What are the responsibilities and job description for the Quality Assurance Reporting Specialist position at Trinity River Authority of Texas?
ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Manager, Laboratory Services
Laboratory Supervisor
POSITION SUMMARY
This position is directly responsible for the interpretation of water and wastewater data and regulations in accordance with accreditation requirements. This position assumes responsibility for working independently and exercising competent judgment in performing a variety of complex data analyses and validation on biological, and invertebrate identifications, and chemical analyses on water, wastewater, soil, and sludge samples. Individuals must have working knowledge of all advanced laboratory instrumentation and should possess knowledge of scientific methodology to develop more efficient procedures. The position must be able to train and certify other staff in these are of operations through internal training and auditing of laboratory practices.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Employs knowledge of test methods and accreditation requirements to provide quality assurance and quality control guidance for chemical and microbiological analyses as well as to maintain the TRA RS&C Laboratory TNI accreditation
2. Writes and revises the quality manual, standard operating procedures, and other quality system documentation; maintains document control system.
3. Assists with scheduling and record keeping of quality assurance procedures as required by the quality program and regulatory requirements; including but not limited to proficiency testing, and initial and ongoing demonstrations of capability.
4. Plans and conducts internal laboratory audits to verify operations comply with the quality system.
5. Issues, reviews, and follow-ups on corrective and preventative actions to address identified laboratory deficiencies.
6. Review laboratory data and prepare reports for delivery to clients and regulatory agencies according to client and agency specifications.
7. Interfaces with laboratory customers, sub-contract laboratory personnel, and TRA RS&C laboratory personnel to answer questions and provide accurate data for final reports.
8. Recommends laboratory improvements concerning customer data and quality systems.
9. Provides analytical training and guidance to laboratory staff as necessary.
10. Represents Laboratory Supervisor(s) during absences
11. Performs other relevant job duties as assigned
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
Regularly leads the work of other employees.
FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
No significant financial responsibilities
QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION
Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or a related science from an accredited University or College.
EXPERIENCE
Four years of water or wastewater laboratory experience with advanced instrumental training.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
Valid Texas driver's license. Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (or predecessor agency) Class C Wastewater or Water Operator's Certificates of Competency is preferred.
KNOWLEDGE
Extensive working knowledge of Bacteriological, Inorganic, and Organic Chemistry methods performed within the laboratory. Knowledge of advanced analytical, mathematical, and statistical concepts and their application in conducting chemical and bacteriological analyses. Knowledge of quality control and quality assurance procedures. Knowledge of TNI standards and NELAP requirements
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Ability to use a Laboratory Information Management System, Labware preferred. Intermediate-level skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint software packages. Skill in maintaining accurate detailed records and preparing clear and concise written reports. Skill in communicating by oral and written means. Ability to make responsible decisions and direct analysts as required by circumstances. Ability to review data with attention to detail
GUIDANCE RECEIVED
Receives periodic supervision and uses guidelines/range of procedures: Follows periodic direct instructions and guidelines, uses policies and procedures that require some interpretation. Problems that cannot be addressed through an existing guideline, policy, or procedure are referred to a supervisor or a more senior position. Incumbents must exercise judgment about whether to escalate issues.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Duties are always carried out in a laboratory or office environment. Working conditions include exposure to odors, chemical hazards, and fumes.
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED USE
Technical equipment and instrumentation used in the laboratory, and office equipment including computer and calculator.
