Temporary Laboratory Scientist
Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD)
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Job summary
Irvine Ranch Water District is accepting applications for a Temporary Laboratory Scientist (Microbiology) in the Water Quality Department. The part-time position runs for six months, up to 30 hours per week, with a regular schedule of Wednesdays and Fridays through Mondays, including weekends.
Responsibilities include performing routine microbiological tests on environmental samples, maintaining LIMS data, and contributing to ELAP and QA/QC programs.
Qualifications
- Equivalent to a bachelor's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biological sciences, microbiology, or a related field.
- Two (2) years of professional level laboratory experience including basic and/or routine analyses of environmental samples such as water, biosolids, solids, and air.
Responsibilities
- Performs routine laboratory tests and analyses on environmental samples.
- Sets up, calibrates, and operates a variety of laboratory instrumentation.
- Maintains and reviews laboratory data in LIMS and ensures data quality.
- Participates in ELAP and QA/QC programs; updates SOPs as assigned.
- Adheres to safety policies and conducts routine safety checks.
Skills
Education
Tools
Job description
Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) is currently accepting applications for a Temporary Laboratory Scientist (Microbiology) in the Water Quality Department.
The position is part-time and is limited to a duration of (6) months, up to 30 hours a week. The regular work schedule for this position is Wednesdays and Fridays through Mondays, including weekends, and is regularly scheduled to work Saturdays and Sundays.
Applications will be accepted until Friday, October 2, 2026, or until 100 applications have been received, whichever occurs first. Qualified candidates are encouraged to submit their applications early, as this recruitment may close prior to the stated deadline once the application limit has been reached.
IRWD is a progressive, values-driven agency, with an international reputation for its leading-edge financial management practices, water recycling program, water use efficiency practices, water banking, urban runoff treatment, and energy generation and storage. Established in 1961 as a California Water District under the provisions of the California Water Code, IRWD is an independent special district serving central Orange County. IRWD provides high-quality drinking water, reliable sewage collection and treatment, ground-breaking recycled water programs, and environmentally sound urban runoff treatment to its customers. As an independent, not-for-profit public agency, IRWD is governed by a publicly elected five-member Board of Directors. The Board is responsible for the District's policies and decision-making. Day-to-day operations are supervised by the General Manager. Additional information can be found at the District's website: www.IRWD.com.
Irvine Ranch Water District believes that its values drive the character, culture, and capacity of our organization. IRWD was built on values, and we weave them into the fabric of everything we do. Values are the ingredients in our recipe for both institutional and individual success. They are a code of conduct to promote positive outcomes for others and ourselves. They are more than words on a wall or a website. We live by them every day. We pledge to keep them relevant in an ever-changing world.
IRWD's employees enjoy working in a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment where they form strong bonds with fellow employees. To ensure effective communication and promote a collaborative team environment, employees report to work each day in the office or in the field, depending on their positions.
Under general supervision, performs various routine laboratory tests and analyses in environmental matrices including, but not limited to potable water, non-potable water, biosolids, sludges, solids, air and other environmental samples according to established laboratory procedures and regulatory requirements; analyzes and reviews internal data packages for accuracy and completeness; records data in the laboratory information management System (LIMS); performs routine maintenance and troubleshooting of laboratory methods and instrumentation.
Receives general supervision from assigned supervisory or management personnel. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.
This classification is the first of two levels in the Laboratory Scientist series. Positions at this level exercise limited discretion and independent judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied and are performed with greater independence. This class is distinguished from the Senior Laboratory Scientist in that the latter performs the more complex laboratory tests and analyses, uses advanced instrumentation and methodologies, develops and validates new test methods and techniques, and reviews the work of lower-level laboratory staff to ensure testing quality and validity.
- Performs a variety of routine chemical, biochemical, physical, and microbiological tests and analyses on environmental sample matrices such as, but not limited to, water, potable and non-potable water, biosolids, solids, sludges, air, and/or other environmental samples.
- Sets up, calibrates, and operates a variety of laboratory instrumentation and equipment; assists Senior Laboratory Scientist in operating advanced instrumentation and equipment.
- Prepares and mixes reagents, titrants, solutions, and samples used in testing and analyses following established procedures; performs quality assurance and control checks; ensures testing and equipment meet performance specifications.
- Participates in and contributes to the Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (ELAP), as well as the Laboratory’s Quality Assurance/Quality Control Program to ensure the methods, techniques, and equipment used to analyze samples produce accurate, reliable results; develops, reviews, and revises standard operating procedures (SOPS) and protocols as assigned.
- Enters and maintains laboratory records and data using LIMS; recognizes unusual laboratory results or data and notifies appropriate staff and stakeholders.
- Facilitates communication for sample pick-up/drop off with contract laboratories, enters/exports contract laboratory reported data into LIMS, and coordinates sampling schedules with field staff when assigned to sample receiving.
- Prepares and compiles and/or reviews analytical data packages and/or daily process control data sheets as assigned.
- Maintains laboratory instrumentation and equipment; performs required safety and quality control checks of instruments and equipment; coordinates repairs with vendors; maintains the laboratory in a safe and clean condition.
- Comply with safety work-related practices and attend relevant safety training. Adheres to and complies with the Laboratory and District’s Safety Policies and Procedures and completes mandatory safety trainings.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Disaster Service Worker: In accordance with Government Code Section 3100, Irvine Ranch Water District employees, in the event of a disaster, are considered disaster service workers and may be asked to respond accordingly.
Equivalent to a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in chemistry, biochemistry, biological sciences, microbiology, molecular biology, or a related field.
