Microbiology Analyst

About the role

The primary purpose of this position is to perform microbiology analyses on drinking water, waste water and biosolids according to method specification and client requirements.

Responsibilities

• Analyze drinking water, wastewater and sludge/solid samples for microbiological parameters such as coliform, E. coli, fecal coliforms, and standard plate count.
• Perform all quality control requirements associated with the microbiology methods and maintain appropriate records.
• Prioritize work by creating schedules to complete daily assignments and data review and reporting promptly.
• Interpret and author SOPs, perform reagent formulation, record bench level observations, and keep records in bound and electronic notebooks.
• Be responsive and responsible for meeting method holding times and incubation cycle times by pulling and interpreting media within method prescribed parameters.
• Maintains production levels on a daily and weekly basis in order to meet client deadlines.
• Able to work independently with little supervision.
• Able to work in a team with co-workers and participate in schedule rotations as needed to meet microbiology department needs.
• Absorb and maintain a clean audit ready laboratory at all times.
• Ensure compliance with assigned SOP’s, QA manual and HSE policies.
• Recognize and maintain safe working conditions. Follow PPE policies. Handle hazardous material appropriately and safely.
• Maintain a clean, orderly work environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned and directed.

Requirements

• Experience in document control, the use of SOP’s, reagent formulation, and bench level observation and recordkeeping in bound and electronic notebooks.
• An understanding of basic quality assurance parameters specifically measure of precision and accuracy is preferred.
• Experience in the analysis of environmental samples for microbiological and wet chemistry parameters using EPA methodologies.
• Able to work independently with little supervision as well as the ability to work as a team, be a team player and support fellow co-workers.
• Produces quality, error free work.
• Attitude and cooperation – has an upbeat and positive attitude, offers ideas and solutions to correct problem areas.
• Solicits assistance when needed before a situation gets “out of hand”.
• Professional appearance and conduct to both ALS staff and clients.
• Diligent work ethic.
• Adaptable and able to change an approach or method quickly to fit different situations.
• Communicates information well to co-workers / team members to include all those involved in the decision-making process.
• Motivated and fast paced personality.
• Multi-tasked, organized, detail oriented, and possess excellent problem solving capabilities; will have good time management capabilities.
• Must be dependable and reliable.
• Able to learn new software/computer systems for inventory management.
• Able to work overtime when needed.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor of Science in Biology or a related field or previous laboratory experience is preferred.
• Computer skills, Microsoft programs.

Physical Demands

• The ability to stand, bend and sit for 100% of shift.
• Able to speak and hear clearly while communicating with staff, management and clients.
• Able to lift 50+ lbs. on a consistent basis (may use a dolly for situations requiring heaving loads).
• Dexterity in hands and fingers to operate computers and instrumentation.
• Average vision and able to see to read reports and operate instrumentation.
• Hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone.
• Able to perform repetitive motion actions.
• Able to work overtime when needed.