Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago

Under general supervision, makes routine chemical, biological or microbiological analyses of sewage sludge, industrial waste, water, fertilizer, and other materials produced, used or disposed of by the District or related to the District’s treatment processes.  Assists in carrying out chemical and research problems in bacteriology and in determining new or improved methods of analysis.

Essential job functions are fundamental, core functions common to positions in a classification.  They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class.  Since class specifications are designed to be descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents may complete one or all of the job duties listed or tasks of similar kind not specifically listed here.

• Assigns, supervises and reviews work of laboratory technicians; plans their work schedules.
• Leads designated work groups in carrying out their assignments.
• Monitors assigned research projects.
• Trains subordinate Lab Technicians and Lab Assistants.
• Provides input into Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Quality Assurance Plans (QAPs), as needed.
• Performs sample analysis according to defined procedures; conducts analysis of special samples or samples that may require difficult and precise preparation using various instruments.
• Inspects and tests laboratory equipment to determine the need for repair or adjustment; performs or recommends required maintenance or replacement by contacting vendors.
• Calculates and collates results of work performed and prepares reports as directed including preparation of analysis data in specialized formats.
• Monitors workflow throughout the laboratory.

• Maintains repair log and inventory log of laboratory equipment and supplies.
• Assembles and operates laboratory apparatus for analytical or research work.
• Prepares calibration standards and reagents.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

May involve exposure to a variety of chemical and biological materials, some of which may be hazardous or toxic.  May involve exposure to fumes and noxious odors.

• Knowledge of metric weights, measures, and scientific terminology.
• Thorough knowledge of safe laboratory techniques and procedures.
• Knowledge of Quality Assurance/Quality Control principles.
• Skill in the manipulation and use of laboratory equipment, glassware and instruments.
• Strong ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to perform basic arithmetic calculations.
• Ability to maintain accurate logs and records.
• Ability to plan and coordinate the work of others.

 

Graduation from a standard senior high school or the equivalent, two years of full-time study at an accredited college or university majoring in chemistry, biology, or a science curriculum involving chemical or biological laboratory work, and three years of full-time paid experience in a chemical or biological laboratory preparing laboratory apparatus and performing routine analysis.

Additional full-time study at an accredited college or university majoring in chemistry, biology or a science curriculum involving chemical or biological laboratory work may be substituted for the required experience on a year-for-year basis. Full-time paid experience in a chemical or biological laboratory performing analyses, such as BOD, COD, suspended solids, pH, standard tests on oils and greases, or other similar routine analyses, may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis.

• One year of service with the District as a Laboratory Technician or Environmental Research Technician.
• Civil service status in one of the foregoing classifications.