Two (2) years of professional level laboratory experience including conducting basic and/or routine analyses of water, non-potable water, biosolids, sludges, solids, air, and/or other environmental samples. Professional internship experience at a water or sanitation district may be considered.
- Principles, practices, techniques, equipment, and materials required for routine laboratory analyses of water, potable and non-potable water, biosolids, sludges, solids, air, and/or other environmental samples related to process control and regulatory compliance.
- Basic principles and processes of water treatment and distribution and wastewater collection and treatment.
- Operational characteristics, use of, and maintenance/calibration requirements of laboratory and sampling equipment.
- Units of measurement and concentration used in a laboratory.
- Occupational hazards and standard safety procedures related to laboratory and sampling work.
- Advanced mathematic and statistical techniques.
- Principles and procedures of record keeping, report writing, and preparation of correspondence.
- Applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to assigned areas of responsibility.
- District and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
- Techniques for providing a high level of customer service, by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and District staff.
- The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
- Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and programs, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.
- Perform a variety of routine laboratory analyses of water, potable and non-potable water, biosolids, sludges, solids, air, and/or other environmental samples.
- Exercise discretion and judgment utilizing less advanced technologies, methodologies, equipment, and instrumentation; and under close oversight from a Senior Laboratory Scientist and/or Laboratory Supervisor, exercise limited discretion and judgment on more advanced analytical technologies, methodologies, equipment, and instrumentation.
- Adhere to sampling, quality assurance/quality control, and laboratory safety programs.
- Analyze, interpret, summarize, and present technical information and data in an effective manner.
- Make accurate advanced mathematical and statistical computations.
- Establish and maintain a variety of filing, record keeping, and tracking systems.
- Prepare clear and concise reports, correspondence, documentation, and other written materials.
- Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed.
- Use tact, initiative, prudence, and judgment within general policy and procedural guidelines.
- Organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.
- Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
- Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
- Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
Must possess mobility to work in a laboratory and standard office setting and use laboratory instruments and standard office equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials, laboratory instruments, and a computer screen; color vision to read and interpret laboratory results; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone; ability to stand and walk between work areas is required. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate laboratory instruments and standard office equipment. Positions in this classification occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects up to 50 pounds with the use of proper equipment and/or assistance from other staff.
Employees work primarily in a laboratory environment with moderate to excessive noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and exposure to dust, fumes and/or allergens, biologic/infectious agents, hazardous chemicals, and unpleasant odors. Employees also work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.
Irvine Ranch Water District is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you consider yourself a person with a disability, you may contact the Human Resources Department for a reasonable accommodation.
IRWD offers a comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. These benefits include the following: retirement benefits; medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; and a variety of other benefits. Benefits may vary based on employment status. This benefits overview is intended to be a summary, is not intended to be all-inclusive, and may not be applicable to all employees. The District, in compliance with the California Public Employees' Pension Reform Act of 2012 (PEPRA), implemented a third tier for new employees hired on or after January 1, 2013. New employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 who have not been in PERS membership or in membership with a reciprocal retirement system within 6 months of hire date will receive benefits under the California Public Employees Retirement System at a 2 percent at age 62 formula. This formula gradually increases to a maximum benefits of 2.5 percent at age 67. Final compensation calculations will be based on the highest three-year average of regular recurring pay. The District pays the employer's share of these costs. The employee share of the pension cost of 7.50% is paid in full by the employees hired under this formula.
Employees hired on or after September 29, 2012 or "Classic" PERS members hired on or after January 1, 2013: On September 24, 2012, the IRWD Board of Directors approved the addition of a second tier to the CalPERS retirement benefits. New employees hired on or after September 29th through December 31, 2012, and employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 who have been in PERS membership or in membership with a reciprocal retirement system, will receive benefits under the California Public Employees Retirement System at 2 percent at age 60 formula. This formula gradually increases to a maximum benefit of 2.418% at age 63. The District pays the employer share of these costs and the employee share of the pension cost of 7% is paid in full by the employees hired under this formula. Final retirement compensation calculations are based on the highest three-year average of regular, recurring pay. IRWD does not participate or pay into Social Security except for the Medicare portion.
IRWD contracts with CalPERS for medical insurance coverage. Employees may elect coverage from a variety of PPO and HMO plans. The employee and District contribution for health insurance varies by plan. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.
IRWD contracts with Delta Dental for dental coverage. IRWD pays 100% of the premium for dental coverage for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.
IRWD contracts with the EyeMed for vision coverage. IRWD pays 100% of the premium for vision coverage for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.
Eligible employees are provided with life insurance coverage equal to three or four times their annual salary, depending on their level of compensation. Eligible dependents are also covered for a flat benefit amount. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.
Participation in a deferred compensation plan is available through Empower Retirement. Enrollment is voluntary and contributions are employee-paid and subject to IRS limits. The District matches employee contributions up to 3% of base pay after 1 year of employment.
Eligible employees begin accruing vacation benefits at the rate of 80 hours per year for the first 5 years of employment. Employees accrue 120 hours per year after 5 years of employment and 160 hours per year after 10 years of employment.
The District offers 10 scheduled paid holidays plus two (2) personal holiday per year.
Eligible employees accrue 96 hours of sick leave annually.
Eligible employees may elect to participate in the District's Flex Advantage program. This program allows employees to deposit pre‑tax dollars into special accounts to be used for a variety of purposes, including paying for qualified miscellaneous health care expenses and dependent care expenses. IRWD contracts with a third party administer to process payments from employee accounts using claim forms or a Flex Spending debit card.
The District will share in the pre-approved educational costs of tuition and books for employees who wish to attend college or take certification classes.
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