About the Department

Under limited supervision, collects and analyzes environmental samples for environmental protection and monitoring purposes. Prepare, collect, and analyze water and wastewater samples as required by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Florida Department of Health specifications; and other related duties as assigned. 

Position Duties

The job duties/responsibilities listed below are those that an employee must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation. The list of duties is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this classification. The omission of a duty does not preclude management from assigning essential duties not listed herein if such duties relate to the position.  Management may modify this description as the needs and requirements of the position change. 

• Performs safe collection of sampling of drinking water, raw water, and wastewater as directed by administration. 
• Collects water samples from different areas in the distribution system or water treatment facilities. 
• Delivers samples to outside laboratories for special testing, if necessary. 
• Performs colorimetric tests on water specimens. 
• Collects routine samples according to permit requirements on monitoring wells (e.g. chlorides, pH, chlorine residual, etc.) 
• Prepares sampling containers of proper size, type and appropriately labeled and recorded for the specific sampling event. 
• Prepares and completes the appropriate chain of custody forms for documentation of field analysis.
• Calibrates field analysis instruments utilizing standards with confirmed values and reviews the instrument readings against the standard value upper and lower limits. 
• Provides verbal and written communication(s) to treatment plant Superintendent through telephone and alert sheets. 
• Documents analysis results on the appropriate paperwork.
• Maintains logbooks and performs records maintenance. 
• Disposes of samples no longer required and cleans containers and glassware. 
• Maintains the inventory of sampling containers, glassware, and standards, solutions, and equipment for field operations. 
• Assists with analytical functions and calibrations in the general water laboratory as needed. 
• Operates and maintains a motor vehicle for sampling events. 
• Performs assigned duties as required immediately before, during and after hurricanes and other natural and man-made disasters and emergencies.
• Collect after-hours samples related to emergencies (water main breaks, SSO, etc.).
  • Perform other related duties as assigned. 

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

Associate degree from an accredited college or university with a major in biology, chemistry, environmental science and (Education will be verified) and six (6) months of experience in an environmental laboratory performing sampling or analysis of drinking water or closely related field is required.

A valid State of Florida driver’s license is required. 

Alternate Qualifications:

Bachelor degree from an accredited college or university with a major in biology, chemistry, environmental science and (Education will be verified). 

 A valid State of Florida driver’s license is required. 

Other Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of principles and practices of water and wastewater treatment.  
• Knowledge of the principle practices and techniques of chemistry and bacteriology. 
• Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office suite, and other related software programs. 
• Skill in operating, calibrating and maintaining a variety of laboratory instruments and equipment. 
• Skill in oral communication in one-on-one and group situations.
• Ability to complete logs, reports and QA forms in a timely manner. 
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions. 
• Ability to work in adverse weather and hazardous conditions. 
• Ability to effectively operate testing equipment for the analysis of water and wastewater samples and to keep equipment clean and in good working order. 
• Ability to apply scientific knowledge in performing laboratory tests.

Physical Standards Required to Perform Essential Job Duties:

The position supervises or performs moderate to heavy work in all types of weather. The employee is required to walk, climb, stand, stoop, and must be able to lift, push and move up to 50 lbs. and perform other similar actions during the course of the workday. Specific vision abilities this job requires include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. The employee must be able to wear gloves, safety glasses, goggles, a respirator, and safety shoes/boots.  The applicant will have frequent exposure to electrical shock, dust, mist, vapors, gases, heat, cold, fumes, toxins, explosives, blood-borne pathogens, drugs, poisons, loud noise, toxic metals, and other hazards not listed.