Laboratory Field Sampling Technician or Laboratory Analyst II
Collects raw, partially treated or treated water and other environmental samples for laboratory and field analysis. An employee in this position is responsible for properly collecting samples from the distribution and treatment systems, performing routine laboratory tests and maintaining paperwork. This position works closely with Analysts, Scientists and reports to the Laboratory Division Manager.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Tasks and responsibilities which are common to the Laboratory Field Sampling Technician positions include:
- Drives an Authority vehicle to various sites throughout the service area to collect and deliver samples of raw, partially treated and treated water following guidelines for routine and special samples as requested. Collects other samples as required.
- Communicates with owners/managers of sampling sites. Identifies and recommends new sample sites.
- Prepares sample containers for sampling events.
- Labels sample containers with identifying data, location of sample, and time collected.
- Delivers samples to laboratory for analysis and enters sampling data into a database.
- Cleans sample containers and utensils.
- Gather samples at specified locations, stages of processing, and time interval.
- Assist in preparing chemical and bacteriological media, stains, reagents, and test solutions routinely used in the laboratory.
- Operates equipment and performs routine chemical, bacteriological, and physical tests under direct supervision as assigned.
- Prepares or assists in preparation of reports.
- Cleans, maintains, and stores instruments and equipment.
- Performs custodial duties in the laboratory.
- Performs vehicle inspections and minor preventative maintenance.
- Works overtime shifts as required.
- Performs additional related duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Knowledge of safe driving principles
- Some knowledge of the principles and techniques of chemistry and bacteriology
- Some knowledge of basic office practices and office software (i.e. Word, Excel, etc.)
- Ability to learn laboratory procedures and practices
- Ability to apply scientific knowledge in performing laboratory tests
- Ability to work independently following established procedures
- Ability to comprehend the use and limitations of personal protective equipment used during sampling events and lab analyses
- Skill in using a computer
- Skill in operating a motor vehicle
- Skill in communication, interpersonal skills as applied to interaction and maintaining effective working relationships with coworkers, supervisors and the general public
Minimum Qualifications Required (Laboratory Field Sampling Technician):
- High school diploma or GED required supplemented by classes in biology and chemistry or any combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities required for the position.
- Requires Georgia Driver's License with a good driving record and must maintain a good driving record to be allowed to continue employment with the Authority.
- Must obtain a State of Georgia certification as a Laboratory Analyst within 18 months of hire date or forfeit employment.
Minimum Qualifications Required (Laboratory Analyst II):
- High school diploma or GED supplemented by major coursework in chemistry, biology or closely related field required.
- One (1) year of experience in water laboratory work or any reasonable combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities for the position.
- Requires Georgia Driver's License with a good driving record and must maintain a good driving record to be allowed to continue employment with the Authority.
- Knowledge of safe driving principles.
- Must possess and maintain a State of Georgia certification as a Laboratory Analyst.
Work Environment
- The employee occasionally works in precarious places and in outside weather conditions and is occasionally exposed to wet and/or extreme heat or cold temperatures.
- While performing this job the employee frequently works on or near open basins of water, near odors, chemicals and fumes.
- The employee may come into contact with insects and snakes.
- The noise level in the work environment can be loud.
- The Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority is a drug-free workplace.
Physical Demands
- While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to handle or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk, hear, taste, smell and see.
Salary Ranges
Laboratory Field Sampling Technician: $40,850.72 - $59,233.55
Laboratory Analyst II: $45,240.90 - $70,123.40