Water Quality Technician

Posting number: 26SEP7986 O

Department: Public Works Department

Division: PW - Environmental

Job classification: Water Quality Technician

Posting type: Open

Categories: Environmental Services, Water Treatment, Wastewater

Summary

Career Opportunity

The city of Las Vegas invites applicants for Water Quality Technician. This position collects and performs routine laboratory tests on wastewater, groundwater, surface water, and other samples for physical, biological and chemical components; enters and evaluates data for reporting purposes and process control decisions; prepares a variety of analytical reports; and performs a variety of other technical tasks relative to area of responsibility.

Supervision Received

Receives general supervision from the Environmental Laboratory & Compliance Manager or higher level management staff.

May receive technical instruction and direction from Chemists, Biologists or other lead level classifications.

Examination ProcessA civil service examination will be conducted in accordance with the Civil Service Rules of the city of Las Vegas. The supplemental questions are the examination. Falsification of information may result in disqualification from a recruitment or removal from a city position. Additional information will not be accepted after the closing date. The supplemental questions are weighted 100% for placement on an eligible list, and must be worked on individually by the applicant only. The supplemental questions of all qualified applicants will be reviewed for placement on an eligible list.

Eligible List
You must score 70% or higher on the examination to be placed on the eligible list. The eligible list will remain in effect for a period of 6 months from the date of certification and may be extended for a period of up to 2 years.

Selection ProcessFinal candidate selection will include list placement and may include hiring interview and assessment (if applicable). Any individual offered employment will be required to pass a pre-employment drug test, complete background check, and may be required to demonstrate the ability to perform the physical requirements of the job. Some positions may require preliminary background checks. The purpose of this recruitment is to establish an eligible list for current and/ or future openings which may include part-time or full-time positions.

Examples of duties

Essential Functions

1. Receives samples as they arrive in the laboratory; checks samples for proper identification and condition; records any irregularities or other relevant data concerning sample receipt and analyses to be performed.
2. Maintains complete chain of custody of laboratory samples; observes holding times, preservation techniques, and ensures samples are properly stored and disposed of for ongoing sample integrity.
3. Collects limnological samples and measures physical parameters as necessary onboard a boat at Lake Mead.
4. Collects a variety of limnological, wastewater treatment process control and permit compliance samples according to regulatory requirements and good laboratory practice standards.
5. Conducts routine physical, chemical, biological and field analyses on water; wastewater and sludge samples according to standardized procedures.
6. Performs calculations and evaluates results prior to reporting; completes documentation; enters data into LIMS and spreadsheets.
7. Assists Chemist and Biologists in water quality or bacteriological research by conducting various tests on water and sludge samples.
8. Prepares standard chemical solutions and reagents needed to perform chemical analysis, ensuring that expired solutions and reagents are discarded in the proper manner.
9. Operates, calibrates, repairs and cleans laboratory and field testing equipment following standard procedures.
10. Performs laboratory duties such as unpacking and putting away supplies, restocking benches and organizing supplies, stock rooms, and glassware.
11. Cleans glassware and equipment; performs laboratory housekeeping.
12. Performs peer review of laboratory data, verifying completion of bench sheets and correct data input into LIMS and other spreadsheets.
13. May provide training to less experienced staff in routine sampling, testing procedures and associated duties.

Marginal Functions

1. Assists with bioassay process.
2. Operates boat according to proper procedure.
3. Operates City vehicle for official business purposes.
4. Performs related duties and responsibilities as required.

Qualifications

Experience

One year of experience with environmental sample collection or conducting a variety of tests in a physical, chemical or biological laboratory is desirable.

Experience operating a boat is desirable.

Training

Two years of college level course and laboratory work in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science or related field.

May substitute a combination of equivalent education and related experience. The city assesses 1.5 years of fulltime experience as equivalent to one year of education.

Any work experience, paid internships, work study, or volunteer assignments in the area of water quality is acceptable.

Licenses and Certifications

Possession of an appropriate, valid driver's license within 6 months of appointment, and maintenance thereafter.

Possession of a State of Nevada Division of Wildlife Safe Boating certificate within 6 months of the date of appointment, and maintenance thereafter.

Possession of a Wastewater Quality Analyst Restricted certificate from the Nevada Water Environment Association within 9 months of the date of appointment. Possession of a Grade 1 Wastewater Quality Analyst certificate from the Nevada Water Environment Association within 1 year of the date of appointment.

Possession of a Grade 2 Wastewater Quality Analyst certificate from the Nevada Water Environment Association within 2 years of the date of appointment, and maintenance thereafter.

Supplemental information

Knowledge of

Environmental sampling procedures, sampling equipment and field equipment.

Modern laboratory techniques, methods, equipment, terminology and procedures.

Word processing, spreadsheet, graphing and database software.

Principles of chemical and physical analysis.

Pertinent federal, state and local laws, codes and regulations.

Occupational hazards and standard safety practices.

Skills in

Conducting routine mathematical calculations.

Preparing a variety of standards and reagents used in a water or wastewater bacteriological laboratory.

Learning the pertinent federal, state and local laws, codes and regulations.

Swimming at a sufficient level to ensure personal safety while taking samples on Lake Mead.

Operating a boat according to proper procedure.

Using computers and a variety of computer software programs.

Preparing clear, concise and technical reports.

Communicating clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work including city officials and the general public.

Competencies

Core Workforce Competencies

Professionalism... Demonstrates core values by being honest, respectful and positive.

Effective Communication... Expresses verbal and written thought in a clear and understandable manner.

Customer Focus... Demonstrates genuine concern and satisfies external and/or internal customers based on the CLV core purpose and values.

Adaptability... Able to effectively modify behavior to suit changing workforce demands.

Problem Solving... Solves problems by considering all causes, solutions and outcomes.

Productive Partnerships... Develops, maintains and strengthens partnerships with others.

Technical and Safety Expertise... Possesses a depth of knowledge, skill and ability in a technical (job) area.