Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago

Laboratory Assistant (#20003621)

General Statement

Under immediate supervision, performs routine chemical laboratory work in the cleaning and assembling of apparatus and does simple distillation, filtration and drying.

Essential Job Functions

Essential job functions are fundamental, core functions common to positions in a classification.  They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class.  Since class specifications are designed to be descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents may complete one or all of the job duties listed or tasks of similar kind not specifically listed here.

  • Collects samples as directed from various stages of sewage treatment or from streams and sewers, recording temperature and other conditions under which samples are taken.
  • Washes glassware, prepares samples, stores glassware, cleans laboratory shelves and tables, and unpacks supplies.
  • Bottles and labels samples and adds chemicals or preservatives according to directions.
  • Grinds and filters samples for analysis.

Other Job Functions

  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Environmental Conditions

May involve exposure to a variety of chemical and biological materials, some of which may be hazardous or toxic. 

May involve exposure to fumes and noxious odors.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Some knowledge of laboratory apparatus and equipment.
  • Some knowledge of laboratory safety.
  • Ability to follow oral and written instructions

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Graduation from a standard senior high school or the equivalent.  Possession of a valid driver's license.

Substitution

Full time paid experience in a chemical, biological, or related laboratory performing routine duties may be substituted for two years of the required education on a year-for-year basis.

Promotional Requirement

  • None
CLASS: 20003621; EST: 1/1/1900;