Water Quality Specialist

JOB

JOB SUMMARY This position requires considerable knowledge of sampling techniques for potable and source water, fundamental water quality analyses, computer data entry and transfer, and sampling equipment. This position is subject to all the rules of the Authority’s Compliance Laboratory Water Quality QC Manual, as well as the State of Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) rules and protocols for collecting representative samples, and to the State of Florida Department of Health regulations and National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Conference rules for maintaining laboratory certification. Under limited supervision, this is a skilled technical position responsible for collecting samples and performing analytical tests both in the field and in a laboratory environment. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Understanding the Lab’s scheduling system and executing sampling events on a timely basis. Logs in samples. Collection of water samples in such a manner as to obtain the most representative samples. Perform field tests skillfully and accurately and record results. Calibration of field water quality instruments at various sampling locations. Checks/updates inventory for the OPS laboratory. Performs basic microbiological testing for total coliform/E. coli bacteria. Perform successful semi-annual Proficiency Testing to maintain certification. Conducts maintenance on field sampling and analytical equipment. Manage contract laboratory reports and transcribe contract laboratory data on environmental water quality reporting forms. Interactions with other PRMRWSA departments as well as member government representatives whenever necessary to facilitate the sample collection. Notify and assist staff when necessary to adhere to water quality and environmental compliance reporting requirements and submissions. Compile and submit regulatory reports as assigned. Generate a monthly compliance summary report calendar for all report submissions received, generated, and sent to regulatory agencies. Comply with all established safety and administrative policies and procedures. Effectively communicates in oral and written form. Develops knowledge and skills of the terminology, principles, and techniques of sample collection systems and the associated laboratory equipment. Develops knowledge of computer software and skills for applications and data entry. Ability to work effectively with all levels of management and other colleagues and demonstrate initiative, mature judgment, and ability to anticipate the needs of the organization. Plans, organizes, and coordinates work assignments with laboratory personnel. Observes Safety Policies and Procedures in accordance with the Lab's Safety Program. Operates specialized equipment such as UTV, boat, and boat trailer as required. Participates in the department's cross-training initiatives to acquire knowledge and skill sets to support the department and the Authority. Performs other related job duties as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS Education and Experience: Associate’s degree with a major in natural or physical science, and two (2) years of experience in an analytical laboratory or water-quality related field; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Special Qualification: A valid State of Florida driver’s license to operate a motor vehicle. The requirement exists at the time of hire and as a condition of continued employment. State of Florida Boater Safety Education Certificate within 3 months of hireFlorida Society of Environmental Analysts Ethics & Data Integrity Workshop within 6 months of hire Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Experience with drinking water methodology. Experience in method development.Experience in developing, implementing and maintaining a time-efficient work schedule for the instrumental analysis of samples and reporting of results. Knowledge of computer programs such as Microsoft Word and Excel. Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.Ability to work effectively with all levels of management and other staff and demonstrate initiative, mature judgment, customer service orientation, and ability to anticipate the organization’s needs. Ability to properly and safely operate a motor vehicle, UTV, and a boat. Minimum Standards required to perform essential job functions PHYSICAL DEMANDSThe work is light work which requires exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force to move objects. Tasks involve the regular, and at times sustained, performance of moderately physically demanding work, typically involving some combination of climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling, and that may involve the lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling of objects and materials. In addition, you must have the ability to sit and stand for extended periods and bend, twist, squat, kneel, push, pull, and exhibit a full range of movement. SENSORY ABILITIES Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate sounds. Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate colors or shades of colors. Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate depths. Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate odors. Some tasks require visual perception and discrimination. In addition, you must have the ability to use visual, auditory, and olfactory cues to detect faulty operating characteristics in equipment and/or process and make corrective repairs and adjustments. WORK ENVIRONMENT Tasks may risk exposure to strong and/or toxic chemicals, noise extremes, humidity, dust, machinery, wetness, and odors, and work outdoors in a wide range of southwest Florida weather conditions, and in typical southwest Florida terrain. All job requirements in the job description provided indicate the minimum level of knowledge, skills, and/or abilities deemed necessary to perform the job competently. Job descriptions are an overview of the duties, responsibilities, and requirements of the position. Employees may be required to perform other job-related duties as required to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.