• Supervises the performance of standardized chemical and physical analyses of wastewater and wastewater byproducts; enforces minimum number of tests per unit; supervises laboratory helpers in the proper cleansing of laboratory glass and plasticware and in conducting simple laboratory tests; makes chemical calculations during testing process; uses standardized procedures to test wastewater and sludge for total and suspended solids, pH levels, volatile acids, dissolved oxygen content and other similar physical and chemical properties; maintains testing equipment and instruments; cleans test equipment and assigned work area; may enter or retrieve analytical data using computer terminal and appropriate software.

• Supervises the performance of water and wastewater sampling and water quality investigations for the City's water process plants and water distribution network; evaluates water and wastewater sampling procedures and schedules and implements changes; coordinates response to customer complaints of water quality problems; evaluates complaints and determines appropriate response; determines sample type and sampling techniques and dispatches staff to secure sample when appropriate; interacts with customers, explaining departmental response and results; communicates sample results to appropriate personnel for corrective action; supervises the collection of water samples involving the sanitizing of water mains; schedules sampling appointments; maintains sanitary release records; certifies water mains as acceptable for potable water delivery and reports results to water inspector; generates and releases sanitary release reports to engineering supervisor; ensures that sampling meets requirements of disinfection standards; ensures the laboratory's potable water sampling program is in compliance with federal and state safe drinking water regulations; evaluates route scheduling and makes adjustments to increase efficiency; reviews sanitary surveys and orders follow-up sampling.

BOTH SPECIALTIES

KNOWLEDGE OF:

• the principles and techniques used in setting up and operating standard laboratory instrumentation and equipment.
• the nomenclature, technical symbols, equipment and materials used in the chemical and biological testing of water and wastewater.
• laboratory safety practices and procedures.
• the techniques used in conducting basic chemical and biological tests.

• the principles of chemistry in relation to basic chemical tests.
• mathematical applications to standard chemical tests.
• analytical techniques as they apply to standard chemical testing.

• the equipment, methods, procedures and practices used in sampling water, wastewater and sludge.
• the fundamental causes and effects of water quality degradation and improvement.
• stream and estuary flow and natural runoff.
• the established principles and methods used in water sample collection, handling and transport.

BOTH SPECIALTIES

• performing standardized tests and making repetitive chemical analysis quickly and accurately.
• the use and care of laboratory equipment, instruments and materials.

BOTH SPECIALTIES

• supervise a small group of technicians performing standard chemical tests and sample collection for a laboratory facility.
• prepare and consolidate reports and logs showing test results and daily laboratory activities.
• coordinate testing activities to obtain accurate test results.
• maintain an inventory of laboratory materials, supplies and equipment necessary for daily operations.
• evaluate the technical quality of subordinates' work and provide the necessary technical support.
• review standard testing and sample collection procedures and make recommendations for improvement.
• train subordinates in new testing methodology, sample collection and safety procedures.
• learn to use a computer terminal to enter or retrieve data.
• establish and maintain effective working relationships with laboratory personnel and other department units and the general public.
• present ideas effectively, both orally and in writing.

• prepare, read and interpret technical plans, layouts, charts, diagrams, schematics, maps, estimates, specifications and test reports.
• install and operate water sampling equipment.

GENERAL SPECIALTY

EDUCATION:

• Completion of a two-year program at a technical institute with major coursework in water technology, biology, chemistry, environmental studies.
  OR

• Completion of fifteen semester hours in chemistry at an accredited college or university, which has included six semester hours in chemistry laboratory work.
  AND

• Two years of experience performing standardized routine chemical tests in a water or wastewater laboratory.

EDUCATION:

• Completion of a two-year program at a technical institute or an accredited college or university with major coursework in water or engineering technology, biology, chemistry or environmental studies.

SPECIFIC EXPERIENCE:

• Two years of experience performing standardized routine tests in a water or wastewater laboratory, one year of which has included monitoring a program of water quality investigations and evaluating water and wastewater sampling procedures.

• Ability to physically perform the duties and to work in the environmental conditions required of a position in this class.

• Possession of a valid proper class motor vehicle operator's license as issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania prior to appointment and during tenure of appointment as a Chemical Technician Supervisor, Water Sampling specialty.

PAY RANGE: EP12
Class Established:
  CSC - 8/1991 ; Ad Board - 10/1991

Latest Spec. Revision:
  CSC - 11/1994 ; Ad Board - 1/1995

TV/sb/ps