ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION
Truckee Meadows Water Authority (TMWA) is a not-for-profit, community-owned water utility, overseen by elected officials and citizen appointees from Reno, Sparks and Washoe County. TMWA has a highly skilled workforce who ensure the around-the-clock treatment, delivery and availability of high-quality drinking water for more than 400,000 residents of the Truckee Meadows.
We are looking to hire an Associate Microbiologist, to join our Water Quality Department.
ABOUT THE POSITION
The Associate Microbiologist is responsible for conducting microbiological analyses of raw and treated drinking water to ensure a potable supply that meets all regulatory requirements for the customer. The incumbent assists in performing research and provides input on new and improved microbiological methodology and laboratory testing on new concepts that could improve water quality, monitoring capability and/or reduce departmental expense; performs complex microbiological analyses using advanced techniques; uses state-of-the-art microscopy; and receives and resolves simple and complex customer complaints and requests.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONSWe believe that each employee makes a significant contribution to our success. That contribution should not be limited by the assigned responsibilities. Therefore, this job description is designed to outline primary duties, qualifications, and job scope, but not limit the incumbent nor TMWA to just the work identified. It is our expectation that each employee will offer his/her services wherever and whenever necessary to ensure the success of our endeavors.
Successful completion of Initial Demonstration of Competency (IDC) testing associated with laboratory certified methods. Including analyzing samples as required by the EPA to reach Principal Analyst.After completion of IDCs, perform water quality analyses (including bacteriological, protozoological and chemical) and water sampling in a timely manner using EPA approved methodology and acceptable quality assurance procedures which assure all applicable microbiological certification requirements are met for both drinking water and pollution control samples.Participate in special projects involving microbiological analyses, laboratory OandM manuals, microbiological certification programs, and both general and special report writing presentations.Collect, update, and maintain data within the Laboratory Information Management system or other databases.Participate in ongoing Proficiency Testing for water supply and water pollution laboratory certification.Assist with technical and compliance reports for state and local government agencies.Participates in laboratory audits conducted by the State of Nevada Laboratory Certification Program.Collect samples from distribution mains, tanks, pump stations and other facilities as necessary.Maintain internal reports from which senior staff retrieve data for outside agency reporting.Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, county, and local statutes, regulations and ordinances pertinent to the responsibilities of this position.With the assistance of more senior laboratory staff, handle customer complaints and questions submitted via the internet in a professional manner, assuring customers health and satisfaction.Drive company vehicles using accepted safety practices.Participate in the Water Quality on-call rotation which requires 24-hour availability to handle all water quality issues.MINIMUM REQUIREMENTSAny combination of education and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications is through:
Experience: At least one year experience in a microbiology laboratory performing water quality analyses and laboratory duties.Education and Training: Education equivalent to a bachel rs degree in biology, microbiology, or a related field.
Must have working-level knowledge of the English language including reading, writing, and speaking English.
CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSURE and SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
A valid Nevada (or California - depending on state of residency) Driver License at time of hire and continuing thereafter.
A State of Nevada Grade II Water Distribution Operator certification (D2) is required and must be obtained within a predetermined period.
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation. During hire by TMWA and periodically during employment, background investigations may be conducted.
This position is considered a safety sensitive position and employment is contingent upon the results of drug and/or alcohol testing which includes screening for marijuana. The presence of marijuana or other screened for substances on any employment related substance test may result in a refusal to hire or termination of employment.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIESKnowledge of:
Truckee Meadows Water Authority Policies and Procedures; Federal, state, and local water quality standards; inspection criteria and testing techniques required in water quality sampling; common tools and test equipment used in water quality testing; occupational hazards and necessary safety precautions applicable to maintenance of water quality; use and care of standard laboratory equipment; advanced science and math.
Skilled in/Ability to:
Effectively manage time and handle multiple simultaneous projects and project tasks; respond to requests and inquiries from customers and TMWA staff; establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; be proficient in Microsoft Office Software including Word and Excel; perform simple to complex laboratory tasks to ensure compliance with water quality and environmental regulations; read and interpret diagnostic test results and regulations applying to water quality; use a variety of water quality test equipment and instruments; interact with customers, field crew members, operations and maintenance staff on issues regarding water quality and treatment; become certified in distribution system operations at the Grade 2 level within a one year period; maintain accurate records; be punctual regarding work hours established by TMWA; be mentally and physically alert during working hours.
TMWA is an equal opportunity employer. It is TMWAs policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race (including traits associated with race, such as hair texture and protective hairstyles), color, gender, religion, age, national origin, social or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, pregnancy, disability, military and/or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. TMWAs commitment to equal opportunity includes all terms, conditions, and privileges of employment, including but not limited to recruiting, hiring, job placement, training, compensation, benefits, discipline, advancement, and termination.
All decisions affecting any terms and conditions of employment, including recruitment, hiring, assignment, training, compensation, promotion, salary, disciplinary action, and an employees caregiving responsibilities, will be made without regard to race (including traits associated with race, such as hair texture and protective hairstyles), color, gender, religion, age, national origin, social or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, pregnancy, disability, military and/or