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Job Description
Grade 19 - Starting Annual Salary: $62,109.00. Rate of pay depends on qualifications.
Job Description
JOB SUMMARY
The Environmental Laboratory Chemist is responsible for preparing samples and performing chemical, bacteriological, organic and metallic analyses that require intermediate laboratory skills. Performs analyses, including required quality control, within required turnaround time and in accordance with standard operating procedures. Evaluates test results for reasonability and correctness.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS- Performs organic and metallic chemical analyses utilizing gas chromatography, gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy, ion chromatograph and/or the inductively coupled plasma in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures, calibrates, operates and maintains test equipment and instrumentation needed to perform analyses.
- Performs chemical analyses to determine pH, conductivity, turbidity, solids, acidity, alkalinity, volatile acids, demand, ammonia, total Kjeldahl nitrogen, total phosphorus, oil and grease, cyanide, chlorophyll, phenolics, residual chlorine, color, and odor, microbiological analyses to determine total and fecal coliform, and Microtox and/or organic and metals preparatory procedures in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures, calibrates, operates and maintains test equipment needed to perform analyses.
- Records analytical data in LIMS and reviews quality control charts to verify that it is within limits.
- Evaluates test data and refers suspect results to Senior Environmental Laboratory Chemist and/or Laboratory Quality Assurance Coordinator.
- Cleans and prepares laboratory equipment and glassware using solvents and/or cleaners that are appropriate to the item's analytical function.
- Maintains analytical workstation, to include performing physical inventory of chemicals and supplies needed.
- Comprehends and follows laboratory Quality Assurance Plan (QAP).
- Assists in researching, writing, and revising laboratory analytical Standard Operating Procedures.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
DECISION MAKING- Reports to Manager, receives functional guidance from team leader and works under direct to general supervision.
- Work is performed in accordance with laboratory standard operating procedures and policies.
- The incumbent organizes and prioritizes daily workload based on required turnaround time with periodic checks by team leader.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS- Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or related discipline from an institution accredited by a recognized accrediting agency.
- Two years' experience performing chemical and biological laboratory analysis and testing.
- Beginner level skills in word processing, spreadsheet and presentation software.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS- Texas Water Utility Association Level C Laboratory Analyst Certification.
- Certification as a Registered Environmental Laboratory Technologist.
JOB DIMENSIONS- Occasional contact with internal and external customers, vendors, outside agencies and regulatory agencies.
- Communicates effectively verbally and in writing.
- Establishes and maintains effective working relationships and public relations.
- Infrequent travel may be required.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS
Physical requirements include lifting and carrying up to 25 pounds occasionally. Requires visual acuity and hand-eye coordination. Working conditions are in a laboratory environment with frequent to constant standing. Frequent exposure to chemicals, waste materials and hazardous materials. Occasional exposure to noxious fumes, vapors, and odors.
May be required to work hours other than regular schedule including weekends and holidays.
San Antonio Water System values the contributions of all its employees, providing them the best in compensation and benefits. The benefits package is designed to attract and retain a workforce of qualified employees who share a responsibility in providing quality water to 1 million consumers.
From an affordable medical and dental plan to life-sustaining retirement and insurance plans, we offer benefits that reward employees for their commitment to a challenging career at SAWS. Employee benefits include the following:- Competitive, market-based salaries
- Performance-based incentives
- Medical benefits
- Dental benefits
- Life insurance
- Prescription drug program
- Vision care plan
- Two retirement plans
- Deferred compensation plans (457 plan)
- Disability income
- Paid leave (vacation, sick, personal)
- Education assistance program
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible, tax-deferred health and dependent care spending accounts
- Wellness programs
- On-Site Fitness Facilities
- Community service opportunities
Closing Date/Time: 3/23/2025 11:59 PM Central -
ABOUT THE COMPANY
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San Antonio Water System
Show moreThe San Antonio Water System (SAWS) is a public utility owned by the City of San Antonio. SAWS serves 2 million people in Bexar County as well as parts of Medina and Atascosa counties. The population includes more than 511,300 water customers and 457,600 wastewater customers. SAWS actively seeks out public participation in its operations and planning, while SAWS volunteers strive to help their neighbors in need.
As an industry leader in conservation and water and wastewater management, SAWS provides sustainable, affordable water services. To deliver responsible water services, our investment in our employees – one of our greatest assets – ranks as a top priority.
San Antonio Water System's Board of Trustees has adopted mission, vision and values statements that serve as a foundation to move the utility forward through 2050 and reinforce San Antonio's much-deserved reputation as Waterful.
Our Mission: Sustainable, Affordable Water Services / Our Vision: To be leaders in delivering responsible water services for life. / Our Values: Excellence, Integrity, Respect and Safety.
SAWS is a values-based organization that believes in diversity in all aspects of our business. At SAWS, we attract and retain the finest individuals whose diverse talents drive innovation. We recognize that differences in race, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, nationality, physical ability or any characteristic protected by law, enrich and empower our work environment. We respectfully infuse diversity in our daily work lives with the knowledge that people from a variety of backgrounds and life experiences make connections that make SAWS a success.
SAWS is committed to providing our employees with a healthy, safe, and rewarding work environment where all employees have an equal opportunity for professional and personal growth. SAWS employees go beyond what is expected – developing remarkable, award-winning programs in conservation, water resources, watershed protection and wastewater treatment.
Why Choose a Career at SAWS?
For Your Work-Life Balance: SAWS is proud to invest in its employees by offering a variety of paid time off to help meet the work-life balance goals of you and your family.
For Your Professional Growth: Professional growth is key to both our employees’ success as well as SAWS’. That’s why SAWS offers a number of professional development opportunities that achieve both personal and company goals.
For Your Future: Achieving your personal financial goals is an important part of your life. SAWS makes it easy for employees to save for retirement by providing several retirement plan options.
For Your Health: SAWS offers a range of health, dental and vision benefits, and Wellness Programs to help meet each employee’s needs.
For your Protection: SAWS offers life insurance and disability coverage to meet the need for protection against life’s unexpected events.
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