CITY OF REDLANDS LABORATORY TECHNICIAN I LABORATORY TECHNICIAN II LABORATORY TECHNICIAN III LABORATORY TECHNICIAN IV DEFINITION

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1 CITY OF REDLANDS LABORATORY TECHNICIAN I LABORATORY TECHNICIAN II LABORATORY TECHNICIAN III LABORATORY TECHNICIAN IV DEFINITION Under immediate supervision (Laboratory Technician I) or general supervision (Laboratory Technician II, III, IV) to assist in the operation and performance of water, chemical, and bacteriological analyses and examinations according to standard laboratory methods and procedures. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS Laboratory Technician I--This is the entry level in the class series. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the II level, but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgement in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise. Since this class is often used as a training class, employees may have only limited or no directly related work experience. Laboratory Technician II-- Positions at this level are distinguished from the I level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, and will be under direction and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. Positions in this class series are flexibly staffed and positions at the II level are normally filled by advancement from the I level requiring two years of experience, successful performance, and a valid Grade II Laboratory Analyst Certificate as issued by the California Water Environment Association or a valid Grade II Water Quality Laboratory Analyst Certificate as issued by the California- Nevada Section American Water Works Association. When filled from the outside, the employee is required to have prior related experience which allows the employee to meet the qualification standards for the II level. Laboratory Technician III - Positions at this level are distinguished from the II level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, under direction, to help with the operation of the Wastewater Laboratory. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise, and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. Positions in this class series are Laboratory Technician III (continued)

2 flexibly staffed and positions at the III level are normally filled by advancement from the II level requiring 3 years experience, successful performance, and a valid Grade III Laboratory Analyst Certificate as issued by the California Water Environment Association or a valid Grade III Water Quality Laboratory Analyst Certificate as issued by the California-Nevada Section American Water Works Association. When filled from the outside, the employee is required to have prior related experience which allows the employee to meet the qualification standards for the III level. Laboratory Technician IV - This is the full journey level in the class series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the III level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently and exercising judgement and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise, and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. Positions in this class series are flexibly staffed and positions at the IV level are normally filled by advancement from the III level requiring 5 years of experience, successful performance, and a valid Grade IV Laboratory Analyst Certificate as issued by the California Water Environment Association or a valid Grade IV Water Quality Laboratory Analyst Certificate as issued by the California-Nevada Section American Water Works Association. When filled from the outside, the employee is required to have prior related experience which allows the employee to meet the qualification standards for the IV level. SUPERVISION EXERCISED Laboratory Technician I Exercises no supervision. Laboratory Technician II, III, IV May exercise technical and functional supervision over lower level staff. EXAMPLES OF IMPORTANT AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES Perform a variety of chemical, bacteriological and biological analyses on samples taken from water and wastewater treatment plant processes. Prepare and maintain all the necessary supporting paperwork for analyses performed, including all necessary mathematical and statistical calculations used to determine validity of the analyses. EXAMPLES OF IMPORTANT AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES (continued)

3 Prepare, standardize, and maintain reasonable stocks of solutions and reagents used in laboratory analyses. Clean, sterilize, and maintain reasonable stocks of laboratory glassware, equipment, and utensils. Assist in the overall operations activities of the laboratory. Collect samples for analysis and maintain samples observing chain of custody and preservation requirements. Conduct additional special analyses and examinations to assist in assessing plant operation and studies. Participate in quality control of laboratory procedures and equipment. Perform plant instrumentation checks. OTHER JOB RELATED DUTIES Perform related duties and responsibilities as assigned. JOB RELATED AND ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS Knowledge of: Laboratory Technician I, II, III Principles and practices of chemistry, bacteriology, biology, and the physical sciences. Standard laboratory procedures, practices, and techniques. Safety procedures and precautions in a laboratory setting. Mathematics used in the analysis of test results. Principles and procedures used in wastewater treatment, wastewater collection, water treatment, and water distribution systems. Methods and procedures for collection and preservation of water, wastewater, and Knowledge of: (continued)

4 solids residual samples. Use and application of microcomputers and software. Principles and procedures of record keeping and reporting. Safe driving principles and practices. Skill to: Use standard laboratory testing and analysis equipment. Operate modern office equipment including computer equipment. Operate a motor vehicle safely. Ability to: Assemble data and prepare routine reports. Perform chemical, bacteriological, and biological laboratory tests and procedures. Recognize and correct problems in laboratory test procedures and equipment. Associate analysis results with water and wastewater treatment processes and recognize possible problems in the processes from the test results. Maintain accurate records. Utilize and adapt standard microcomputer software applications to laboratory requirements. Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Establish, maintain, and foster positive and harmonious working relationships with those contacted in the course of work. Laboratory Technician IV In addition to the qualifications for Laboratory Technician I, II, III: Knowledge of: Operational characteristics, services, and activities of a laboratory testing and water quality control program.

5 Modern and complex principles and practices of chemical/biological wastewater testing methods. Laboratory techniques, equipment, terminology, and procedures. Advanced principles of mathematics, biology, microbiology, and analytical and quantitative chemistry. Principles of budget preparation and control. Pertinent Federal, State, and local laws, codes, and regulations. Occupational hazards and standard safety practices used in a laboratory Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment. Ability to: Prescribe the required property changes in chemical and bacteriological applications to maintain treated wastewater or water in accordance with health standards and discharge requirements. Analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions, and implement recommendations in support of goals. Interpret and apply the policies, procedures, laws, and regulations pertaining to assigned programs and functions. Assist in maintaining accurate and complete records. Assist in preparing budgets. Respond to requests and inquiries from the general public. Exercise good judgment, flexibility, creativity, and sensitivity in response to changing situations and needs. Experience and Training Guidelines: Any combination equivalent to experience and training that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities would be qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge, skills, and abilities would be:

6 Experience: Laboratory Technician I Some laboratory chemical and bacteriological or biological testing experience is desirable. Laboratory Technician II Two years of laboratory chemical, bacteriological, or biological testing experience. Laboratory Technician III - Three years of laboratory chemical, bacteriological, or biological testing experience. Laboratory Technician IV - Five years of laboratory chemical, bacteriological, or biological testing experience. Training: Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, microbiology, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. License or Certificate: Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid driver's license. Laboratory Technician I Possession of, or ability to obtain a valid Grade I Laboratory Analyst Certificate as issued by the California Water Environment Association or a valid Grade I Water Quality Laboratory Analyst Certificate as issued by the California-Nevada Section American Water Works Association within one year. Laboratory Technician II Possession of a valid Grade II Laboratory Analyst Certificate as issued by the California Water Environment Association or a valid Grade II Water Quality Laboratory Analyst Certificate as issued by the California- Nevada Section American Water Works Association. Laboratory Technician III - Possession of a valid Grade III Laboratory Analyst Certificate as issued by the California Water Environment Association or a valid Grade III Water Quality Laboratory Analyst Certificate as issued by the California- Nevada Section American Water Works Association. Laboratory Technician IV - Possession of a valid Grade IV Laboratory Analyst Certificate as issued by the California Water Environment Association or a valid Grade IV Water Quality Laboratory Analyst Certificate as issued by the California- Nevada Section American Water Works Association. Special Requirements:

7 Essential duties require the following physical skills and work environment: Ability to work in a standard laboratory environment; ability to sit, stand, walk, stoop, reach, bend, and lift 40 lbs.; exposure to heat, noise, outdoors, chemicals, toxic substances, foul odors, wastewater, sludge, effluents, bacteria, and viruses; ability to travel to different sites and locations. Effective Date: September, 1999 Revised: July, 2003