Sr. Lab Scientist

Senior Laboratory Scientist Water/Wastewater work involves: performing a variety of standardized chemical tests, physical tests and the interpretation of complex microbiological analyses to determine required treatment of potable, industrial, wastewater, and sludge samples. Operates, calibrates, and maintains laboratory equipment. Maintains proper quality control/quality assurance. Works safely and follows City guidelines for safety. Enters data into the LIMS system, recommends improvements in work procedures, methods, and reporting forms. Prepares bacteriological media, performs quality control procedures on media prepared in house and purchased commercially. Adheres to all federal, state and local mandates regarding sample collection, analyses and reporting of data. Prepares and maintains test data. Prepares and certifies standards and other reagents.
 
Participates in and successfully passes proficiency testing. May be instrumental participant in a certified microbiological laboratory. Is responsible for sample collection, sample analysis and reporting of compliance data to the EPA/DHH/DEQ. Analyzes waters for presence of pathogens and other bacteria. Coordinates with operation's personnel to optimize plant performance.
 
In addition, performs diagnostic and analytical analyses of a specific nature to troubleshoot situations with analytical procedures. Monitors and directs new and lower level employees work. Generates applied Standard Operations Procedures for chemical, physical and microbiological analyses. Establishes and implements procedures to assure the accuracy and completeness of data generated in the laboratory. Coordinates laboratory activity with field crews to assure proper handling of customer requests and sampling. Receives and responds to citizen/customer complaints concerning water and wastewater treatment problems. Is responsible for the proficiency testing procedures. Subject to be on call 24/7. Performs other duties as assigned or required.
 
Maintains job safety standards (personal protection equipment, best laboratory practices, etc.); complies with City of Shreveport vehicle safety rules. Regularly attends required safety, job related, and certification training as required.
 
1). A bachelor's degree in chemistry, microbiology, biology or a closely related field, plus one (1) year experience in wastewater or water treatment laboratory or related experience.
 
2). Facility with form perception to recognize physical and chemical differences in materials and eye-hand coordination.
 
3). Possess data handling skills, including facility with Microsoft Office or similar programs, generating emails, as well as laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
 
4). Ability to prepare written reports and perform basic mathematical calculations.
 
5). Valid State Vehicle Operator's License.
 
6). Ability to become knowledgeable of quantitative laboratory analysis, including legal chain of custody and quality control.
 
7). Demonstrate ability to work with and direct others.
 
8). Amiss Plant Assignment - Hold or be able to obtain Class 4 Water Production, Water Treatment and Water Distribution Certificates issued by the State of Louisiana, Dept. of Health and Hospitals within 3 years.
 
Normal Promotion Path from this Class:
Laboratory Manager
 
Physical Requirements: Tasks involve the regular and, at times, sustained performance of moderately physically demanding work, typically involving some combination of climbing and balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling, and that may involve the lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling of moderately heavy objects and materials (10-30) pounds).  Jobs must be performed with or without accommodations. Tasks requires sitting for prolonged periods of time at a keyboard or workstation.
 
Work Environment: Tasks are performed with risk of exposure to adverse environmental conditions, such as temperature and noise extremes, wetness, humidity, animals, insects, toxic/poisonous agents, and strong odors.