Chemist

Job Summary:

A laboratory chemist performs the analytical methods, associated techniques and quality measures necessary to obtain data that is evaluated for control of the operation of the wastewater treatment plant.

The duties of this job include, but are not limited to:

1. Perform routine, specialized and complex chemical, bacteriological and physical tests and analyses of raw, partially treated wastewater and by-products to determine efficiency of plant processes. Ensure that plant effluent meets local, state, and federal requirements. Perform analysis on Industrial Samples collected by the Industrial Waste Inspector.

2. Collect samples of plant influent, partially treated wastewater, sludge, effluent and other by-products. Frequency will be daily, quarterly and semi-annually.

3. Prepare test solutions, compounds, and reagents for conducting routine tests. Assemble instruments and equipment for analytical analysis. Develop or set-up new test methods upon request. Maintain inventory and preparation records.

4. Perform general maintenance of all laboratory instruments and equipment, making sure that all technology is working correctly. Troubleshoot any issues or problems that may arise. Instruments and equipment include the following, but not limited to; balances, incubators, water baths, steam bath, refrigerator, DI system & filters, sterilizer, dishwasher, electrodes & meters, glassware, composite samplers, ovens, AA & GFAA, etc. Perform custodial duties in the laboratory.

5. Accurately calculate & record test data, maintain records, prepare data sheets & reports. Document & record required information on daily bench sheets. Record and graph all quality control results for each batch of analysis. Analytes include but are not limited to; Cyanide, Oil & Grease, CBOD/BOD, Ammonia, pH, TSS, Fecal coliform, E.coli, Metals, Phosphorus and Chlorine.

6.Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Quality Manual for all test analysis. Be able to reference Standard Methods, Chapter 252, or any other literature sited in the SOPs.

7. Cooperate with all regulatory agencies during any onsite or virtual audit pertaining to the City of Erie Wastewater Treatment Plant.

8. Recommend modifications in process operation in those areas where laboratory control is applicable.

9.Act as liaison between plant and chemical/engineering firms interested in introducing new chemicals or modifications to the system. Act as back-up for the Industrial Waste Inspector/Lab Technician.

10. Follow all safety regulations as specified by the City of Erie.

11. Conduct tours of plant for those interested in the technical aspects of plant operations.

12. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Must have a Bachelor’s degree in a Science curriculum; Chemistry preferred. The chemist should have strong problem-solving, critical thinking, & analytical skills. The chemist must be able to satisfy State and Federal required laboratory Quality Assurance Standards to meet the necessary level of quality.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT: pH/ion meter, spectrometer, computer, analytical balance, stir plate, microscope, Atomic Absorption and Graphite Furnace, and other related equipment. Quality Manual and Standard Operating Procedures.

THE CITY OF ERIE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND ALL EMPLOYEES SHALL BE TREATED EQUALLY WITH REGARD TO DISCRIMINATION AS TO AGE, SEX MARITAL STATUS, RACE, COLOR, CREED, NATIONAL ORIGIN, HANDICAP OR POLITICAL AFFILIATION.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $30.09 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Experience:

• Laboratory experience: 1 year (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

• Erie, PA 16507: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $30