City of Tampa

This is work involving laboratory testing and analysis.

An employee in this class is responsible for performing tasks of average difficulty involving laboratory testing and analysis of wastewater samples. Under general supervision, the employee is required to exercise some initiative and independent judgment in the performance of assigned tasks. Some positions require the employee to participate in field activities that might involve public contact. Work is reviewed through conferences, observation, reports submitted, and results obtained.

Performs bacteriological, biological, and chemical analysis of wastewater during various stages of processing; conducts bacteriological tests, reads culture plates, and identifies organisms present; tests wastewater samples for chlorine, alkalinity, hardness, pH, iron, aluminum, color, turbidity, calcium, magnesium, sulphates, chlorides, sulfides, nitrates, phosphates, total dissolved solids, and specific conductivity.

Performs daily analysis of sludge processing and documents; takes pH of influent, effluent, digesters, raw sludges, etc.

Collects samples of raw and finished wastewater, wells in operation and top and bottom filter, and divides for weekly, monthly, and quarterly analysis; performs testing in the laboratory; evaluates, records results, and recommends corrective measures.

Runs quality control analysis on incoming lime shipments for proper specifications; checks the accuracy of lab analyses; conducts quality control tests.

Prepares and sterilizes equipment, solutions, media, and reagents for chemical, biological, and/or bacteriological sampling, testing, and analysis; cleans laboratory; checks and cleans equipment used; performs maintenance of equipment.

Drives vehicle to field sites.

Prepares time reports, requisitions and forms; operates computer for data collection and record keeping; participates in on-the-job training to improve skill; trains others in standard operating procedures.

Performs related work as required.

Working knowledge of: practices, methods, tools, and equipment utilized in laboratory testing analysis; sampling, testing, and analysis techniques. Some knowledge of: chemical and/or biological analysis; water quality monitoring procedures; occupational hazards, appropriate precautions and methods of promoting safety. Ability to: communicate effectively both orally and in writing, and prepare reports; operate and maintain laboratory testing and analysis equipment; interpret basic scientific data; establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the general public. Skill in: the operation and maintenance of laboratory testing and analysis equipment; operation of a lightweight motor vehicle.

Graduation from an accredited high school, supplemented by college courses in chemistry, bacteriology or biology, and one (1) year of experience in laboratory work; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

Possession of a valid Florida driver's license required.

Employees may be required to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays and overtime as needed. During periods when the Mayor issues an emergency declaration for the City of Tampa, all employees may be required to work in preparation, response or recovery activities related to the stated emergency.