Assistant Superintendent/Laboratory Technician

SUMMARY

Under general supervision of the Superintendent, the Assistant Superintendent/Laboratory Technician of the Wastewater Treatment Plant is responsible for providing analysis in support of wastewater treatment operations; ensures policies, procedures, and methods are adhered to; provide training to plant personnel on proper laboratory and sampling process if needed; perform technical and complex tasks as assigned.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Plan and perform chemical, biological, and physical tests of wastewater to determine the efficiency of the chemical and biological processes within the wastewater treatment plant
• Establish schedules and methods for laboratory analysis and quality assurance program
• Identify resource needs, review needs with appropriate management, and allocate resources accordingly
• Coordinate, plan and schedule external laboratories when required
• Implement, maintain, and update lab supply logbooks as required by NPDES Permit
• Ensure the safety of all staff members and contractors working in our facilities; maintain and record gas meter calibrations, maintain material safety data sheets
• Assist staff to achieve and maintain Wastewater Certification
• Train staff to perform analysis required by all shifts and weekends
• Ensures sampling and testing procedures are conducted in accordance with NPDES permit requirements and approved methodology
• Develop and maintain SOPs for all laboratory functions
• Develop working relationship with DEP Laboratory Accreditation and Health Department personnel
• Performs a variety of tests on wastewater effluent including BOD, ammonia nitrogen, Ph alkalinity, dissolved oxygen, total suspended solids, fecal coliform, phosphorus, nitrate/nitrite, TKN, % solids, etc.
• Compiles data, maintains records, and enters data into lab software
• Performs PADEP mandated quality control sample tests, daily instrument calibration and in-house quality control testing
• Oversee appearance of laboratory, cleaning and washing of laboratory supplies
• Updates laboratory sampling and testing procedures as required or improved methods become available
• Stay current on possible treatment trends
• Use statistical analysis to show trends and prepare reports as needed
• Communicate with plant staff to identify any deficiencies of treatment and possible solutions
• Supervises all plant operations and employees, and performs duties in the absence of the Superintendent
• Work with Municipal Authority Engineer on all sampling required with NPDES Renewal process along with testing for plant upgrade designs
• Be available any day or time for emergency call outs as needed
• Performs other assigned tasks as required

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Physical capability to perform duties of plant operations as needed
• Thorough knowledge of analytical principles of chemistry and microbiology as applied to wastewater treatment
• Thorough knowledge of laboratory methods, procedures and terminology
• Understanding possible environmental impacts of plant effluent
• Skill in the use of laboratory equipment
• Ability to independently perform a variety of laboratory tests and analyses

DESIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• A Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, or Environmental Science
• A minimum of 2 years of experience in laboratory analysis relating to water treatment plant
• Any combination of education, training, and experience
• Possession of an appropriate and valid Pennsylvania driver's license
• Possess, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, State Board of Certification, Wastewater Systems Certification, Class B or higher, Subclass 2 and 5 or desire to achieve certification; or qualifying degree in lieu of Subclass 5
• Maintain Wastewater Operator Certification through continuing education
• Maintain a laboratory certification in accordance with Operator Certification Program
• Maintain Lab Accreditation in accordance with Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, State Board of Certification

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This position works primarily in an indoor laboratory with significant standing and sitting in the work area. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data, to operate standard office equipment, and calibrate instruments; prepares filters, reagents, and uses clearing solutions safely; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; hearing and speech to communicate in-person and over the telephone. Positions in this classification occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve file information. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects weighing up to 50 pounds. Employees work in an indoor environment with limited noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct daily exposure to the public.