JOB SUMMARY

Works with the Supervisor of Sample Control to coordinate and administer the chain of custody program which governs all samples submitted to the Analytical Services department. Informs laboratory staff of priority samples and sample anomalies. Assists the laboratory management team as needed with operational functions including data reporting, project management, client communications and the coordination of contract laboratory analyses. Adheres to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and Sewer District guidelines. Performs other duties of a similar nature as may be required. Some weekend work may be required.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Coordinates sample control activities including organizing sampling kits, supplies, sample tags and chain of custody documentation for internal and external clients while following strict quality control procedures and observing safe work practices.
• Prepares, reviews, maintains and organizes associated paperwork and records required to maintain the laboratory’s external and internal chain of custody program including, but not limited to, sample schedules, testing requirements, associated logbooks and disposal information.
• Checks and inspects chain of custody paperwork, sampling kits, and samples for completeness and errors. Effectively documents and communicates any priority samples, rush analyses, and sample discrepancies to supervision, the laboratory staff and internal and external clients.
• Understands and communicates with both internal and external clients the various sample handling techniques including sampling type, frequency, containers, and preservation needed for all analytical methods and/or regulatory program compliance.
• Critically evaluates information and documentation for accuracy and quality. Identifies faults in equipment and assists in diagnosing problems in processes. Logs in and tracks samples for compliance with required analyses, analyzes data, validates sample chain of custody and informs users of anomalies. Aliquots, preserves and distributes samples for routine analytical work. Utilizes logbooks and forms to track sample custody and ensures proper handling and aliquoting techniques are used.
• Inspects and audits the sample receiving area to ensure that all supplies and materials are available to complete daily assignments and that all records are completed correctly and consistently. Coordinates delivery of, and completes all associated paperwork for, samples submitted for analysis to a contract laboratory. Maintains accurate and legible logbooks, reports and records.
• Works closely with the Supervisor of Sample Control to develop forms and procedures for the laboratory’s chain of custody program. Instructs other analysts in appropriate aliquoting techniques, chain of custody procedures and sample handling techniques.
• Analyzes environmental samples using basic analytical procedures.
• Provides spoken and written information to managers, supervisors, and team members regarding samples, chain of custody, and other laboratory operations-related information. Assists in the preparation and reporting of analytical data.
• Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with fellow employees, internal and external customers.
• Responsible for coordinating and directing laboratory staff performing sample aliquoting duties and ensuring proper handling and documentation of all samples according to established guidelines.
• Performs other duties of a similar nature as may be required.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATION

• Candidate must possess a bachelor’s degree, preferably in Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, or a closely related field.
• Equivalent combinations of relevant education and experience may be substituted as outlined in the Education Equivalencies Policy.

EXPERIENCE

• Candidate must possess three (3) years of experience in a position performing duties including collecting, analyzing and coordinating laboratory samples, preferably in an environmental laboratory involving water, wastewater or sludge samples.
• Experience must include one (1) year dealing with quality assurance/quality control processes and procedures and one (1) year leading people and/or processes through various procedures or projects to successfully accomplish goals and objectives. An understanding of environmental sampling techniques and experience reaching conclusions from analysis of sample specimens taken is also required.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

LICENSURE AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Candidate must possess a valid driver’s license with a driving record in accordance with the Sewer District’s acceptable guidelines.
• A valid Class II State of Ohio Wastewater Analyst Certificate is preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Candidates must be detail oriented and able to prioritize and complete tasks efficiently.
• Candidate must possess leadership and analytical skills.
• Candidates must be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word and Excel software.
• Candidate must have the ability to perform routine chemical analyses quickly and accurately, keep detailed records, and write reports.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

During the course of performing the essential functions of this position the employee must be able to compile, compare, compute, analyze, copy, coordinate and instruct. Ability to communicate while exhibiting strong interpersonal skills is required. Physical work will need to be performed, such as standing, sitting, walking, climbing, balancing, kneeling, stooping, crouching, reaching, handling, fingering, feeling, hearing, and talking. Ability to lift up to 66 lbs. on an occasional basis. Position will require visual demands of near acuity, depth perception, color vision, accommodation and far acuity. The position requires office and site work. When transferring samples, the employee may experience exposure to extreme weather, extreme heat/cold that is non-weather related and atmospheric conditions. The employee will be exposed to hazards in the working environment and must have good dexterity.

The department is staffed a minimum of 50 hours per week; therefore, all employees are required to work a rotational schedule, including off shift and weekend hours. Working hours may also include consecutive weekends and/or holidays and may change on short notice.

Some laboratory projects can be event driven, or part of an emergency response and scheduling must be coordinated between multiple departments and may also be dependent upon the client’s needs.

Pay Range: USD, Commensurate with Experience

Min: $22.81 per hour

Mid: $28.51 per hour

NEORSD, an Equal Opportunity Employer

The Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce, recognizing the full range of human differences and similarities. Through our unwavering efforts to leverage the potential of our diversity, we continually strive to build and foster an environment that respects each individual. We encourage and promote innovation, and provide opportunities for all employees to interact, communicate, and realize the full potential of their talents.

Our Employee Benefits & Wellness Programs

We offer a comprehensive employee benefits package including Health Insurance Coverage, Various Retirement Planning Options (Ohio Public Employee Retirement System and Deferred Compensation Plans), Flexible Spending Accounts, Employee Assistance Program, Free Parking at our facilities, Corporate Discounts, and more! We also have an active Health & Wellness Program that promotes a life/work balance.

NEORSD supports the use of hybrid work as a way to help attract and retain talented individuals in public service, increase worker productivity and better prepares the agency to operate during emergencies. This position may be authorized for hybrid work. hybrid eligibility will be discussed during the interview process.

DISCLAIMER: The information outlined in this job description indicates the general nature and type of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not intended to provide a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities or competencies required of employees within this classification.