Laboratory Service Water Quality Analyst

City of Cedar Rapids, IA; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Cedar Rapids is seeking a Lab Services Water Quality Analyst to support environmental monitoring and analytical testing for drinking water and wastewater treatment. You will perform sample collection, lab analyses, QA/QC, and data entry to ensure safe, high-quality water for the community.

The role involves calibrating instruments, maintaining reagents, and entering data into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).

Qualifications

• Two years of post High School education in chemistry, biology or general science and a minimum of one year experience in analytical laboratory procedures preferably in the field of water quality analyses; or
• Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge and abilities necessary to perform the work.

Responsibilities

• Participates in sampling program assignments which consists of manual collection of samples from specified point sources and samples delivery to the designated laboratory for processing
• Performs a variety of analytical determinations, physical measurements and bacteriological assays
• Utilizes laboratory instrumentation and other equipment as related to work assignments
• Calibrates and maintains on-line process analyzers
• Prepares chemical reagents/standards and bacteriological media
• Keeps and maintains work records pertaining to respective assignments and related QA/QC protocols
• Enters daily data pertaining to work assignments into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)
• Performs peer review of fellow analyst analytical data output
• Participates in training and cross training activities and related practices
• Communicates shortages of laboratory supplies to the Laboratory Services Manager
• Documents and reports to the Laboratory Services Manager unusual problems and/or safety issues encountered on any work
• Performs housekeeping tasks as assigned
• Adheres to work schedule, assignments and analytical procedures and related protocols
• Performs all work duties and activities in accordance with City policies and follow established rules and regulations
• Adheres to prescribed safety practices, wears and properly uses safety equipment including personal protective and gas detection equipment
• Participates in staff meetings and training sessions
• Attends work regularly at the designated place and time
• Supports continuous process improvement initiatives
• Performs related work as required.

Skills

Analytical laboratory procedures

Water quality analysis

Education

Two years post-secondary education in chemistry, biology or general science

Job description

Join a team that protects Cedar Rapids' most essential resource—clean water. The City's Utilities Department is looking for a detail-oriented and dedicated Lab Services Water Quality Analyst to perform environmental monitoring and analytical testing that helps maintain safe, high-quality drinking water and wastewater treatment. From sample collection to lab analysis and data entry, your work will directly support public health and environmental stewardship in our community every day.

About our Organization

At the City, we are committed to employing individuals who reflect our community's diverse backgrounds and this position is crucial in the success and strategic direction of a growing and evolving community. We appreciate and leverage the vast experience individuals bring beyond the technical requirements of a job. Experience and skills combined with commitment to our core values is key to building a greater community now and for the next generation.

About our Community

Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Cedar Rapids is our vibrant and diverse community known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Our city has a strong sense of community which can be seen at any of our numerous parks, recreational opportunities, and family-friendly events year round. You can also explore our thriving downtown district, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, or take a stroll along the Cedar River, which runs through the heart of the city.

About the Position

Provides environmental monitoring and analytical services to sustain the continuity of water quality programs at the wastewater and drinking water treatment facilities. Work is performed under general supervision, with the ability to exercise discretion in selection of work method and schedule.

The City of Cedar Rapids does not offer sponsorship for employment authorization.

• Participates in sampling program assignments which consists of manual collection of samples from specified point sources and samples delivery to the designated laboratory for processing;
• Performs a variety of analytical determinations, physical measurements and bacteriological assays;
• Utilizes laboratory instrumentation and other equipment as related to work assignments;
• Calibrates and maintains on-line process analyzers;
• Prepares chemical reagents/standards and bacteriological media;
• Keeps and maintains work records pertaining to respective assignments and related QA/QC protocols;
• Enters daily data pertaining to work assignments into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS);
• Performs peer review of fellow analyst analytical data output;
• Participates in training and cross training activities and related practices;
• Communicates shortages of laboratory supplies to the Laboratory Services Manager;
• Documents and reports to the Laboratory Services Manager unusual problems and/or safety issues encountered on any work;
• Performs housekeeping tasks as assigned;
• Adheres to work schedule, assignments and analytical procedures and related protocols;
• Performs all work duties and activities in accordance with City policies and follow established rules and regulations;
• Adheres to prescribed safety practices, wears and properly uses safety equipment including personal protective and gas detection equipment;
• Participates in staff meetings and training sessions;
• Attends work regularly at the designated place and time;
• Supports continuous process improvement initiatives;
• Performs related work as required.

Acceptable Experience and Training:

• Two years of post High School education in chemistry, biology or general science and a minimum of one year experience in analytical laboratory procedures preferably in the field of water quality analyses; or
• Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge and abilities necessary to perform the work.

Required Special Qualifications:

• Valid U.S. Driver’s License upon appointment.

Mon - Fri 7am - 3:30pm with rotating weekends and holidays