC Wastewater Analyst Certification I, II, and III (or obtain within five years of hire).
• NC Waterworks Operators Association Certification for Total Coliforms and E. coli.
• Additional certifications based on area of work.

Skills

• Knowledge of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) software and common office software.
• Familiarity with local, state, and federal regulations related to laboratory services.
• Understanding of chemistry, microbiology, environmental engineering, and statistics.
• Proficiency in sampling and laboratory protocols.
• Skill in operating, calibrating, maintaining, and troubleshooting specialized laboratory equipment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to create and interpret spreadsheets, charts, and graphs.
• Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and a methodical approach to work.
• Time management, prioritization, and independent judgment.
• Ability to follow SOPs, reference methods, and instructions.
• Ability to analyze and interpret analytical data.

Physical Demands

The work is classified as medium, requiring the ability to apply 30 pounds of force frequently and exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally. Additional physical abilities include:

• Prolonged standing and/or sitting, walking, balancing, climbing, stooping, crouching, kneeling.
• Grasping, handling, lifting, manual dexterity, feeling, pulling, pushing, reaching, repetitive motion.
• Speaking, perceiving sounds at normal speaking levels, distinguishing among sounds.
• Mental acuity, visual acuity for data, color, observations, and instrumentation.

Work Environment

• Work is performed in a dynamic environment requiring adaptability to changing goals, priorities, and needs.
• Relatively safe, secure, and stable work environment.
• Occasional on-call work, nights, weekends, and overtime beyond 40 hours per week.

Pay

$66,525.30 - $73,916.99 annually.