Environmental Technologist Ii

*Job Announcement*

Works as a senior member of a team that collects and prepares, from a variety of sources, environmental samples for analysis in the laboratory. Primary responsibilities will include utilizing EPA-approved methods specified in 40 CFR Part 136 in the performance of professional level analyses involving GC/MS. Secondary analytical responsibilities will include utilizing EPA-approved laboratory methods and procedures, following NELAP/VELAP guidelines, for the determination of heavy metals utilizing AA, ICP-OES, & Mercury Analyzer in ash, compost, groundwater, leachate, sludge, surface water, and wastewater. Interprets and analyzes data and enters it into the LIMS for review by the Section Supervisor, and ultimate use in the generation of inter- and intra-agency reports. Writes reports as required and participates in all facets of operations conducted by an environmental laboratory including the writing and review of SOPs, participation in the safety program, and maintenance of the laboratory water supply system. Performs related duties as required.

*Illustrative Duties*

(The illustrative duties listed in this specification are representative of the class but are not an all inclusive list. A complete list of position duties and unique physical requirements can be found in the position description.)

* Level I *

Performs routine and non-routine sample analyses and maintains Demonstration of

Capability requirements for all parameters in either the Metals or Organics Section of the

Environmental Monitoring Laboratory;

Serves as a team lead for advanced section assigned;

Performs environmental analyses in the general section of the Environmental Monitoring

Laboratory to meet regulatory requirements;

Performs special lab testing and instrumental repairs;

Performs sample preparation and instrument calibration, maintenance, and

troubleshooting in section assigned;

Maintains and reviews test Quality Control data on a daily basis;

Completes analyses and enters laboratory data into LIMS;

Maintains appropriate logbooks and other documentation to maintain traceability of

samples received;

Reviews and submits data in a timely manner;

Performs required statistical calculations;

Participates in equipment maintenance, field work, method development, laboratory

analyses, and write-up of results;

Investigates all testing and data reporting that is outside of the prescribed control limits;

Takes necessary steps to bring into control; works directly with the section supervisor to effect appropriate solutions;

Reviews all laboratory test data for correctness and commonality; participates in the

preparation of weekly, monthly, and quarterly reports pertaining to process control,

chemical usage and discharge monitoring;

Trouble-shoots laboratory test procedures; trains new technicians in laboratory

procedures, calculations, NPDES permit tests, sampling methodology, and preparation of working stock and standard solutions;

Prepares chemical reagents and standard curves;

Conducts special studies such as sampling plan evaluations, sampling holding

procedures, and comparability and new methods evaluations to improve quality control and/or efficiency.

* Level 2 *

Includes all from Level I, plus below as listed;

Performs routine and non-routine sample analyses and maintains Demonstration of

Capability requirements for all parameters in the Metals and Organics Section of the

Environmental Monitoring Laboratory;

Performs all routine and non-routine tests or regulatory functions associated with

wastewater, air, stream, estuary, sediment, sludge, ash, leachate, groundwater, and toxic or controlled substances or discharges in the general and advanced laboratory as assigned;

Contributes significantly in developing or maintaining a laboratory program, such as,

Laboratory Safety, Ordering Laboratory Supplies, Maintaining DI Water System,

Chemical Inventory, Hazardous Waste Disposal, Spreadsheet and Report Development, and Continuity of Operations Program;

Establishes warning and control limits on all tests and parameters to ensure accuracy and reproducibility of all data;

Monitors submerged aquatic vegetation, algal populations and fish species;

Instructs field personnel in use of equipment and required safety procedures;

Develops laboratory computer applications and designs and prepares associated

programs;

Prepares laboratory monitoring and processes control reports for submission to the State.

*Required Knowledge Skills and Abilities*

(The knowledge, skills and abilities listed in this specification are representative of the class but are not an all inclusive list.)

* Level 1 *

Ability to perform environmental analyses in the general section of the Environmental

Monitoring Laboratory to meet regulatory requirements and perform all of the

procedures/parameters in either the metals or organics section, documented through Demonstration of Capability procedures;

Knowledge of the principles and techniques of analytical chemistry, biochemistry and

microbiology;

Ability to perform associated analysis and record accurate conclusions;

Knowledge of applicable Federal, State and County procedures and regulations;

Ability to identify violations;
Ability to train others;

Ability to work independently and make relevant independent judgments;

* Level 2 *

(Includes all from Level 1, plus below as listed)

Ability to perform all procedures/parameters in the General Testing Laboratory and the Advanced Testing Labs, documented through Demonstration of Capability procedure;

*Employment Standards*

*MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: * * Level I * Any combination of education, experience, and training equivalent to the following:
(Click on the aforementioned link to learn how Fairfax County interprets equivalencies for "Any combination, experience, and training equivalent to")
Graduation from an accredited four year college or a university with a degree in chemistry, biology or related science; plus two years of professional experience performing chemical , biochemical, microbiological, and physical tests and/or regulatory control and/or data management on wastewater, streams, estuary or industrial wastes. The two years of experience must include one year of advanced instrumentation testing utilizing GC-MS or ICP, GFAA, and AA. EPA methods utilized should include one of the following sets along with appropriate preparation methods; 1) 200.7, 200.9, 245.1, 1311, 7000 series, or 2) 624, 625, 1311, 8260, and 8270.

**CERTIFICATES AND LICENSES REQUIRED:* *
A valid driver's license.

**NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:*
*The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check, driving record check, and pre-employment physical to the satisfaction of the employer.

See the Environmental Monitoring Laboratory's Upward Mobility Program Policy for the requirements necessary to move from Level 1 through Level 2.

**PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:**
Two years of experience performing GC/MS analyses using EPA Methods from 600/8000 series and SW-846 methods for the analysis of TCLP including extractions on wastewater and environmental samples.

**PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:*
*Occasionally lift/carry, in cooperation with another employee, equipment weighting up to 50 pounds. Occasionally work in environments with exposure to water pollutants/pathogens, airborne substances/ hazards and loud noise. All duties performed with or without reasonable accommodations.

*SELECTION PROCEDURE:*
Panel interview and may include exercise.

**Fairfax County Government prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or status as a veteran in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce. *

*Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314. EEO/AA/TTY.