PLANT LABORATORY ANALYST- 40007881

Durham County Government employs approximately 1,900 employees that work towards providing needed services throughout the community. With a wide array of services, Durham County Government is at the heart of a rapidly growing and diverse area offering residents, employees and visitors exciting opportunities to live, work, grow and play. For more information about Durham County Government, visit www.dconc.gov.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Performs responsible technical work conducting chemical and biological tests in the County-owned Triangle Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Work is performed under regular supervision of the Utility Division Compliance Manager.

TYPICAL TASKS:

• Performs a variety of standardized laboratory tests and analysis of wastewater, raw and treated water samples, to determine efficiency of treatment;
• Collects samples from influent, RAS, oxidation ditches, effluent, from the reclaim system, upstream and downstream as required to comply with the Durham County TWWTP NPDES permit and Reclaim Permit;
• Completes the following “certified” analyses on samples:  total suspended solids, pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature, conductivity, ammonia as nitrogen, residual chlorine, and fecal coliform.
• Prepares reagents and calibrates each piece of equipment before daily use and records the information;
• Completes annual proficiency tests to maintain laboratory certification;
• Completes quality control and quality assurance with each analysis and on all new lot numbers of materials received such as fecal broth, petri dishes, filters, etc.;
• Organizes and carries out testing programs for wastewater quality control tests as required;
• Records test results on forms and maintain records;
• Reviews test results for accuracy, consistency and validity;
• Tracks inventory and maintains accurate records and chains of custody;
• Cleans and sterilizes glassware and other laboratory equipment; and

• Performs related tasks as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

General knowledge of chemical principles, terminology, techniques, equipment and laboratory tests pertaining to analysis of wastewater samples; general knowledge of the processes and treatment stages involved in wastewater treatment; general knowledge of state and federal rules and regulations related to wastewater treatment and laboratory analyses; skill in the use of a computer; skill in the operation and care of laboratory apparatus and equipment; ability to analyze and record test results; ability to prepare and maintain accurate records and reports; ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions; ability to perform mathematical calculations; and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with peers, superiors and contracting agencies.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

Any combination of education and experience equivalent to an associate degree in chemistry, biology, or a related field and one year of experience in municipal or industrial wastewater treatment, laboratory operations, wastewater systems inspection or related experience.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

Must possess a valid driver’s license issued by the State of North Carolina for the type of vehicle or equipment operated and must obtain NC Wastewater Grade I operator certification within one year of employment.

Durham County Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer