FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt

PAY RANGES: TECH I ($41,144.00 - $68,573.00), TECH II ($47,316.00 - $78,860.00), TECH III ($54,414.00 - $90,689.00)

REPORTS TO: Lab Lead Technician

DIVISION: Environmental Science

WORK LOCATION: GBRA Laboratory/ Seguin, TX

SUMMARY

Perform routine chemical, bacteriological, and physical analyses on samples of raw and treated potable water and wastewater. Data from completed analyses are entered into a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and are then sent via laboratory report to customers for personal or permitting use.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Laboratory Technicians:

• Follow current laboratory Quality Assurance System Manual (QASM), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and supervisory memorandums at all times.
• Transport customer and/or laboratory samples to and from destinations on a weekly schedule or as needed.
• Prepare chemical reagents and standards for assigned parameters as needed.
• Perform assigned analyses with an initial focus on wet chemistry, gravimetric tests, and microbiology testing.
• Receive samples to the laboratory following sample acceptance procedures.
• Calculate, record and report test results using a LIMS database.
• Maintain orderly work benches including proper cleaning and storage of equipment.
• Maintain orderly data records and instrument logs.
• Maintain an inventory of supplies for assigned parameters and coordinate ordering additional supplies when needed.
• Perform quarterly volume measuring device checks as required for quality assurance.
• Perform other functions such as field work/sample collection, upkeep of thermometer and balance records, supply stocking, tracking and unloading, etc.
• Validate and review analytical reports.
• Perform Chain of Custody (COC) reviews.
• Perform microbiological testing during on call weekends.
• Performs other specific duties as assigned.

Technician II:

• Perform all essential duties and responsibilities of a Laboratory Technician I.
• Schedule preventative maintenance (PM) for instrumentation.
• Perform analysis with a focus on basic automatic instrumentation – must demonstrate competency with such instrumentation.
• Write and/or update existing SOPs as assigned.
• Assist customers with payment as needed.
• Assist sample receiving with sample login as needed.
• Validate and review subcontract data.
• Other Technician I duties and/or requirements may include:

          o Serve as safety officer or assist the safety officer on a constant basis.

          o Asist the Quality Assurance Officer (QAO) with Certificates of Analysis (COA) reviews.

          o be able to request quotes for equipment or consumables.

          o serve on a GBRA committee or mission involvement.

Technician III:

• Perform all essential duties and responsibilities of a Technician I and II.
• Perform analysis with a focus on advanced instrumentation – must demonstrate competency with such instrumentation.
• Review quality control charts (QC Charts).
• Review COAs.
• Ensure that daily weights and daily temperatures are logged for the work day.
• Other Technician II duties and/or requirements may include:

          o Perform method development as needed.

          o Attend to committee meetings and/or conferences.

          o Review microbiological reporting forms (MRFs) as needed.

          o Assist in the administration of performance testing (PTs) as needed.

          o Review quarterly volume measuring device checks as needed.

          o Represent GBRA at booths, lab tours, community/school events as needed.

          o Meet the Technical Manager requirements for at least one area of the laboratory.

          o Assist with thermometer calibration/annual verifications as needed.

          o Assist with the LIMS Task Manager as needed.

          o Assist with phone calls as needed.

          o Assist with onboarding new equipment as needed.

          o Approve chemistry and microbiological testing results as needed.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Understanding of basic chemical properties and reactions.
• Knowledge of unit conversions.
• Attention to detail to precisely follow procedures.
• Technical writing skills.
• Adhere to safety guidelines and protocols.
• Hand-eye coordination, finger dexterity, depth perception and color vision are necessary.
• Respond to visual and audible alarms.
• Operate a motor vehicle.
• Communicate effectively with co-workers, customers, vendors and auditors.
• Follow GBRA policies and procedures at all times.

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS

Education:

Bachelor of Science degree in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, medical technology or any discipline deemed acceptable by management.

Registrations and Licenses:

Texas Driver’s License/Acceptable M.V.R.

EXPERIENCE/REQUIREMENTS

Laboratory Technician I:

Experience in a professional laboratory or working in a college laboratory is preferred but is not a requirement. Must have a general working knowledge of computer programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel and Access.

Technician II:

Must have at least two years of experience in a professional laboratory. Must have a general working knowledge of computer programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel and Access and be familiar with use of LIMS.

Technician III:

Must have at least five years of experience in a professional laboratory. Must have a general working knowledge of computer programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel and Access and be familiar with use of LIMS.

Other Requirements:

· Must be able to interpret and accurately follow written standard operating procedures.

· Must be familiar with the latest editions of the following:

          o Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater.

          o Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Methods for Chemical Analysis of Water and Wastes.

          o Texas Commission on Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Conference (NELAC) Institute (TNI) Standard.

· Must be familiar with the following regulations:

          o Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) guidelines.

          o EPA 40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Clean Water Act, Drinking Water Act and Guidelines Establishing Test

              Procedures for the Analysis of Pollutants.

          o Texas Administrative Code (TAC) Title 30 Environmental Quality.

          o The National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (NELAP).

· Experience with the following equipment is helpful, not required:

          o Various laboratory analytical instruments and associated computer software.

          o Vacuum pumps.

          o Incubators, Ovens and Furnace at temperatures varying from 20°C-550°C.

MANAGERIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

None.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/TRAVEL/WORKING CONDITIONS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Standard physical activity such as periodic standing, walking, sitting, and basic motor skills to operate necessary computer programs. Stamina for standing for long periods of time at work benches. Physical strength to lift forty-five pounds overhead. Wear personal protective equipment which may include a full-face respirator.

The majority of the work is performed in climate controlled, well-lit conditions. Some field work may be required. Weekend hours may be occasionally required. When in the field, employees must wear protective footwear in compliance with ANSI or ASTM standard. New employees are provided footwear in compliance with ANSI or ASTM standard. Replacement footwear is provided annually for qualifying employees.

Travel:

Overnight travel to professional seminars and operating divisions of the GBRA is occasionally required.