Environmental Laboratory Technician

Description: ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES The environmental laboratory technician prepares and test samples of water and other materials to identify sources of contamination.
Technicians use a variety of testing methods and equipment that they must calibrate.
They record, report, and summarize the data from test results, and discuss them with supervisors and customers.
General Duties • Provides assistance to laboratory customers on proper collection and submission of laboratory specimens.
• Compares and verifies incoming samples and requisition forms; reviews laboratory documents for accuracy, completeness, and compliance; ensures the integrity of samples received.
• Prepares media and solutions for use in laboratory tests.
• Prepares requisitions and orders lab supplies.
Receives all lab supplies and stores them.
• Performs routine bacteriological testing of public and private water samples, soft serve samples, and ice samples.
• Performs routine chemical screenings of water samples.
• Performs all washing and sterilizing of laboratory bottles and glassware.
• Performs all quality control for laboratory, including calibration of equipment and annual proficiency testing.
• Prepares for and participates in laboratory certification by the state every three years.
• Operates and maintains specialized laboratory equipment, tests for proper function.
• Collects, sterilizes, neutralizes and/or disposes all hazardous waste, laboratory test specimens, contaminated glassware, and protective equipment.
• Communicates test results and responds to inquiries from health professionals, state and local agencies and public.
• Enters, updates and/or retrieves testing information/results utilizing specialized databases and management systems.
• Prepares report of monthly testing totals for lab.
• Prepares and delivers monthly public reports to state and local Department of Natural Resources.
• Maintains all laboratory records.
• Prepares, reviews, and implements quality assurance plan and procedure manual for lab.
• Provides training and oversight of co-workers on policies, procedures, and safety protocols.
• Performs community outreach such as presentations regarding the laboratory to groups or individuals upon request.
Organizes tours and learning opportunities.
• Exercises independence and judgement in the performance of responsibilities, carries out assigned responsibilities within established guidelines and receives general administrative direction.
• Performs other related work as assigned.
• Practice safe work habits and ensure appropriate use of PPE Requirements: QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS Time Management Skills, Excellent Communication Skills, Reporting Skills, Results-Oriented, Problem Solving Skills, Computer skills, Interpersonal relations skills.
EXAMPLES OF REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES 1.
Working knowledge of basic science terminology, concepts, and principles.
2.
Working knowledge of laboratory procedures, techniques, and equipment 3.
Ability to properly operate autoclaves, incubators, balances, and other laboratory equipment.
4.
Ability to apply proper methods of handling and disposing of chemicals and infectious materials.
5.
Skill in laboratory manipulative techniques.
6.
Ability to perform assigned tasks according to standard protocol and prescribed procedures.
7.
Ability to read, compare, identify, and record laboratory data accurately, such as names, numbers, sample descriptions, etc.
8.
Ability to perform basic mathematics and make accurate measurements.
9.
Ability to make accurate observations and prepare accurate records of laboratory tests.
10.
Ability to work with other employees, laboratory staff, health professionals and the public.
ADDITIONAL NOTES MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING QUALIFICATIONS An associate degree (environmental, physical, life science or related field of study) from an accredited school.
Valid laboratory license or certification from ASCP, AMT, AAB or equivalent.
One to two years working as a laboratory technician OR Graduation from an accredited four- year college or university resulting in receipt of a bachelor’s degree.
Valid laboratory license or certification from ASCP, AMT, AAB or equivalent.
Necessary Special Requirements Special Note All employees of JCHD are considered First Responders in the Event of a Disaster Response Situation.
All employees must report for duty upon request of the Director during a public health emergency.
Employee acknowledgement of this requirement _____ (initials)