| General Summary |
The Chemist/Microbiologist performs 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
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| 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
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| 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
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| 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
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| 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
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| Preferences |
Additional experience is helpful. |
| Salary |
$62,961 - $107,034 |
