CHIEF LABORATORY TECHNICIAN

CHIEF LABORATORY TECHNICIAN

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS & PARKS

CITY OF WORCESTER

The City of Worcester seeks qualified applicants for a Chief Laboratory Technician for the Water Operations Division within the Department of Public Works & Parks.

Under the direction of the Laboratory Supervisor, this position is responsible for the management of the laboratory testing operations at the Water Filtration Plant to ensure compliance with local, State (DEP) and federal (EPA) drinking water regulations for drinking water for the City of Worcester (City).

This employee will supervise staff and ensure the completion of maintenance and upkeep, manage projects, and provide technical and safety training.

This employee is required to perform all similar or related duties.

Bilingual and multilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.

ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS :

• Responsible for the management and supervision of staff in a laboratory setting to ensure compliance with State DEP requirements for testing of drinking water at the City of Worcester's Water Filtration Plant.
• Responsible for the oversight of the laboratory including maintenance and upkeep, project management, vendor relations, and staff technical and safety training.

Responsible for the preparation and submission of all regulatory compliance reports.

• Perform data review and quality validation for all data produced by the laboratory.
• Coordinate with suppliers and subcontract labs to ensure proper testing procedures and that samples are run and reported correctly.
• Perform laboratory analysis of water samples including the login of water samples and ensuring proper storage and preservation of water samples.
• Receive and respond to requests for information from the public, local officials and state or federal officials.
• Perform routine maintenance, repair laboratory instruments, and coordinate with the service technician for ensure that lab equipment is up and running and that required supplies are ordered in support of lab operations.

Supervise the cleaning of glassware and lab area.

Required to attend training sessions to maintain required certifications / licenses and to stay abreast of updates or changes in state and federal environmental laws and regulations.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES :

• Knowledge of public drinking water treatment operations, engineering and chemistry applications and standard operating procedures including laboratory testing methods and water sampling procedures
• Knowledge of City departments and services provided
• Knowledge of office software, the Internet, social media, and web site technology in support of department operations.
• Knowledge of SCADA software programming and RS Logics programming.
• Ability to identify and resolve problems, prioritize and perform assigned tasks in a detailed, efficient and timely manner
• Ability to interact and collaborate with the public as well as department staff, consultants and local organizations
• Ability to read and interpret state and federal environmental laws and regulations
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff
• Mechanical, engineering and accounting aptitude skills
• Proficient personal computer hardware and specialized (i.e. SCADA) software and electronic skills.
• Proficient oral and written communication skills.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS :

• Associate's Degree in Chemistry or Biology or related field OR;
• An equivalent journeyman's level of trade knowledge in the field of chemistry or biology
• Three (3) years of experience work experience in a laboratory or environmental service field
• One (1) year of experience in a public drinking water laboratory

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS :

• Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry of Biology or related field
• Three (3) years of work experience in the environmental service field
• Three (3) years of experience in a public drinking water laboratory

SALARY RANGE : $30.56 - $37.28 hourly, full-time, with an excellent benefits package.

To apply, please visit : www.worcesterma.gov / employment or send resume and cover letter on or before FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2024 , to : City of Worcester, 455 Main Street, Room 109, Worcester, MA 01608.

Preference is given to Worcester residents. The City of Worcester is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply.

Direct inquiries to : City Hall, Human Resources, Room 109, 508-799-1030, HR@worcesterma.gov