Laboratory Technician I

Tests and records data on water and wastewater samples from WPC plants, industries, surface waters, and drinking waters assuring all water meets its designated criteria.

Performs laboratory analysis on routine and special samples of water and wastewater; tests include biochemical oxygen demand, total and volatile solids and suspended solids, phosphorus, ammonia, pH, chlorine residual, oil and grease, alkalinity, volatile acids, conductivity, total and fecal coliform, chemical oxygen demand, methylene blue active substances, and turbidity.

Reports results of influent and effluent samples of City water pollution control plants to the Georgia Environmental Protection Division; indicates compliance or non-compliance with permits.

Records and reports industrial sample test results to the Chemist/Inspector for forwarding to the accounting department for billing to the industries.

May collect samples from various creeks.

Runs coliform test on well water samples or to inspect new water lines; preserves samples sent out for additional tests.

Maintains, calibrates, changes membranes, and adjusts temperatures on all lab equipment; checks air velocity in fume hoods; drains stills; changes cleaning solutions for soaking pipets.

Requests and stores all laboratory supplies and reagents.

Assists with minor housekeeping duties as necessary.

Performs other related duties as required.

Employee subject to recall to duty in cases of emergency.

Education and Experience:

High School Diploma or G.E.D.

No experience required.

Any equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the minimum level of qualifications stated above.

Licenses and Certifications:

Water or Wastewater Lab Analyst Certification.

Must possess a valid Class C Georgia driver's license and satisfactory motor vehicle record.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of practices, procedures, and safety precautions involved in laboratory analysis.

Knowledge of basic chemistry, mathematics, and biology.

Knowledge of record keeping.

Ability to plot and interpret graphs.

Ability to read and interpret rules and regulations pertaining to water and wastewater sampling and testing.

Ability to distinguish colors.

Ability to use a pipet.

Ability to operate and calibrate standard and specialized laboratory equipment.

This position is classified as safety-sensitive. Incumbent will be subject to random drug/alcohol testing.

This class specification should not be interpreted as all inclusive. It is intended to identify the major responsibilities and requirements of this job. The incumbents may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification.

• The above position qualifies for an automatic promotion to a Lab Technician position upon attainment of the second certification (either Water or Wastewater Lab Analyst Certification.)