Lab Analyst

We are currently seeking a Laboratory Analyst to join our team. A Laboratory Analyst contributes to the comprehensive analytical laboratory services program for Eagle River Water & Sanitation District. This position is responsible for laboratory activities that consist primarily of regulatory compliance testing for the Water and Wastewater Divisions. Samples are also analyzed for process control, special investigations and other studies as required. Laboratory operations must be in compliance with EPA and State of Colorado regulations and produce legally defensible data. This is an entry- level Laboratory Analyst position and will report to the Laboratory and Regulatory Compliance Supervisor. This role may receive day to day direction from the Lead Laboratory Analyst, as well as functional and technical guidance from more experienced Technicians and Analysts.

An ideal candidate for this role is organized, kind, detail oriented, and has strong prioritization skills. This is a great opportunity for a qualified Laboratory professional who is looking to grow their experience and contribute to the effectiveness of a small team.  

And the best part: you provide an essential service to the community while working in a science based and constantly evolving field. Not to mention our excellent benefits, housing program and opportunities for training, certification and development.

·        Performs analysis of drinking water, wastewater, surface water and other samples including, but not limited to, the following:

·        Microbiological analyses such as coliform presence/absence tests, E.coli MPNs, heterotrophic plate count, wastewater microbiological investigations, and water suitability tests.

·        Physical analyses such as pH, temperature, conductance, total dissolved solids, suspended solids, volatile suspended solids, % solids, and % volatile solids.

·        Chemical analyses such as hexavalent chromium, alkalinity, dissolved oxygen, total hardness, chlorine residual, total phosphorus, total nitrogen, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, simplified TKN, and chemical oxygen demand.

·        Biochemical analysis such as BODs and cBODs.

·        Low level nutrient analysis using the Lachat for ammonia, nitrate plus nitrite, total phosphorus, ortho-phosphorus, and total nitrogen.

·        Responsible for conducting compliance testing on routine wastewater analysis and helping with water quality studies.

·        Accurately records, calculates and enters laboratory data using Sample Master, Excel, and SharePoint.

·        Conducts field work including documentation, calibrating field instruments, and entering waterways to collect samples for various projects.

·        Dispose of chemical waste safely.

·        Prepares various reagents, solutions, agars, and media.

·        Cleans glassware and participates in the routine cleaning of the lab.

·        LIMS user: confident use in software functionality, ability to enter and validate data, and is capable in creating reports, invoicing, data analysis, etc…

 

·        Calibrates and maintains operation of equipment including pH meters, Lachat, conductivity meters, dissolved oxygen meters, automatic titrators, balances, ovens, furnaces, burets, pipettes, incubators, autoclaves, reverse osmosis water unit, pumps, and other equipment, as needed.

·        Responsible for preliminary investigation, minor repair, and communication of problems involving instruments, methods, samples, sample containers, and documentation.

·        Clean, maintain and care for equipment, materials and the laboratory environment in a safe manner.

·        Perform servicing and preventative maintenance work on laboratory equipment.

 

·        Responds to questions from the general public and District personnel. May respond to complaints and requests for information from the public.

·        Logs in and checks samples for proper sampling and documentation as required by Best Laboratory Practices (BLPs).

 

·        Produces reports as requested.

·        Identifies unusual results and report findings to operators and Laboratory and Regulatory Compliance Supervisor.

·        Required to follow all District safety and security policies and wear Personal Protective Equipment as required by the job duties.

·        Participates in committees as required.

·        Works collaboratively with all departments and district staff. Demonstrates a willingness to work independently in a team environment. Demonstrates a strong work ethic, integrity, positive attitude and is a team player.

·        Respectfully communicates with peers and the public. Demonstrates tact and professionalism in communication.

·        Embraces district mission, vision, and values.

·        Other duties as assigned.

 

·        Education requirements may be meet by the following:

o   High School Diploma or GED with 3 years of water and/or wastewater laboratory experience

o   Associates Degree in a science related field with 1 year of water and/or wastewater laboratory experience

o   Completion of 2 years of college with major course work in science and 1 years of water and/or wastewater laboratory experience

o   Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, or a science related field, no experience required

·        Experience utilizing a Laboratory Information Management system (LIMS) and troubleshooting Lachat instruments is preferred.

·        Experience with technical laboratory equipment including, but not limited to, Lachat is desirable.

·        Demonstrates knowledge of the physical, chemical and microbiological laboratory techniques, as well as basic lab procedures including proper sampling procedures (clean hands, preservation, and storage); methods of handling, storing, and disposal of hazardous chemicals and wastes; operational characteristics and maintenance needs of analytical instrumentation and laboratory equipment; troubleshooting analytical or instrumentation procedures; principles and best laboratory practices for quality control and assurance.

·        Must be able to safely prepare reagents, perform equipment calibrations, and operate laboratory equipment; perform tests accurately and precisely and keep accurate records; recognize atypical results, perform preliminary investigations, and report findings.

·        Must be 18 years or older.

·        Proven customer service skills and the ability to work productively with minimal direct supervision.

·        Ability to calculate figures and amounts as dictated by data requirements. Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.

·        Excellent communications skills (both written and verbal) are essential. Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of the organization. This position works closely with customers, coworkers, other departments, and regulatory agencies.

·        Computer proficiency required, including basic Microsoft Office skills including Word, Outlook and Excel.

·        Ability to use office equipment such as phone systems, copier, and fax machine, and radio system required.

·        Must possess a valid Colorado Driver's license and be insurable under District's standards.

·        Must obtain CPR/First Aid Certification within the first six (6) months of employment.

The pay range for a Lab Analyst I is $22.82 - $31.97. Hiring range depends on qualifications. A Lab Analyst I will have the opportunity to progress into a Lab Analyst II role with certification and skills development. The pay range for a Lab Analyst II is $25.10 - $35.16.

Comprehensive benefits package including health benefits, wellness program, retirement, housing program, and more available to all full-time, year-round employees. Click HERE to learn more.

All District employees must submit to a pre-employment drug screen and extensive background check.

For a full job description (including physical requirement and work environment), email erwsdjobs@erwsd.org

All applicants must apply online by July 27, 2021 in order to be considered.

We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information or any other status protected by law or regulation. It is our intention that all qualified applicants be given equal opportunity and that selection decisions are based on job-related factors.