Laboratory Technician I

GRADE 2116
Pay Range $51,189 - $74,714

General Description

The purpose of this position is to perform technical level work in the testing of wastewater samples to ensure compliance with the requirements set forth by the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This position works under close to general supervision of more senior technicians according to set procedures but determines how or when to complete tasks.

Duties & Responsibilities

The functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this position. Management may assign additional functions as necessary.

Performs various chemical tests related to wastewater treatment.
Takes samples for testing from pumping stations and wastewater treatment plant.
Prepares various solution for testing.
Keeps laboratory glassware and equipment clean and free of contaminants.
Prepares laboratory equipment for testing by cleaning and proper maintenance.
Prepares reports on test results and record data in appropriate logbooks.
Participates in preventive maintenance of laboratory equipment.
Performs related work as required.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

Requires High School graduation or GED equivalent supplemented by one (1) year of experience in municipal or industrial wastewater treatment laboratory work or related experience or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Additional Requirements

Good knowledge of the principles, practices and methods of laboratory analytical techniques; good knowledge of occupational hazards connected with wastewater facilities; good knowledge of various methods used in the testing of wastewater; ability to perform laboratory tests and prepare accurate reports on test results; ability to follow oral and written instructions; working knowledge of personal computers and pertinent applications; regular and timely attendance; performance of duties in a safe manner.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This is medium work requiring the exertion of 50 pounds of force occasionally, up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects; work requires climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, feeling, and repetitive motions; vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word, and conveying detailed or important instructions to others accurately, loudly, or quickly; 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; physical attendance at work site is required to perform manual tasks, provide immediate service to onsite customers, and supervise or interact with work group; visual acuity is required for depth perception, color perception, visual inspection involving small defects and/or small parts, use of measuring devices, assembly or fabrication of parts at or within arm’s length, operation of machines, operation of motor vehicles or equipment, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work, and observing general surroundings and activities; mental acuity is required to make rational decisions through sound logic and deduction; the worker is subject to inside and outside environmental conditions, extreme cold, extreme heat, noise, vibration, hazards, atmospheric conditions, and oils. The worker may be exposed to blood borne pathogens and may be required to wear specialized personal protective equipment.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Involves routine and frequent exposure to: - Bright/dim light; Dusts and pollen. - Extreme heat and/or cold; Wet or humid conditions. - Extreme noise levels, Animals/wildlife. - Vibration; Fumes and/or noxious odors. - Traffic; Moving machinery. - Electrical shock; Heights. - Radiation; Disease/pathogens. - Toxic/caustic chemicals; Explosives; Violence. - Other extreme hazards not listed above.

Special Certifications and License Requirements

Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license with an acceptable driving history.
Possession and retention of a valid Level I Wastewater Operator license issued by the State of Delaware.

Notices

Kent County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (42 U.S. C. 12101 et. seq.), Kent County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer. The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. This is an employment at-will position.