Laboratory Technician I, II (SG-369-25E) - Various at Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts, CA

LOCATION: 
     TECHNICAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, LABORATORIES SECTION
 
VARIOUS LOCATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS:

NOTE: 
     This posting is for vacancies at any of the above listed locations.  The applicant must identify the locations to which they are applying in the supplemental questions.  All positions require a variable work schedule with possibly non-consecutive days off and working all weekends and holidays.  Possible assignments may include:  Sample Receiving, Quality Assurance, Wastewater Treatment Plant Laboratories, Client Services, Research, Organics, or Metals.
 
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 
    To collect environmental samples and perform a variety of routine chemical, biological or microbiological tests and analyses.
 
JOB SUMMARY: 
     Under the general supervision of a Supervising Scientist, the incumbent conducts and participates in a variety of routine chemical, biological, and microbiological analyses on aqueous and solid samples from sanitary landfills, industrial waste, wastewater treatment facilities, including plant influent and effluent, bodies of water receiving effluents and other sources to determine the effectiveness of treatment and conformance to State of California and State of Arizona requirements; prepares media,  standard solutions and reagents; inspects, adjusts, cleans, maintains and operates laboratory equipment, materials and work area; assists with special research projects; inputs data into computers; keeps laboratory records and prepares laboratory reports; collects samples from treatment facilities, rivers, shorelines, and ground waters; and performs related duties as required.
 
The LABORATORY TECHNICIAN I is the entry level training class in the series.  Incumbents follow standardized procedures or detailed instructions to perform a limited range of laboratory tests.

   The LABORATORY TECHNICIAN II is the experienced working level class in the series.  Incumbents perform a broad range of both standardized and non-standardized tests and analyses.  This class differs from the Laboratory Technician I class by the greater technical knowledge required to conduct the more complex sampling, analyses and the greater independence of action exercised.

     Candidates must possess: A valid California Class C driver license for positions performing on-the-job driving -AND- For LABORATORY TECHNICIAN I, any education or experience which provides the knowledge and skills listed. 

     For LABORATORY TECHNICIAN II, twelve semester units of college chemistry -AND- Two years of laboratory experience conducting chemical, biological or microbiological analyses and tests in sewage or water treatment operations. A bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology or closely related science may substitute for one year of experience.

     The competitive selection process may cover a knowledge of:  The principles of chemistry, biology, microbiology, and related sciences; the principles and methods of chemical, biological, and microbiological testing and analyses; chemicals and materials used in laboratory analyses and their properties; standard laboratory techniques, basic algebra, laboratory practices pertaining to safety; and equipment use, trouble-shooting, care and maintenance.  The ability to:  Conduct chemical, biological, and microbiological laboratory tests of solid and liquid samples using standardized methods; understand and carry out technical instructions, communicate effectively both orally and in writing, accurately take and record measurements including weights and temperatures, use of laboratory equipment and materials; maintain records and prepare reports, drive to various Districts facilities as well as sampling sites.