Wastewater Lab Officer

Job Description

Under the supervision of the Sanitation Engineer, the Waste Water Lab officer performs chemical, physical, and biological analysis of wastewater, storm water and industrial water in support of the wastewater treatment plant.

The expert will mainly assist with special projects related to waste water treatment systems implemented by the WaSH team, and performs a variety of technical tasks relative to assigned area of responsibility.

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES

• Perform routine chemical, biological and physical analysis of water, wastewater to ensure compliance with sanitation and water thematic groups regulations.
• Participate in the collection of water/ waste water samples from Waste Water Treatment Systems to monitor and control the various stages of treatment.
• Prepare solutions, reagents, equipment, apparatus and accessories and other supplies needed at the lab.
• Conduct monthly inventory of chemicals, reagents, solutions, and other supplies and equipment essential to laboratory operation.
• Prepare and maintain technical reports on results of analyses conducted.
• Clean, sterilize, calibrate and maintain equipment and apparatus used in all tests and analysis.
• Prepare microbiological media.
• Maintain accurate files; enter test results into the computer and generate necessary reports.
• Perform quality control and quality assurance tests and maintain quality control procedures in the laboratory.
• Ensure adherence to safe work practices and procedures as well as laws, rules and regulations.
• Clean laboratory testing equipment.
• Provide lab training to plant personnel on proper lab methods, procedures, and techniques.
• Participate in special projects as assigned.
• Perform related duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

The following generally describes the knowledge and ability required to enter the job and/or be learned within a short period of time in order to successfully perform the assigned duties.

Knowledge of:

• Laboratory techniques, equipment, terminology, and procedures.
• Principles and practices of qualitative and quantitative chemistry, mathematics, biology,
• microbiology and bacteriology.
• Principles of chemical and physical analysis.
• Modern laboratory procedures, methods and computer equipment.
• Sampling procedures and field equipment.
• Mathematics.
• Occupational hazards and standard safety practices.
• Pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes and regulations.

Ability to:

• Conduct chemical, biological and bacteriological examinations and analyses.
• Conduct mathematical calculations.
• Operate analytical laboratory instruments.
• Use and maintain laboratory equipment.
• Use computers and a variety of computer software programs.
• Prepare clear, concise and technical reports.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Education and Experience Guidelines

Qualifications include an associate's degree in chemistry and biology and experience conducting tests in a laboratory setting. Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.

A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Education/Training:

Equivalent to completion of the twelfth grade supplemented by college level course

work in biology, microbiology, chemistry or a related field. A Bachelor’s degree from

an accredited college or university with major course work in biology, chemistry,

microbiology, or a related field is highly desirable.

Experience:

One year of experience conducting a variety of tests in a physical, chemical, or

biological laboratory.

SKILLS

• Ability to work effectively under stress in emergency and other situations.
• Ability to use water quality field testing kits.
• Ability to analyze and interpret the results of a variety of laboratory tests of water.
• Ability to work effectively under stress in emergency and other situations.
• Strong analytical skills, solid reporting methods.
• Solid commend of fluent English spoken and written is a must.
• Committed to equality and social inclusion.
• Good Microsoft Office skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook).
• Excellent analytical and reporting skills.
• High confidentiality, respect, and non-discrimination attitude.
• Strong communication skills.
• Team player, flexible, able to handle pressure well and work in cross-cultural setting.
• High level of planning and organizing (ability to meet deadlines).
• Strong interpersonal skills and a proven ability to work effectively with others.
• Willingness to learn new skills and/or approaches.
• Ability to show initiative and take responsibility.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT

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 job functions.

Environment: Treatment plant lab environment; work with water; exposure to hazardous

chemicals, infectious waste, and inclement weather conditions.

Physical: Sufficient physical ability necessary for standing, walking, bending and stooping

for prolonged periods of time; heavy to moderate lifting; operating motorized equipment.

Vision: See in the normal visual range with or without correction; vision sufficient to read

computer screens and printed documents.

Hearing: Hear in the normal audio range with or without correction

SAWA Group has a zero tolerance to Sexual Exploitation and Abuse of beneficiaries. All staff are required to adhere to the PSEA Policy (during work hours and outside work hours).