Environmental Chemist/Microbiologist

General Summary

The Chemist / Microbiologist performs chemical and microbiological procedures requiring the use of basic to advanced laboratory instrumentation.

This position provides technical support to laboratory staff and performs related duties as required. Essential Functions

• Serves as a subject matter expert for Laboratory staff
• Uses instrumentation such as GFAA, ICP, Hg Analyzers, Flow Injection Analyzers, BOD Analyzers, TOC Analyzers, Sulfate Analyzers, ICP-MS, UV VIS, COD Analyzers, FlowCAM, Microscopes, GC, or other technical equipment for the determination of microbiological organisms, physical properties, metals, and inorganic and organic chemical constituents
• Performs a variety of analyses, reviews data to ensure all required quality control standards are met, and uploads data to the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)
• Monitors, reviews, evaluates, and validates data produced by analysts to detect or assess problems and to determine compliance with acceptable standards
• Performs and oversees the preparation of samples for subsequent analyses, including filtration, digestion, and extraction
• Provides cross-training and guidance to laboratory personnel on instrumentation, procedures, and methodologies
• Assists in achieving compliance with new regulations that may affect WSSC Water’s water and wastewater treatment facilities
• Prepares and maintains reports to validate data and satisfy the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) requirements for environmental test procedures
• Provides technical advice and assistance to the Laboratory Operations Section Manager or Laboratory Division Manager
• Researches new technological advancements in instrumentation and methodologies for laboratory use
• Conducts special projects research for the Laboratory Operations Section Manager or Laboratory Division Manager
• Successfully analyzes quarterly and annual Proficiency Testing samples for assigned analyses
• Updates all required laboratory QA / QC and safety records at pre-scheduled intervals
• Assists in writing and updating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Performs routine preventative maintenance on analytical instrumentation
• Assists Sr Chemist / Microbiologist with sample preparation
• Assists Laboratory Analysts I and II when workloads demand
• Assists Sr. Chemist / Microbiologist with research and development of new methodologies
• Drives a vehicle to conduct WSSC Water business

Other Functions

• Serves on interview panels for selection of laboratory staff
• Assists in investigations of customer concerns and questions
• Assists in conducting visitor tours of the laboratory facility
• Aids laboratory personnel in keeping the laboratory area safe, neat, and clean
• Maintains sample storage areas including rotating storage areas and final disposal of samples
• Participates in Stand-by and Call Back Program
• Performs related duties as assigned

Work Environment And Physical Demands Work is performed in a laboratory environment Required Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of theories and practices in the fields of chemistry, microbiology, or biology which are applied in analytical techniques
• Skill in the operation of analytical instrumentation including routine maintenance and minor repairs
• Skill in operating Hg, Flow Injection, BOD, TOC, COD, Sulfate analyzers, GC, ICP, ICP-MS, UV VIS, GFAA, FlowCAM, and microscopes
• Skill in operating basic instrumentation such as pH, Conductivity, Turbidity, and IonSelective Meters, Balances, Autoclaves, Spectrophotometers, Ovens, Auto-Titrators, and Digestion Blocks
• Skill in the use of laboratory computer programs including instrument software and LIMS
• Knowledge of principles, practices, methods, and techniques of sample collection and preparation per State and Federal guidelines
• Knowledge of EPA (Safe Drinking Water Act and Clean Water Act) and MDE applicable regulations and guidelines
• Knowledge of environmental SOPs, EPA Approved Methods, and Standard Methods procedures
• Thorough knowledge of proper laboratory procedures and good laboratory practices (GLP)
• Knowledge of Safety Data Sheets, Laboratory Safety procedures, and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• Ability to expand knowledgebase to gain efficiency in new procedures and disciplines
• Ability to prepare comprehensive analytical reports and interpret test results
• Ability to accurately perform chemical, bacteriological, or biological tests with required acceptable quality control
• Ability to train Laboratory personnel within their designated scope of knowledge, skills, and abilities
• Ability to follow complex verbal and written instructions
• Ability to guide and oversee the work of junior staff
• Ability to effectively prioritize work and manage time to meet tight deadlines and continuous rush orders
• Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing
• Ability to interact with internal and external customers effectively and professionally

Minimum Education, Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree
• 4+ years of laboratory experience that includes : 3+ years progressively responsible environmental laboratory experience performing routine wet chemistry, microbiology, and advanced analyses of water and wastewater1+ years of quality assurance program experience

Additional Requirements

• Possession of a valid driver’s license, with no more than 4 points, and the ability to obtain and maintain a WSSC Water driver’s permit within 90 days of hire or transfer date
• Valid Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) Sampler’s License (must be obtained within six months of employment and be retained for duration in position)
• Obtain MDE approval for one drinking water method (inorganic, organic, or microbiology) within 6 months of employment
• Must maintain valid driver’s license, Water Sampler Certification, and MDE method approval for duration in the position
• Able to work nights, weekends, and holidays
• Employees in this position are designated or considered emergency personnel; therefore, the employee must report to work as scheduled or as directed by their supervisor when WSSC Water declares an event that requires emergency personnel to report to work

Preferences Additional experience is helpful. Salary $62,961 - $107,034