Position Information
Functional TitleEnvironmental Chemist/Microbiologist
Recruitment Category TypeStandard
Functional CategoryProduction
GradeGS.10
FLSA StatusExempt
Requisition Number24-0197
Number of Vacancies1
Job LevelStaff
Job CodeN/A
Job Description Summary
Organization NameLaboratory
Reports toLD Operations Section Manager
Full or Part TimeFull Time
If Part Time how many hours per week
Regular or TemporaryRegular
Position End Date (if temporary)
Work Schedule
Monday through Fridays
8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Some nights, weekends, holidaysPosition LocationSilver Spring
Position Summary Information
General Summary
TheChemist/Microbiologistperforms chemical and microbiological procedures requiring the use of basic to advanced laboratory instrumentation. This position provides technical support to laboratory staff and performs related duties as required.
Essential Functions
Serves as a subject matter expert for Laboratory staff
Uses instrumentation such as GFAA , ICP , Hg Analyzers, Flow Injection Analyzers, BOD Analyzers, TOC Analyzers, Sulfate Analyzers, ICP -MS, UV VIS , COD Analyzers, FlowCAM, Microscopes, GC, or other technical equipment for the determination of microbiological organisms, physical properties, metals, and inorganic and organic chemical constituents
Performs a variety of analyses, reviews data to ensure all required quality control standards are met, and uploads data to the Laboratory Information Management System ( LIMS )
Monitors, reviews, evaluates, and validates data produced by analysts to detect or assess problems and to determine compliance with acceptable standards
Performs and oversees the preparation of samples for subsequent analyses, including filtration, digestion, and extraction
Provides cross-training and guidance to laboratory personnel on instrumentation, procedures, and methodologies
Assists in achieving compliance with new regulations that may affect WSSC Water’s water and wastewater treatment facilities
Prepares and maintains reports to validate data and satisfy the Environmental Protection Agency ( EPA ) and Maryland Department of the Environment ( MDE ) requirements for environmental test procedures
Provides technical advice and assistance to the Laboratory Operations Section Manager or Laboratory Division Manager
Researches new technological advancements in instrumentation and methodologies for laboratory use
Conducts special projects research for the Laboratory Operations Section Manager or Laboratory Division Manager
Successfully analyzes quarterly and annual Proficiency Testing samples for assigned analyses
Updates all required laboratory QA/QC and safety records at pre-scheduled intervals
Assists in writing and updating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Performs routine preventative maintenance on analytical instrumentation
Assists Sr Chemist/Microbiologist with sample preparation
Assists Laboratory Analysts I and II when workloads demand
Assists Sr. Chemist/Microbiologist with research and development of new methodologies
Drives a vehicle to conduct WSSC Water business
Other Functions
Serves on interview panels for selection of laboratory staff
Assists in investigations of customer concerns and questions
Assists in conducting visitor tours of the laboratory facility
Aids laboratory personnel in keeping the laboratory area safe, neat, and clean
Maintains sample storage areas including rotating storage areas and final disposal of samples
Participates in Stand-by and Call Back Program
Performs related duties as assigned
Work Environment And Physical Demands
Work is performed in a laboratory environment
Required Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities
Thorough knowledge of theories and practices in the fields of chemistry, microbiology, or biology which are applied in analytical techniques
Skill in the operation of analytical instrumentation including routine maintenance and minor repairs
Skill in operating Hg, Flow Injection, BOD , TOC , COD , Sulfate analyzers, GC, ICP , ICP -MS, UV VIS , GFAA , FlowCAM, and microscopes
Skill in operating basic instrumentation such as pH, Conductivity, Turbidity, and IonSelective Meters, Balances, Autoclaves, Spectrophotometers, Ovens, Auto-Titrators, and Digestion Blocks
Skill in the use of laboratory computer programs including instrument software and LIMS
Knowledge of principles, practices, methods, and techniques of sample collection and preparation per State and Federal guidelines
Knowledge of EPA (Safe Drinking Water Act and Clean Water Act) and MDE applicable regulations and guidelines
Knowledge of environmental SOPs, EPA Approved Methods, and Standard Methods procedures
Thorough knowledge of proper laboratory procedures and good laboratory practices ( GLP )
Knowledge of Safety Data Sheets, Laboratory Safety procedures, and Personal Protective Equipment ( PPE )
Ability to expand knowledgebase to gain efficiency in new procedures and disciplines
Ability to prepare comprehensive analytical reports and interpret test results
Ability to accurately perform chemical, bacteriological, or biological tests with required acceptable quality control
Ability to train Laboratory personnel within their designated scope of knowledge, skills, and abilities
Ability to follow complex verbal and written instructions
Ability to guide and oversee the work of junior staff
Ability to effectively prioritize work and manage time to meet tight deadlines and continuous rush orders
Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing
Ability to interact with internal and external customers effectively and professionally
Minimum Education, Experience Requirements
Bachelor’s degree
4+ years of laboratory experience that includes:
3+ years progressively responsible environmental laboratory experience performing routine wet chemistry, microbiology, and advanced analyses of water and wastewater
1+ years of quality assurance program experience
Additional Requirements
Possession of a valid driver’s license, with no more than 4 points, and the ability to obtain and maintain a WSSC Water driver’s permit within 90 days of hire or transfer date
Valid Maryland Department of the Environment ( MDE ) Sampler’s License (must be obtained within six months of employment and be retained for duration in position)
Obtain MDE approval for one drinking water method (inorganic, organic, or microbiology) within 6 months of employment
Must maintain valid driver’s license, Water Sampler Certification, and MDE method approval for duration in the position
Able to work nights, weekends, and holidays
Employees in this position are designated or considered emergency personnel; therefore, the employee must report to work as scheduled or as directed by their supervisor when WSSC Water declares an event that requires emergency personnel to report to work
Preferences
Additional experience is helpful.
Salary$62,961 - $107,034
Posting Detail Information
EEO Statement
AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
It is the policy of the Commission to select new employees and to promote current employees without regard to race, sexual orientation, sex, religion, national origin, marital status, or handicap. The Commission does not discriminate against qualified individuals with a disability and will make reasonable accommodation for any disability that does not result in undue hardship for the Commission.
Close Date
Open Until FilledYes
Special Instructions to Applicants
Additional Information
All applicants selected will be subject to drug screening and a background check/verification.
Supplemental Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
Do you have a valid driver's license with no more than 4 points and with no restrictions (except eyeglasses/contact lenses)?Yes
No
Will you, now or in the future, require sponsorship for employment visa status?Yes
No
Are you an eligible veteran of any branch of the armed forces who has received an honorable discharge or Certificate of Satisfactory Completion of Military Service, the spouse of an eligible veteran who has a service-connected disability or the surviving spouse of a deceased eligible veteran?
Yes
No
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
ResumeOptional Documents
Cover Letter/Letter of Application