Lab Technician, Senior

DeKalb County Government; Decatur (GA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

DeKalb County Government is hiring a Laboratory Technician to coordinate and perform essential laboratory testing on drinking water. The role includes collecting samples, performing microbiological and chemical tests, and maintaining compliance with EPD and EPA regulations. Candidates must possess an Associate degree in a relevant field and have experience in laboratory techniques. A valid Georgia driver's license and a Water or Wastewater Laboratory Analyst license are required for this position.

Qualifications

• Experience in aseptic techniques and safe laboratory practices.
• Experience with bacteriological testing and chemical analysis.
• Ability to analyze water testing for trends and patterns.

Responsibilities

• Collect water samples and conduct tests for various parameters.
• Prepare bacteriological media and perform microbiological tests.
• Train new laboratory and operations employees.

Skills

Aseptic techniques

Safe laboratory practices

Bacteriological testing

Chemical analysis

Water quality analysis

Education

Associate degree in Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science

Job description

Purpose of Classification

The purpose of this classification is to coordinate and perform a variety of standard physical, chemical and bacteriological laboratory tests to maintain compliance with EPD and EPA standards for drinking water.

Job Description

Essential Functions of this position include

• Collecting water samples from locations throughout the county, and testing for fluoride, iron, chlorine, pH (potential hydrogen), and bacteria.
• Conducting microbiological testing of water mandated by regulatory agencies, performing calculations for microbiological and chemical testing, daily chemical analysis with instrumentation, daily and monthly calibration checks on instrumentation, and physical testing (color turbidity, suspended solids, etc.).
• Preparing and sterilizing bottles for sample collection; communicating results to supervisors, operations management, and other county personnel.
• Preparing all bacteriological media and reagents needed for testing; performing microbiological testing of distribution system samples; recording results of microbiological testing for distribution system samples, customer concerns, and major incidents; and performing monthly checks of safety stations, balances, instrumentation, and other equipment.
• Recording and maintaining testing results, compiling and preparing forms, reports, analyses, and sample documentation; analyzing water testing to identify trends and patterns.
• Training new laboratory and operations employees to aid in acquiring licenses.
• Performing housekeeping duties and tracking inventory; assisting in maintaining adequate supplies for collection and sampling; cleaning hazardous spills (mercury, etc.); washing and sterilizing glassware; and completing routine safety checks.

Minimum Qualifications

Associate degree in Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, or a related field; either three years of experience in aseptic techniques, safe laboratory practices, and testing—including bacteriological testing, physical and chemical analysis—or one year as a Laboratory Technician in a Water or Wastewater Laboratory with DeKalb County; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.

Specific License or Certification Required

Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license; and must possess and maintain a Water or Wastewater Laboratory Analyst license.