Utility Technician - PGS

Water Otter Job Board; Grand Island (NE); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Water Otter Job Board is seeking a dedicated laboratory analyst to support the city's gas and water treatment operations. You will perform chemical and bacteriological tests, interpret results, and prepare reports for regulatory bodies.

You will maintain and calibrate lab equipment, train plant operators, and assist with design modifications to analytical systems while ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry or related field or equivalent
• Experience with laboratory sampling and chemical analysis techniques
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel and ability to prepare reports
• Knowledge of Federal, State and local regulations related to water quality
• Ability to work independently and follow safety protocols
• Two years of general experience in laboratory analysis or closely related field
• Willingness to obtain a Level III Water Supply Operator license within 24 months
• Strong attention to detail and record-keeping

Responsibilities

• Perform biochemical, chemical and bacteriological tests and analyses
• Interpret laboratory results and prepare routine reports for regulatory agencies
• Train plant staff in sample collection and testing procedures
• Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment and instrumentation
• Operate water purification equipment including RO and demineralizers
• Assist in sampling of process water and potable water sources
• Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and inventory
• Support design and modification of analytical systems as needed
• Answer questions from public and city departments about laboratory activities

Skills

Chemistry

Laboratory technique

Quality control

Safety practices

Data recording

MS Excel

Education

Bachelor's degree in chemistry or related field

Tools

pH meters

Ovens

Bomb calorimeter

Sulfur analyzer

Colorimeter

Atomic absorption spectrometer

Reverse osmosis

Zeolite softener

Filters

Demineralizer system

Distillation equipment

Sterilizer

Job description

Description

Perform a variety of chemical and other analyses relevant to a gas or coal-fired power plant and the Citys potable water production operation; and test and calibrate a variety of analytical laboratory equipment.

Essential Functions

• Display honest, trustworthy, and ethical behavior when dealing with internal and external customers.
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
• Regular attendance that is punctual and dependable is required.
• Collect and store samples necessary for required analyses; perform chemical tests on plant process water; interpret test results.
• Record information, results and procedures on tests run; develop forms for recording information; prepare regular reports for various regulatory agencies; monitor potable water treatment processes, water balance, and unaccounted water.
• Monitor plant compliance with State and Federal regulations; inform management staff of any violation of regulations; monitor emissions of power plants; ensure that discharge water meets the requirements of the NPDES (National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System) permit to include inputting data
• Train assigned plant operators in the collection and testing of sampled materials; instruct operators in the analysis and interpretation of test results; ensure that all operators use identical sampling and testing procedures for all analyses conducted.
• Prepare chemical additions for maximum protection of boiler, turbine and cooling tower systems.
• Perform quality control tests to ensure analytical precision of laboratory results; standardize and calibrate laboratory testing equipment.
• Operate, monitor and maintain equipment used in water purification activities; work with water softener, reverse osmosis and demineralizer systems to purify water for boiler.
• Measure ground water levels and various other readings as necessary.
• Prepare chlorine solutions for disinfecting new or existing potable water lines and reservoirs.
• Maintain laboratory and related equipment; maintain records on service, usage and repairs; order laboratory chemicals, supplies, culture media and glassware; prepare reagents from base chemicals.
• Solve problems related to laboratory analysis activities; address questions regarding laboratory activities from the public and other city departments.
• Review laboratory work processes and activities; develop methods and procedures for all required analyses; identify opportunities for improvement; review with supervisory staff; implement suggestions and improvements.
• Assist in designing analytical systems as new construction and modification of existing systems takes place; work with engineering and consulting staff in developing new systems and necessary modifications to existing systems.
• Conduct plant coal analysis; conduct laboratory tests for other City departments as requested; assist with plant laboratory related operations activities as necessary.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Knowledge of:

• Laboratory sampling and analysis techniques.
• Operation and maintenance of modern laboratory equipment.
• Principles of chemistry and chemical analysis.
• Bacteriology and related laboratory techniques.
• Mathematical principles including algebra and geometry.
• Various chemicals and their compositions including those applied to water treatment activities.
• Basic training procedures.
• Basic report preparation.
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Safety practices relating to the use of a variety of chemicals.
• Safe work practices.
• Pertinent Federal, State, and local laws, codes and regulations.

Ability To

• Perform a variety of biochemical, chemical and bacteriological tests and analyses.
• Analyze and interpret laboratory results.
• Train assigned personnel.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment used in laboratory analyses.
• Work independently in the absence of supervision.
• Perform assigned work in accordance with appropriate safety practices.
• Record and maintain accurate records.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and supplies inventory.
• Analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions and implement recommendations in support of goals.
• Operate a variety of equipment in sampling and analysis of plant process and potable water including pH meters, ovens, adiabatic bomb calorimeter, sulfur analyzer, colorimeter, atomic absorption spectrometer, reverse osmosis unit, zeolite softener, filters, demineralizer system, pulverizes, sterilizer and distillation equipment.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Interpret and apply Federal, State and local policies, procedures, laws and regulations.
• Work at high elevations.
• Must have use of arms and legs.
• Must be able to operate computer terminal and applicable programs.
• Properly wear all safety equipment.
• Must be able to see and read gauges, trouble lights and control panel screens.
• Must be able to recognize and distinguish colors.

Supplemental Information

Experience

Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

• Two years of general experience involving laboratory analysis or work in a closely related field.

Training

• Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in chemistry or a related field.

License Or Certification

• Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Grade III Water Supply Operator's license within 24 months of hire.
• Employee must possess a valid drivers license and maintain insurability as determined by the Citys insurance carrier.
• Click here to view our driver eligibility requirements.

Residency

Residency required within six (6) months of date of hire. Click