Senior Chemist (Dallas Water Utilities - PALS)

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A competitive salary, five-year vested pension plan, great benefits package that includes health, vision and dental insurance, pet insurance, tuition reimbursement, qualifying childcare assistance, paid time off and more.

Join our diverse workforce and help us in providing excellent service to the residents of Dallas while building a rewarding career.

Job Summary

As a senior-level performer, conducts complex analyses of samples (e.g., water, wastewater, sludge, soil) to provide timely and accurate chemical analysis as required by federal, state and local regulations.

Job Description

Overview

The Senior Chemist leads, oversees, assists, and supports the organic, inorganic, biological, and physical analysis of water, wastewater, soil, sludge, and air samples submitted by various departments using prescribed scientific methods.

Ensures quality assurance and assists with quality control of testing activities, reporting, and compliance with federal, state, and local environment and health regulations.

Essential Functions

Oversees, monitors, and maintains the laboratory's quality control personnel for daily operation of the lab from sample receiving to data review and report generation for lab customers;

coordinates and collaborates with other chemists to do research and development to improve current analysis methods, develop new methods, and update standard operating procedures to increase efficiency within the lab.

Performs chemical, physical and biological analysis, testing, and the principles and practices applied to the water or wastewater laboratory;

gathers samples, completes standardized analysis, compiles flow information, runs time-sensitive tests, updates plant operation supervisors on critical issues, and notifies state and federal agencies on test findings.

Maintains and troubleshoots laboratory instruments and equipment and calibrates on-line instrumentation to ensure accurate test results and QA / QC requirements are met for laboratory certification;

identifies necessary equipment, procures new equipment, monitors storage systems, and handles appropriate disposal.

Prepares reagents for use in testing procedures to ensure consistent quality of test results; sterilizes glassware used in lab analyses;

gathers quotations for lab supplies, updates inventories, and ensures functionality.

Develops, updates and recommends methods for the analysis and treatment of various pollutants in water, wastewater, industrial waste, storm water, and air to provide high-quality results at the lowest possible cost;

collaborates with management to address issues and convey new policies and procedures.

• Trains, educates, and develops new personnel in City laboratory methods to ensure consistency in testing results.
• Audits and evaluates test data produced by City labs and contract labs to ensure that they meet minimum quality assurance and quality control standards;

implements corrective actions based on findings.

Attends and conducts safety meetings and adapts changes to safety policies; remains informed and up to date on changes to federal, state, or local mandates;

provides plant tours and assists with licensing classes.

• Prepares and completes weekly, monthly and annual reports on activities, testing work, and related findings; maintains databases and informational spreadsheets.
• Performs any and all other work as needed or assigned.

Knowledge and Skills

• Knowledge of chemical, physical, and biological analysis, testing, and sampling.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices applied to the water or wastewater laboratory.
• Knowledge of water and wastewater treatment facility and processes.
• Knowledge of basic chemistry and material safety data sheet.
• Ability to gather samples, perform tests, and communicate findings.
• Ability to use computer software and other equipment to accomplish and document findings.
• Ability to read and comprehend various chemical, biological, and physical testing procedures.
• Ability to prepare and present scientific records and reports.
• Ability to lead, monitor quality assurance, and effectively perform quality control.
• Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.
• Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS :

EDUCATION :

Bachelor's degree (or higher) in a Chemistry, Biology, or other natural science field.

EXPERIENCE :

Two (2) years of experience in an environmental laboratory, including analysis of processed water and wastewater.

LICENSE :

A valid driver's license with a good driving record and own transportation.

Salary Range

$58,204.45 - $72,343.93

The salary listed on this job posting is the starting salary range; amount offered will depend upon qualifications.

City of Dallas is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity at all levels of its workforce.

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