Senior Laboratory Scientist - Organic Chemistry

The Position

Under direction, performs various routine and complex laboratory tests and analyses in environmental matrices including, but not limited to potable water, non-potable water, biosolids, sludges, solids, air, and other environmental samples according to established laboratory procedures and regulatory requirements; develops and validates/verifies new test methods; analyzes, and reviews internal data packages for accuracy and completeness; leads and conducts special research projects and presents to internal and external stakeholders; verifies data in the laboratory information management system (LIMS); performs advanced maintenance and troubleshooting of laboratory methods and instrumentation; performs technical duties in the absence of the Laboratory Supervisor.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This classification is the second of two levels in the Laboratory Scientist series. Positions at this level exercise judgment and discretion in matters related to work procedures and methods requiring technical knowledge and expertise in scientific principles, methodologies, instrumentation, and equipment. Employees receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are responsible for developing and validating new test methods and techniques. Assignments are given with general guidelines and positions are responsible for establishing objectives, timelines, and methods to deliver work products or services. Work is typically reviewed upon completion for soundness, appropriateness, and conformity to policy and requirements. Responsibilities may include providing guidance on research studies and/or projects and providing coaching and mentoring to lower-level staff.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Performs a variety of complex chemical, biochemical, physical, and microbiological tests and analyses on environmental sample matrices such as, but not limited to, water, potable and non-potable water, biosolids, sludges, solids, air, and other environmental samples.

Reviews, evaluates, and recommends changes to standard operating procedures and methods to improve laboratory operations and ensure compliance with standards and regulatory and reporting requirements.

Develops, validates, and provides training on new test methods, laboratory techniques, and instrumentation; provides technical support and guidance on specialized scientific methodologies, techniques, and contaminants of emerging concern.

Independently sets up, calibrates, and operates a variety of advanced laboratory instrumentation and equipment; provides training and guidance to lower-level laboratory staff on use of advanced instrumentation and equipment.

Applies subject matter expertise and understanding of advanced laboratory instrumentation and equipment to recognize anomalies in results and recommend strategies to address the issue; provides feedback and recommendations to mitigate future anomalies and improve laboratory methodologies.

Assists management in the selection and evaluation of new technologies and instrumentation by researching emerging products, contaminants, and enhancements and their applicability to the District’s needs and making recommendations to management.

Directs research projects independently with regular review by management; oversees, schedules, and reviews the activities of staff on assigned project; implements procedures and methods to improve and continuously monitor the efficiency and effectiveness of assigned research projects; identifies opportunities for improvement and recommends to management; coordinates project activities with other groups internal and external to the District in accomplishing project goals and objectives.

Participates in and contributes to the Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (ELAP), as well as the Laboratory’s Quality Assurance/Quality Control Program to ensure the methods, techniques, and equipment used to analyze samples produce accurate, reliable results; develops, reviews, and revises standard operating procedures (SOPS) and protocols as assigned.

Validates analytical data and results entered in LIMS by Laboratory Scientists and other District staff.

Prepares and compiles and/or reviews analytical data packages and/or daily process control data sheets as assigned.

Assists in overseeing the monitoring, control, inventory, and ordering of laboratory and sampling supplies and equipment; purchases equipment and supplies as directed.

Maintains laboratory instrumentation and equipment; performs required safety and quality control checks of instruments and equipment; coordinates repairs with vendors; maintains the laboratory in a safe and clean condition.

Develops and conducts training programs and presentations for District staff.

Prepares and presents research, data, and technical projects for internal and external stakeholders.

Attends and participates in meetings, conferences, workshops, and training sessions; stays abreast of new trends and innovations in the field of laboratory analysis; makes recommendations for changes and improvements.

Comply with safety work-related practices and attend relevant safety training. Assists management with maintaining the Laboratory and District’s Safety Policies and Procedures; may serve as the Laboratory Safety Officer;

Perform other related duties as assigned.

Disaster Service Worker:

In accordance with Government Code Section 3100, Irvine Ranch Water District employees, in the event of a disaster, are considered disaster service workers and may be asked to respond accordingly.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Education

Equivalent to a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in chemistry, biochemistry, biological sciences, microbiology, molecular biology or a related field.

Experience

Five (5) years of professional-level laboratory experience, including conducting routine and/or complex analyses of water, potable and non-potable water, biosolids, sludges, solids, air, and/or other environmental samples

Knowledge of:

Ability to: