Utility Technician - PGS

City-of-Grand-Island,-Ne; Grand Island (NE); On-site; USD 40,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Grand Island, Nebraska is seeking a Laboratory Technician to perform chemical and bacteriological analyses for gas, coal-fired plants and potable water operations. You will calibrate equipment, prepare reagents, and ensure accurate test results while complying with state and federal regulations.

The role requires two years of laboratory experience, a Bachelor's degree in chemistry or related field, and a valid water operator license within 24 months of hire.

Qualifications

• Two years of general experience involving laboratory analysis or work in a closely related field.
• Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in chemistry or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Perform a variety of biochemical, chemical and bacteriological tests and analyses.
• Prepare chemical additions for boiler, turbine and cooling tower systems for maximum protection.
• Standardize and calibrate laboratory testing equipment; maintain and repair lab instruments.

Skills

Laboratory sampling

Analytical testing

Record keeping

Microsoft Word/Excel

Education

Bachelor's degree in chemistry or related field

Tools

Atomic absorption spectrometer

Colorimeter

Bomb calorimeter

pH meters

Reverse osmosis/demineralizer systems

Job description

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

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

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.

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:

Experience:

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 driver’s license and maintain insurability as determined by the City’s insurance carrier.

Residency:

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

Salary:

Position will start at the entry level of the City's salary table. Consideration may be given if experience exceeds entry level qualifications.

Working Hours:

Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Residency:

All Production Division Personnel must live within a 30-minute driving distance of 1035 W. Wildwood Dr, Grand Island, Nebraska. The shortest route available on Google maps will be used to determine commute time.

Salary:

Position will start at the entry level of the City's salary table. Consideration may be given if experience exceeds entry level qualifications.

Other:

Candidates are subject to a background check.