Chemist 3 bei Pinellas County Utilities

Do you have experience administering a quality assurance program within an environmental laboratory?  We have the ideal career opportunity for you!  

Pinellas County Utilities is seeking a Chemist 3/Quality Assurance Officer with experience implementing a successful Quality Assurance program within a NELAP certified lab.  The Utility Department’s Water Quality Laboratory is a state certified laboratory that analyzes both environmental and drinking water samples.  As a Chemist 3/Quality Assurance Officer, you will lead the laboratory QA program helping to ensure that the laboratory is compliant in the testing of chemical, biological, microbiological and physical analysis of drinking water, environmental water and solids/sludges. The Chemist 3/Quality Assurance Officer will maintain accurate and comprehensive records, provide expert knowledge, demonstrate skills of reliability, and uphold integrity to ensure quality assurance compliance.  Work is performed under the general direction of a Quality Manager. 

This Chemist 3 (Quality Assurance Officer) position is located at:  Logan Laboratory, 1620 Ridge Road, Building B, Largo, FL 33778.  Work Schedule: Monday – Friday; 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

What Would You Do? 

• Promote Quality Systems throughout the laboratory in accordance with the TNI standard 
• Conduct internal audits of laboratory methods which follow procedures established by Standard Methods, EPA and ASTM 
• Asist in development of new procedures for efficiency and effectiveness, special projects, or resource utilization 
• Track various laboratory performance measures and monitor laboratory documentation and processes 
• Develop and present various trainings including Data Ethics and Integrity training  
• Respond to customer inquiries as it relates to data validation and quality assurance procedures    
• Manage the Laboratory Proficiency Testing program 
• Advise on changes and updates that pertain to environmental laboratory certifications programs at the national, state and local level  
• Inspect records to ensure traceability of all testing procedures and compile data to evaluate errors and trends 
• Communicate with laboratory accrediting bodies as required and ensure the laboratory scope and certifications are maintained   
• Review data for quality control, permitting, and regulatory compliance  
• Utilize a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) database  
• Manage contracts with vendors such as third-party assessors and proficiency testing providers 
• Contribute to the overall effectiveness of Laboratory operations and participate in a team-oriented work environment  
• Performs related work as assigned or required 

What Do You Need To Have? 

Experience:  Environmental laboratory experience with a high level of expert knowledge of QA/QC principles and practices as it pertains to methodologies and laboratory accreditation requirements.  

Degree:   Chemistry, microbiology, biology, environmental science, physical sciences or engineering; or related discipline.

• 8 years' experience as described above.

• Associate's degree and 6 years' experience as described above.

• Bachelor's degree and 4 years experience as described above.

• Master's degree and 2 years' experience as described above.

• Doctoral degree and some experience as described above.

• An equivalent combination of training and experience.

• Possession and maintenance of a valid State of Florida Driver's License upon hire with eligibility based upon evaluation of a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) driving report..

• Assignment to work a variety of work schedules including compulsory work periods in special, emergency, and/or disaster situations.

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

Highly Desirable 

• Experience performing audits in a TNI certified Drinking Water and/or Environmental laboratory. 
• Experience in laboratory analysis including the understanding of automated analysis and instrumentation.  
• Experience working with Laboratory Information Management Systems and proficient in the use of Word, Excel, Outlook, Power Point, SharePoint and other applicable computer software applications. 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities 

• Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws and regulations pertaining to water quality, wastewater treatment, and data validity. 
• Knowledge of current regulations and methods used in the collection and analyses of samples.  
• Ability to meet deadlines, multi-task and follow written procedures. 
• Ability to communicate effectively and maintain effective working relationships with Pinellas County employees at all levels.  
• Ability to present scientific ideas and findings clearly and concisely in written, oral and graphic form.  

Why Choose Pinellas County?

When you join Pinellas County, you’re not just taking on a job—you’re investing in your future. We believe in supporting our employees with exceptional benefits that help you thrive both professionally and personally. Here's why our benefits stand out as some of the best in the area:

• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Enjoy affordable medical, dental, vision, life insurance, flexible spending accounts, and more that meet the needs of you and your family.
• Florida Retirement System (FRS): Secure your financial future with a robust retirement plan that gives you peace of mind as you plan for tomorrow.
• Generous leave time: Take advantage of time off to recharge and enjoy life outside of work.
• Wellness Program: Access to county gyms 24/7 and wellness programs as part of our commitment to employee wellness.
• Deferred compensation: Build your savings and plan for the future with flexible deferred compensation options tailored to your financial goals.
• To learn more, see What We Offer

Want to Learn More?

Please review the full classification description with the Physical/Mental Demands and Working Conditions at the below link.

https://pinellas.gov/class-specification/chemist-3/