Performs complex technical work involving the chemical and biological analysis of water, performing standard and special chemical and bacteriological laboratory tests, preparing and maintaining records and reports, maintaining laboratory certification, and related work as apparent or assigned. Work is performed under the general direction of the Chief WTP Operator and the Assistant Chief WTP Operator. Continuous supervision is exercised over all personnel within the team.
Dept/Div: Water and Sewer/Water Production
FLSA Status: Exempt
Qualification Requirements
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable an individual with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Essential Functions
- Performs standard regular and special chemical and bacteriological tests for conformity to regulations including quality control and assurance requirements.
- Conducts qualitative and quantitative chemical and microbiological analyses for water quality control as required by State and Federal regulations.
- Prepares monthly and special reports such as collecting and sorting data, sampling for lead and copper, CCR, etc.; checks accuracy of tests and sees that data is entered properly; maintains Federal database for Water Department; maintains laboratory records.
- Collects samples at the plant and other sites for testing of effluent for conformity to regulations.
- Maintain laboratory certification; implements all new State and Federal regulations; prepares bids, develops new sample plans as required; revises and updates laboratory procedures.
- Instructs and trains lower certified and trainee operators in lab safety and microbiology techniques.
- Participates in a variety of in-service training programs, certifications, and re-certifications as required.
- Serves as the Pretreatment Inspector for the City of Salem to ensure compliance with pretreatment regulations and requirements.
- Assists the Chief WTP Operator and the Assistant Chief WTP Operator with sampling and monitoring of contracted third-party water systems.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Comprehensive knowledge of the principles of microbiology, organic and inorganic chemistry, including qualitative and quantitative analysis; thorough knowledge of modern microbiological and chemical laboratory procedures, techniques, and equipment and skill in their use; thorough knowledge of chemistry and biochemistry; thorough knowledge of State and Federal regulations and requirements for drinking water and laboratory certification; skill in the use of personal computers, associated software packages, hardware, and peripheral equipment; ability to perform research work on problems of a chemical nature; ability to prepare clear and accurate reports; ability to plan and schedule work to meet time requirements; ability to communicate effectively in oral and written form; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, State officials, contractors, and the general public.
Education and Experience
Bachelor's degree with coursework in chemistry, biology, or related field and considerable experience working in a water treatment plant, collecting water samples, conducting water analysis, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Physical Requirements
This work requires the regular exertion of up to 10 pounds of force and occasional exertion of up to 25 pounds of force; work regularly requires speaking or hearing, using hands to finger, handle or feel, reaching with hands and arms and pushing or pulling, frequently requires sitting, stooping, kneeling, crouching or crawling and repetitive motions and occasionally requires standing, walking, tasting or smelling and lifting; work has standard vision requirements; vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word; hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels and to receive detailed information through oral communications and/or to make fine distinctions in sound; work requires preparing and analyzing written or computer data, visual inspection involving small defects and/or small parts, using of measuring devices, operating machines, operating motor vehicles or equipment and observing general surroundings and activities; work frequently requires exposure to wet, humid conditions (non-weather) and occasionally requires exposure to fumes or airborne particles, exposure to toxic or caustic chemicals, exposure to outdoor weather conditions, exposure to extreme cold (non-weather), exposure to extreme heat (non-weather) and exposure to the risk of electrical shock; work is generally in a quiet location (e.g. library, private offices).
Special Requirements
Ability to obtain a Waterworks Operator license is preferred.
Valid driver's license in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
.png)
.png)
.png){kind=logo}
