Laboratory Scientist II

This is a professional position that utilizes advanced analytical instrumentation and techniques to perform complex testing of drinking water and source water, as necessary to maintain compliance with state and federal regulatory requirements; performs necessary duties to keep the methods in this section certified; evaluates results and enters data into Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS); performs method development/optimization; strictly adheres to the Tampa Bay Water's Laboratory Water Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) Manual.
Tampa Bay Water has an immediate need for a Laboratory Scientist II to be assigned to the Metals section of the Laboratory. Interested candidates are required to have experience processing and analyzing potable and raw (untreated) samples for drinking water mineral and trace metals using State of Florida-approved methods from the USEPA and/or Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater. Candidates must have experience using inductively-coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) and inductively-coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS).

Experience in some or all other laboratory sections (e.g., Anions, Organics, Wet Chemical Analyses, and Microbiology) is preferred, but the immediate requirement is for a Laboratory Scientist II to perform metals analyses in accordance with the requirements identified in the Tampa Bay Water Job Description.

Job Requirements:
Chemistry Section:

• When assigned to the Anions, Metals, or Organic chemistry laboratory sections, conducts quantitative analysis of mineral anions, inorganic disinfection byproducts, drinking water mineral and trace metals, total organic carbon, haloacetic acids, aldehydes, ketones, organic disinfection byproducts of chlorination and ozonation, and volatile organic contaminants in both potable and raw water samples using State of Florida-approved methods from EPA or Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater;
• Utilizes advanced analytical instrumentation applicable to the assigned analyses, including ion chromatography, inductively coupled plasma/atomic emission spectroscopy, gas chromatography, gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry.
• Performs wet chemical analyses analysis of alkalinity and ammonia using meters and probes, color by visual comparison, total dissolved solids using gravimetric analysis, and turbidity using a ratio turbidimeter.
• Must achieve acceptable results for semi-annual Proficiency Tests.
• Capable of independent interpretation of analytical results which require advanced scientific mastery and complex problem-solving abilities.
• Performs required quality control checks before entering results into LIMS.
• Performs analytical method development in advance of seeking certification for new methods.
• Updates Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's) in respective sections.
• Performs routine maintenance and troubleshooting on instrumentation.
• Determines the need for manufacturer assistance through service contract, and schedules service visits by the manufacturer representative to have minimum impact on work schedule and sample collection.
• Communicates with field technicians to assure the proper samples are collected and delivered.
• Logs in samples.
• Responsible for periodically reporting analytical results to member governments.
• Determines which new methods/technologies could be implemented to in-source new analyses.
  
• Ability to work effectively with all levels of management and other colleagues and demonstrate initiative, mature judgment, customer service orientation, and ability to anticipate needs of the organization.
• Works flexible hours as needed.
• Observes Safety Policies and Procedures in accordance with the Agency Safety Program.
• Performs related work as directed.

Disaster Service Worker: Employees of Tampa Bay Water are, by State and Federal law, Disaster Service Workers. In the event of a declaration of emergency, any employee may be assigned activities that promote the protection of public health and safety or the preservation of lives and property, either at the Agency or within the local community or their own community.
MINIMUM TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:

• Six (6) years of experience in analytical laboratory.
• Experience with drinking water methodology.
• Experience in method development.
• Experience in developing, implementing and maintaining a time-efficient work schedule for the instrumental analysis of samples and reporting of results.
• Knowledge of computer programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Access and financial software, as well as a LIMS program (Munis and LABWORKS preferred).
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.

EDUCATION REQUIRED:

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, microbiology, or any related field from an accredited university. Masters' Degree in chemistry, biology, microbiology or any related field from an accredited university may substitute for two years of experience in an analytical laboratory.

REQUIRED LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS:

• All FDEP laboratory certifications to conduct analyses under charge.
• Valid driver's license.

MINIMUM STANDARDS REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Physical Abilities: Tasks involve the ability to exert moderate, though not constant physical effort, typically involving some combination of climbing and balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling, and which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate weight (15-20 pounds).

Sensory Abilities: Some tasks require visual perception and discrimination. Some tasks require oral communications ability.

Environmental Requirements: Tasks may risk exposure to extremes in temperature, wetness, humidity, and wildlife.

NOTE: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other related duties as required to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.