LABORATORY TECHNICIAN Series Specification DEFINITION: This series specification describes three classes which, under supervision, perform standardized analytical laboratory tests on water and wastewater samples, maintain a chemical laboratory; and perform other specifically related work as required. CLASS TITLES: Laboratory Technician Trainee Laboratory Technician I Laboratory Technician II CLASS CHARACTERISTICS: Laboratory Technician Trainee: Under close supervision, learn to perform a small number of analytical laboratory tests. As training on each test is completed, the incumbent performs the work without immediate supervision; however, technical assistance is readily available in the laboratory. Upon achieving a working level in the class, incumbents are assigned a limited number of routine and highly repetitive analytical tests. Laboratory Technician I: Perform more varied work involving more difficult analysis. Laboratory Technician II: Positions in this class are typically assigned to either a water or wastewater plant laboratory and perform specialized testing in the assigned lab. No one position would normally perform all of the duties listed below. LICENSE REQUIRED: Possession of a valid and appropriate California Driver's License. Wastewater: Laboratory Technician I in wastewater must possess a Grade I or higher Laboratory Analyst certification issued by the California Water Environment Control Association and/or American Water Works Association. Laboratory Technician II must possess a Grade II or higher Laboratory Analyst certification issued by the California Water Environment Control Association and/or the American Waterworks Association.
Water: Laboratory Technician I: Possess Grade I or higher Laboratory Analyst Certificate issued by AWWA Laboratory Technician II: Possess Grade II or higher Laboratory Analyst Certificate issued by AWWA ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS The following duties are typical of this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the duties and/or may be required to perform specific additional or different duties from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices. Learn and perform limited routine laboratory work related to water or wastewater treatment; clean and sterilize glassware and equipment; learn to use blender, hot air oven, muffle furnace, pipette, analytical balance, dissolved oxygen probe, vacuum and related equipment; assist in compiling and maintaining laboratory records; assist other laboratory staff in performing tests and analyses; perform a variety of routine mathematical calculations; learn to follow and replicate precise laboratory testing procedures; maintain simple records; operate a City vehicle observing legal and defensive driving practices; handle, use and store hazardous chemicals safely; use a variety of computer programs; perform titrations with color changes or amperometric; set out and pick up wastewater samples, grabs and 24-Hour composites, on and off plant site; and perform related work as required. Laboratory Technician I: Perform more difficult and varied chemical analyses; maintain the laboratory and all equipment in a clean, orderly and safe condition; perform a variety of routine chemical and bacteriological tests and analyses on wastewater, water, sludge and industrial waste samples; operate laboratory equipment such as spectrophotometers, ph specification and conductivity meters, centrifuges and analytical balances, autoclaves and incubators. Laboratory Technician II: Perform routine and specialized laboratory analyses; perform specialized chemical and bacteriological tests and analyses; operate required lab equipment, including spectrophotometric equipment for measurement analyses; train and direct the work of other laboratory personnel;. PERIPHERAL FUNCTIONS: Conduct visitors on guided tours of the plant. 2
ALLOCATION FACTORS: Extent of knowledge of laboratory and testing procedures, ability to do more complicated procedures and level of independence of decision-making. PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND MENTAL PSYCHOLOGICAL DEMANDS: The conditions herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Physical: Strength: Light Work - Exert force to 20 lbs. occasionally or 10 lbs. frequently, and negligible force constantly to lift, carry, push, pull, or move objects. May involve significant standing, walking, pushing, and/or pulling. Frequently stand or sit, handle, fingering, typing. Occasionally walk, bend, stoop. Occasionally extend neck upward, downward and side to side, reach above, at or below shoulder level. Daily crouch or climb stairs. Vision: Visual acuity which could be corrected sufficiently to perform the essential functions of the position; average depth perception and the ability to see colors including yellow, pink, red, purple, blue and green. Hearing: Hearing ability to understand/comprehend oral instruction is needed. Mental/Psychological: Work cooperatively and interact appropriately with those contacted in the course of work, including the general public; read/comprehend simple material; utilize simple math and writing skills; understand, remember and carry out detailed but not complex job instructions; communicate effectively orally; work within deadlines; train other workers. ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS: Constantly work indoors, occasionally outdoors. Frequently exposed to chemicals. Frequently use a computer. Occasionally work around machinery. Occasionally exposed to dust, fumes, smoke, gases, odors, excessive noises, radiation or electrical energy, solvents, grease or oil, flames/smoke. Rarely drives motorized equipment/ vehicles. Frequently work alone, occasionally with others. Incumbents are required to collect field samples and may risk exposure to toxic chemicals, bacteria or viruses. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Employees in this classification may be required to utilize respirators in the course of their job duties or under emergency circumstances, and thus must be in compliance with General Industry Safety Order 5144. Employees shall not wear beards, mustaches, sideburns, facial hair or other conditions in such a manner that may prevent or interfere 3
with establishing and maintaining a proper seal of the respirator face mask. This requirement is implemented in order to insure the safety and health of the employee. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Knowledge of: Fundamentals of algebra; Simple recordkeeping Appropriate safety precautions and procedures; Fundamentals of laboratory chemistry and mathematics. LABORATORY TECHNICIAN I: General analyses related to water or wastewater treatment; Laboratory terminology, equipment, safety, quality assurance, calculations and sampling techniques. LABORATORY TECHNICIAN II: Ability to: Water or wastewater treatment process; Advanced analyses related to water or wastewater treatment; Advanced microbiological testing, including fecal coliform and membrane filter. Perform a variety of routine mathematical calculations; Learn to follow and replicate precise laboratory testing procedures; Maintain simple records; Operate a vehicle observing legal and defensive driving practices; Understand and carry out oral and written instructions; Establish and maintain effective relationships with those contacted in the course of work. LABORATORY TECHNICIAN I: Perform a variety of routine chemical and bacteriological tests and analyses on wastewater, water, sludge and industrial waste samples; Operate laboratory equipment such as spectrophotometers, ph specification and conductivity meters, centrifuges and analytical balances, autoclaves and 4
incubators; Maintain the laboratory, laboratory equipment and chemicals to insure proper cleanliness and working conditions. LABORATORY TECHNICIAN II: Perform specialized chemical and bacteriological tests and analyses; Train and direct the work of other laboratory personnel. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Any combination of training, education and experience which demonstrates an ability to perform the duties of the position. The typical qualifying entrance background is: Laboratory Technician Trainee: High school graduation and course work in high school or junior college chemistry. Laboratory Technician I: One year of experience in a water or wastewater treatment laboratory. Laboratory Technician II: One to four years experience in a water or wastewater plant, depending upon education. MANDATORY ADVANCEMENT: With satisfactory job performance, promotion shall be effective the first full pay period following presentation of proof of possession of the appropriate certification. No person shall occupy the position of Laboratory Technician Trainee for more than 30 months. POTENTIAL CAREER PATH: Experience gained by incumbents in these classes can provide the knowledge, skills and abilities to qualify for Water or Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator, Water Resources Protection Technician or Chemist. 7/06 5