Laboratory Technician - Wastewater Treatment Plant

Performs lab analyses of wastewater. Responsible for the maintenance and operation of the Water Environment Protection Facility in accordance with the laws and regulations of the State of Ohio and approved operating procedures.

The job description is intended merely to illustrate the duties that may be assigned to persons assigned this title. It should not be interpreted to describe all the duties that may be required of persons holding a position assigned this title or to limit the nature and extent of assignments a person may be given.

The WEPF Lab Technician shall be committed to the mission, vision and values of the City and demonstrate such through ethical conduct, community stewardship, individual initiative and responsive service. The WEPF Lab Technician shall demonstrate leadership, management and technical skills through effective communication and collaboration, proper use of team resources, progressive decision-making, personal accountability and responsibility.

• Primary Job Duties:(Essential functions are identified by an ‘ * ‘)

  • All duties of a WEPF Operator. *
  • Plans, organizes and performs all required and assigned lab analyses. Coordinates additional analyses with other certified laboratories as required. *
  • Maintains all required records of laboratory operations.*
  • Completes all required local, state and/or federal reports. *
  • Tracks and maintains inventories of chemicals, supplies and lab equipment. Coordinates with the Superintendent to purchase materials, supplies and equipment*
  • Assists the Superintendent with planning and completing WEPF capital and maintenance projects, service contracts, etc. as assigned.*
  • Compiles data and reports for land application of bio-solids. Coordinates with property owners, the Lorain County General Health District, state and federal environmental protection agencies as required and assigned.*
  • Assists with land application program. *
  • Assists in training new employees.*
  • Communicates with the public; strives to remedy problems/complaints; conducts plant tours*.
  • Complies with all environmental health and safety procedures, work rules, and regulations and directives established to prevent injury andor to reduce hazards to themselves, fellow employees, municipal property, and the public. Reports unsafe conditions.*
  • Develops, prepares, conducts and participates in and completes all required safety and training programs.*
  • Ensures operations are conducted in accordance with local, state and federal law, standard operating procedures, accepted industry practice and general or special instructions from the Superintendent or the Public Works Director.*
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.*

High school diploma or equivalent. College level coursework in Chemistry, Biology and/or equivalent laboratory experience preferred. Class II Wastewater Operator License. Class II Wastewater Analyst Certification.

Must have mathematical ability, communication skills, planning, organizing and recordkeeping skills, knowledge of wastewater treatment processes and operations. Must be able to supervise co-workers and function effectively as a team. Must have a telephone where one can be reached for call-outs and emergencies.

• Ability to accurately read gauges and meters.
• Ability to prepare and maintain accurate paperwork such as records, logs, orders, surveys and routine reports as directed.
• Ability to perform accurate mathematical calculations related to this position.
• Ability to perform standardized wastewater process control, monitoring, compliance sampling and testing including knowledge of activated sludge treatment.
• Knowledge of methods and precautions in storing and handling industrial chemicals.
• Must have basic computer skills: MS Word, MS Excel. SCADA system experience is preferred.
• Must be able to develop short term and long term work plans.