Water Quality Analyst (Chemistry)

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Grade 55
Minimum: $1,072.78/ week
Midpoint: $1,314.16

PURPOSE OF POSITION:

Under the direction of the Supervisor - Water Quality (Chemistry), provides primary assistance in Instrumental Chemical Analyses and Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) support. Performs all necessary Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) for data reliability and method certification. Will be required to perform other duties and functions that may be assigned in order for the laboratory to perform its basic mission.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1. Responsible for one of the three areas-Organic, Inorganic, or Water Lab-and serves as either the Primary or Back-up Analyst for EPA methods 200.8, 300.0, 524.2, and Standard Methods 5310 C. Primary Analysts must meet all MODNR certification requirements for their assigned methods, including external audit interviews. Organic Chemistry involves analyzing disinfection by-products, volatile organic compounds, and total organic compounds using GC-MS, GC, or TOC. Inorganic Chemistry analyzes drinking water metals and common ions via ICP-MS or IC. The Water Lab handles analyses and daily sampling for treatment plants, sample custody, water quality titrations, and fluoride testing.

2. Provides support with SM9223B and other biological analyses, such as ELISA and microscopy (w/fluorescence).

3. Responsible for data entry in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and internal reporting software. Notifies personnel and customers of sample results.

4. Provides support for the Revised Total Coliform Rule (RTCR). May be required to pick up or ship various types of samples or supplies from any City Utilities' location.

5. Provides support for the EPA Lead and Copper Rule, including contacting customers, running samples, communicating with MODNR, and staying informed on new Lead and Copper Rule Revisions and Improvements (LCRR, LCRI).

6. Works with local and state agencies to protect drinking water sources. Participates in opportunities to educate the public about water quality, including facility tours and speaking events.

7. Provides support for lake treatments and performs copper testing in compliance with the NPDES permits.

8. Performs field analysis for total residual chlorine, temperature, turbidity, conductivity and pH as required in the distribution system, treatment plants, and raw water sources.

9. Provides support to the Quality Assurance Officer for the triennial Chemistry Certification and triennial RTCR Certification.

10. Provides operational assistance for Water Treatment Operations such as jar testing for optimizing coagulant dose determinations, chlorine demand, permanganate demand, polyaluminum chloride acceptance, etc.

11. Expected to participate in professional organizations related to water quality.

12. Performs other related duties as required or assigned by management.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience:

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, or other related field is required. 1 year of actual laboratory experience outside of a college course is required. Experience in a water quality lab or a similar laboratory facility is preferred. Graduate course work may be considered in lieu of the experience required. Background in state and federal drinking water regulations is preferred. Analytical instrumentation experience is preferred. Experience with EPA methods 200.8, 300.0, 524.2, and Standard Methods 5310C is preferred.

Licensing/Certification:

A MODNR Distribution I license will need to be obtained within the first 2 years of employment. Must have a valid driver's license (minimum class F). If born after January 1, 1984, a valid Missouri boater's license is required. Must be able to perform IDOC and attain certification for performing microbiological analysis.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

* Working knowledge of drinking water regulations as well as environmental regulations.
* Working knowledge of advanced analytical instrumentation MDLs, and data interpretation.

* Working knowledge of regulatory methods, preferably EPA methods 200.8, 300.0, 524.2, and Standard Methods 5310C.
* Thoroughly acquainted with QA/QC procedures and Good Laboratory Practices.

* Ability to train and develop professionals with a passion for water quality.
* Ability to present information clearly, concisely, and convey technical information in non-technical terms with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
* Ability to handle personnel problems and situations involving tact, discipline, and employee recognition in a professional manner.
* Ability to work courteously with customers, co-workers, and individuals in all departments.
* Ability to successfully navigate various electronic programs including but not limited to Microsoft Office Suites, other applicable information technology applications, and self-service platforms.
* Exceptional customer service skills including the ability to interact with people in a positive and courteous manner.
* Excellent organizational and analytical skills in other work areas to advise other departments as needed.
* Maintain adherence to all company policies.

Physical Requirements:

May occasionally perform bending, stooping, squatting, and crouching in order to collect routine water samples. May be required to lift up to 50 lbs. occasionally. Must be able to perform field surveillance, swim, operate a boat and trailer, and lift gear and instruments in a safe manner. Satisfactorily perform Initial Demonstration of Capability (IDOC) on field parameters including but not limited to Conductivity, pH, Total/Free Chlorine, and Turbidity. Must be able to perform IDOC on Water Quality Parameter (WQP) testing including but not limited to Alkalinity, Calcium Hardness, Fluoride, and Total Hardness.

Working Conditions:

Normal laboratory, office or field environment. Responsible for working routine on weekends and holidays. May rotate on after-hours duty call-out list. Subject to 24-hour call-out in emergencies.

Miscellaneous Requirements:

* Employee must remain alert and aware of their surroundings at all times and maintain the ability to respond to changing circumstances in a timely manner.
* Must be able to work successfully with diverse groups of people.

TESTING

Testing may be required.

EEO

City Utilities offers equal employment opportunities to individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, ancestry, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, genetic information or marital status. Learn more about CU and EEO.