Utility District Laboratory Technician (#RC0515)
$28.38-$34.49 Hourly / $4,918.96-$5,979.03 Monthly / $59,027.61-$71,748.43 Yearly

Under general supervision, performs and evaluates standardized water and wastewater treatment tests in the Utility Districts laboratory; assists with water/wastewater plant operations; and does related or other work as required in accordance with Rule 3, Section 3 of the Civil Service Rules.

An incumbent in this class is responsible for performing routine physical and chemical analyses of water, wastewater, sludge and other materials in order to maintain treatment plant and water system operations at the most efficient level; assists staff with daily treatment plant operations, as necessary.

• Collects samples of wastewater, sludge and other materials from sewage treatment plants; collects samples of water from wells and distribution systems within various special districts; prepares samples for testing.
• Performs standardized analyses of water, wastewater, sludge and other materials; prepares reagents and chemical solutions; filters and weighs samples.
• Records and analyzes water/wastewater test data; makes computations; compiles data and prepares reports; maintains time records for determining labor and vehicle costs for individual districts; determines sample compliance based on state/federal regulations.
• May direct others to make treatment process changes to optimize treatment plant or water system operations.
• Maintains and operates water, sewer and storm systems; may adjust and perform minor repairs on electrical and mechanical equipment; operates pumps, sewer cleaning and other equipment; repairs or replaces pipes or connections; chlorinates wells.
• Operates, cleans and maintains laboratory apparatus, utensils and instruments; orders laboratory supplies, chemicals and equipment.
• Answers telephone; receives incoming calls from constituents with problems; monitors radio base station.

Experience:  One year of laboratory experience performing basic analytical procedures in a water or wastewater facility.
Substitution:  24 semester units of coursework in chemistry, biology, engineering, physics, sanitary/public health or related field from an accredited college or university may substitute for one year of laboratory experience.

Certificate:  At time of appointment, must possess a valid Grade 1 Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certificate issued by the State of California State Water Resources Control Board.

Special Requirement: A valid Grade T1 Water Treatment Plant Operator certificate issued by the California State Department of Health Services must be obtained within one year from the date the first exam is offered and a valid Grade 1 Laboratory Analyst certificate issued by the California Water Environmental Association (CWEA) or an approved agency must be obtained within two years of appointment. Failure to successfully pass the exams and obtain the required certifications may result in release from the position.

License:  Possession of a valid California driver’s license.

Basic chemistry and bacteriology; laboratory methods and procedures; sampling and testing procedures; basic mathematics and conversions; operations, maintenance and care of laboratory equipment; machinery, equipment, materials and operating practices of modern sewage disposal plants; laws, regulations, policies, and procedures relevant to water/wastewater operations and treatment; computer software utilized in water/wastewater treatment applications and data analysis; standard practices, tools and materials used in maintenance of sewage disposal plants, sewer systems, water systems, and storm drainage systems; safe working practices and conditions.

Understand and apply regulations, policies, and procedures; perform chemical and bacteriological tests; interpret test results and make recommendations based on test analysis; enter data; make accurate computations; follow oral and written instructions; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; prepare reports and maintain records; operate computers and related software; establish and maintain effective working relationships; inspect mechanical equipment and detect flaws in operation; operate and maintain electrical and mechanical equipment.

Mobility-Operation of a data entry device; sitting, standing, walking, driving, pushing, pulling, bending, stooping, squatting; Lifting-Frequent lifting 30-70 pounds; occasional lifting of 70+ pounds; Vision-Constant close up work requiring good overall vision, eye/hand coordination and depth perception, color perception; Dexterity-Frequent holding, gripping, and reaching; occasional writing and repetitive motion; Hearing/Talking-Frequent hearing/speaking normal speech in person and on the telephone; Emotional/Psychological Factors-Frequent decision making, working alone; occasional public contact; Special Requirements-May require working overtime, weekends, nights and holidays; occasional travel; Environmental Conditions-Exposure to noise, dirt, dust, chemicals, odors, fumes, heat, and poor ventilation; indoor/outdoor temperature conditions.

San Joaquin County complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and, upon request, will consider reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.