Scientist I

Primary responsibility is performing routine tests on wastewater and drinking water, including chemical and microbiological analyses according to established principles and techniques. Duties include receiving and preparing samples, assessing testing data, inputting results into LIMS system, conducting maintenance on lab instruments and equipment, and completing work orders. Additional tasks involve office work such as ordering supplies, preparing sample bottles and glassware, managing paperwork, and maintaining purchasing records. Requires experience in a NELAP/TNI certified laboratory and knowledge of Standard Methods and EPA analytical procedures for testing drinking water, wastewater, and solid matrices. Reports to the Laboratory Manager.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine analyses such as: BOD, CBOD, pH, Conductivity, Chlorine, NO₂/NO₃, TSS, TS%, VSS, COD, Fecal, Colilert/Colilert-18/24, HPC, Student T and E-Coli Quanti-Tray. May be trained on additional tests as needed.
• Complete Demonstration of Capability for every test performed annually.
• Perform proficiency tests for laboratory certification.
• Assess testing data and enter reported results in LIMS system. Calculate results using mathematical formulas, including advanced calculations and practical algebra.
• Communicate unusual findings, discrepancies, or potential issues to supervisors, co-workers, and other departments.
• Receive samples and log sample information into LIMS system, transcribe relevant data, and assign laboratory identification numbers. Ensure Chain of Custody forms are correctly filled out by sample collectors. Review sample volume, integrity, and measure temperatures.
• Participate in the collection, preservation, and transport of samples as needed.
• Operate laboratory equipment, including spectrophotometers, microscopes, meters, autoclave, balances, oven, furnace, BOD auto analyzer, QuAAtro analyzer, and other instruments. Perform troubleshooting, calibration, and preventive maintenance. Complete repairs when necessary.
• Maintain and organize laboratory records, logbooks, and documentation, including bench sheets, Chain of Custody forms, reagent preparation records, purchasing records, and equipment files.
• Perform general housekeeping of the workspace, glassware, and sample disposal. Prepare chemical reagents and microbiology media for various tests. Dispose of expired chemicals according to state regulations and maintain hazardous waste storage.
• Order and receive chemicals and supplies. Maintain chemical and supply inventory in LIMS, including receiving current Certificates of Analysis and Safety Data Sheets for each chemical.
• Operate office equipment such as computer, scanner/printer/copier, calculator, and telephone. Perform office duties including sending/receiving email, answering telephone, and scanning documents.
• Participate in recommended training and classes such as CPR/First Aid, relevant computer software, and Records Management training.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, or related field.
• 1 year of experience working for a utility in a NELAP/TNI certified laboratory or 2 years of experience working in a laboratory with a focus on laboratory analysis including microbiology.
• Must possess and maintain a valid State of Florida Class E Driver’s License.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Regularly required to stand and walk to a significant degree; use hands to operate tools or feel, and talk or hear.
• Frequently required to pull, push, kneel, bend, squat, crawl, and twist.
• Must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Working Conditions

The work environment characteristics described are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

• Environmental factors include outdoor conditions: rugged terrain, slippery surfaces, varying weather (heat, cold, dry, wet), noise, darkness, brightness, vibrations, traffic, biological agents, chemicals, gas/fumes, magnetic fields, or congested areas.
• Indoor conditions include flat surfaces, noise, sitting with occasional walking and standing.

Benefits

• Health, Dental, and Vision Medical Insurance
• Employee Onsite Wellness Center
• 401(a) and 457 Retirement Plans with Retirement Match
• Group Basic Life Insurance / AD&D
• Paid Vacation and Holidays
• Paid Sick Time / Sick Bank
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible Spending Account Program (FSA) and Dependent Care (FSA)
• Longevity and Christmas Bonuses
• Tuition Reimbursement