WATER QUALITY CHEMIST (#TM7 )

Under direction, to plan and conduct water quality monitoring, to operate an analytical chemistry laboratory, to conduct chemical laboratory analysis, to interpret water quality information, to maintain a water quality data base, to identify pollution problems and develop mitigation measures; and to do other work as required.

Incumbents in this journey level class are responsible for identifying problems, analyzing data and developing recommendations and mitigating measures. Incumbents work independently to monitor water quality, operate an analytical chemistry laboratory, perform inorganic and organic chemical work, and analyze data using a water quality data management system. Additionally, incumbents serve as a resource to staff.

Conducts a variety of standard and specialized chemical laboratory tests, analysis and studies related to water quality; identifies problems and develops mitigating measures to correct water quality problems; establishes baseline values in order to measure future results against baseline data to detect problems; develops sampling techniques and collects water samples; maintains computerized laboratory records; prepares technical reports and correspondence; selects, operates and maintains laboratory equipment e.g., a gas chromatograph; interprets water quality data and makes recommendations for resource management; may plan, assign and review the work of staff engaged in collecting water samples and performing laboratory tests; selects laboratory and field analytical methods for water quality analysis; serves as a resource and technical advisor to staff on issues of water quality; assists in developing sampling locations, water quality protection programs, and methods of analyzing data; may represent the County to other governmental agencies on issues relating to water quality; assures that laboratory procedures and tests meet quality control standards to maintain certification; keeps abreast of technical changes in equipment and procedures; attends meetings and conferences; prepares reports and correspondence; inputs, accesses and analyzes data using a computer.

Knowledges:

• Thorough knowledge of principles of chemistry;
• Working knowledge of current chemical laboratory procedures, methods, equipment, facilities and materials;
• Some knowledge of common hazards in operating chemical laboratory equipment and appropriate safety precautions;
• Some knowledge of the repair and maintenance of laboratory equipment;
• Some knowledge of the application of data processing and computerized analysis techniques.

Ability to:

• Plan and conduct difficult complex chemical analyses;
• Analyze, evaluate and draw logical conclusions from complex data;
• Prepare and present technical reports and recommendations;
• Provide technical assistance to staff and other departments;
• Select, operate and maintain laboratory equipment;
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with others contacted in the course of work;
• Learn to apply basic hydrological principles to water quality analysis;
• Maintain accurate records;
• Collect field samples and perform field analyses;
• Walk through rough terrain and creek beds;
• Learn to input, access and analyze data using a computer.

Training and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience which would provide the required knowledges and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain these knowledges and abilities would be:

• Equivalent to graduation from an accredited four year college or university with a major in chemistry or a related field and one year experience in chemical research and analysis.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• Possess and maintain a valid California Class C Driver's License.