Laboratory Assistant

Position Summary:

Obtains environmental samples from the collection/distribution system, treatment plants, and industrial clients and assists with laboratory testing.

Criteria: Education & Experience:

High school diploma (GED) with high school and/or college level classes in biology or chemistry. Bachelor’s degree in biology or chemistry preferred.

Skills & Abilities:

Demonstrated ability to perform chemical and analytical tests on water and wastewater samples. Excellent communication skills. Ability to understand and follow quality control processes pertaining to a laboratory.

Certifications/Licenses:

None.

Physical Demands:

The ability to use a computer keyboard effectively. The ability to orally communicate by phone and person to person. The ability to see and read printed material. The ability to lift, carry, and use heavy tools and materials. The ability to climb and perform work from a ladder. The ability to safely operate a standard equipped company motor vehicle. The ability to enter/exit 22” diameter accessways and work in confined spaces. The ability to walk many miles per day over rough terrain.

Work Environment:

Indoor and outdoor conditions. Exposure to chemicals, wastewater, and related gases. Works holidays and weekends.

Driving:

Must have and maintain a valid TN Class “D” license.

Telephone:

Must maintain an operating telephone and furnish the number to his/her supervisor.

Essential Functions:

- Collects environmental samples from water and/or wastewater plants, industrial facilities, residential homes, and other locations.

- Performs basic laboratory analysis of environmental samples from water and/or wastewater plants, industrial facilities, residential homes, and other locations.

- Maintains all field-sampling equipment.

- Calibrates laboratory instruments.

- Maintains a clean laboratory with clean equipment and work area.

- Maintains a clean vehicle with clean equipment.

- Maintains accurate sampling records.

- Follows quality assurance EPA guidelines.

- Follows written laboratory SOPs.

- Maintains state regulated bacteriological certification.

- Maintains accurate records of assigned laboratory testing.

- Observes all safety precautions and procedures.

- Performs additional duties as requested