Austin Energy Utility Chemist I

City of Austin; United States; On-site; USD 40,000 - 49,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Austin seeks a Chemist I to perform routine chemical analyses and equipment checks under supervision, supporting water quality testing and QA/QC compliance. The role may require weekends and overnight hours as an essential employee, with responsibilities across safety and reporting.

Based at 2401 Holly St, Austin, TX 78702, the position carries a pay range of $29.11–$35.66 per hour and requires a Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or related science along with a Texas Class C driver’s

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a sciences field; substitution rules may apply for more experience.
• Experience with QA/QC and laboratory safety procedures.
• Ability to analyze and interpret data and report findings clearly.

Responsibilities

• Evaluates samples to determine analysis/methodology.
• Maintains, troubleshoots, calibrates equipment and sterilizes where needed.
• Implements SOPs and QA/QC procedures to improve precision and accuracy.
• Assists with preparing technical reports and projects.

Skills

Lab techniques

QA/QC

Data analysis

Equipment maintenance

Safety protocols

Communication skills

Troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental or Natural Science or related field

Tools

pH meter

Spectrometer

Excel

LIMS

Access

Job description

About This Position

Works under close supervision using working knowledge to perform routine analytical activities with established procedures.

Job Description : Duties, Functions and Responsibilities

Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned. Evaluates samples to determine appropriate analysis and/or methodology. Performs laboratory tasks in accordance with laboratory standards documented in Quality Manual. Maintains, troubleshoots, and calibrates equipment and/or sterilizes equipment. Recognizes the need for and applies established Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) procedures as needed to check or improve precision and accuracy of analytical data. Complies with applicable regulatory standards, policies, codes, regulations, and industry and organizational safety guidelines. Implements and maintains standard operating procedures. Assists in implementing projects. Assists with preparing technical reports.

Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised

None.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed. Knowledge of local, state and federal law and city ordinances. Knowledge of water quality analysis and operational / industry safety guidelines. Knowledge of chemical principles and methods. Knowledge of safely working with hazardous chemicals. Skill in oral and written communications. Skill in collecting, analyzing and interpreting applicable research data. Skill using appropriate mathematics for chemical analysis. Ability to use appropriate database system to track lab information. Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities. Ability to troubleshoot, maintain and repair various analytical instrumentation. Ability to analyze and resolve irregular events. Ability to work in an industrial facility. Ability to climb, crawl, crouch or assume other non-sitting positions to take samples, check equipment and chemical tank levels, and replace and repair equipment.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental or Natural Science or related field. One (1) additional year of experience may substitute for one (1) year of the required education with a maximum substitution of four (4) years.

Licenses and Certifications Required

Valid Texas Class "C" Driver's License.

Preferred Qualifications

Knowledge of laboratory safety protocols and PPE. Experience with analytical instrumentation (i.e. pH meter, spectrometer, etc.) Experience with solution preparation. Experience with waste handling. Various software knowledge (Excel, LIMS, Access, etc.)

Notes to Candidate

A Chemist I performs routine chemical analyses and routine equipment checks under the supervision of a senior chemist or manager. This position is essential to the City of Austin and may require weekends and overnight hours. This has been designated as an Essential Employee position. In the event of a City-designated emergency, Essential Employees provide services that impact the public health, safety, utility services, and welfare of members of the Austin community and other employees and ensure the continuity of essential operations. In such an emergency, Essential Employees may be called back in, may be required to modify their schedule, may be assigned to a City-designated work site, or may be retained on site to assist with operations and recovery. Work hours may include evenings, weekends, holidays, on-call assignments, call back, and additional hours outside the regular schedule. Shifts may change based on departmental or business needs. This position is eligible for on-call and call back pay, as applicable. Employees are required to follow all applicable City policies, procedures, and work rules related to on-call and call back assignments.

Work Location

2401 Holly St., Austin, TX 78702

Pay Range

$29.11 (min) to $35.66 (mid) per hour

Days/Hours

Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Additional work hours may be required to support 24-hour utility operations

Driving Requirement

This position requires a valid Texas Class “C” Driver’s License or the ability to acquire by your hire date. External New Hires must meet the City of Austin’s Driver Record Evaluation (DRE) requisite. To be considered for a driving position, applicants cannot have more than three moving violations or a total of six Driver Record Evaluation points within a period of thirty-six (36) months.

NERC

This position will require a NERC Clearance.

JOIN THE CITY OF AUSTIN TEAM

At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer—we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. As we strive to fulfill our commitment as public servants, it is important that we ground our efforts in a set of guiding principles – Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity – that anchor our delivery of services that significantly impact the lives of Austinites. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee. What Makes the City of Austin Special? Make a Difference: Join a team driving meaningful change in one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation. Value and Innovation: Work in an environment where employees are valued, and innovation thrives. Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits. Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System. Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure. Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support. Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities. Modern Workspaces: Work in innovative and sustainable environments that foster collaboration and inspiration. By joining us, you become part of a community that values its people and is committed to making Austin the most thriving and resilient city in the country.

EEO Statement for City of Austin

The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual's AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk. City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call [phone] or Texas Relay by dialing 7-1-1.

JOIN THE CITY OF AUSTIN TEAM

At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer—we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. As we strive to fulfill our commitment as public servants, it is important that we ground our efforts in a set of guiding principles – Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity – anchors in delivering services that significantly impact the lives of Austinites. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee. What Makes the City of Austin Special? Make a Difference: Join a team driving meaningful change in one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation. Value and Innovation : Work in an environment where employees are valued and innovation thrives. Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits. Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System. Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure. Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support. Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities. Modern Workspaces: Work in innovative and sustainable environments that foster collaboration and inspiration. By joining us, you become part of a community that values its people and is committed to making Austin the most thriving and resilient city in the country.

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