Job Announcement

Follows EPA approved methods and protocols and prepares environmental samples collected from a variety of sample matrices for laboratory analysis in accordance with the laboratory's quality system and VELAP certification. Routinely uses sophisticated instrumentation including flow injector analyzers and spectrophotometers to perform analysis specified in 40 CRF Part 136. Additional instrumentation that may be used includes AA, ICP-OES, and/or GC/MS. Typically conducts analysis such as alkalinity, BOD, chloride, COD, coliforms, conductivity, cyanide, nitrogen, oil and grease, pH, phenol, phosphorus, protozoan and bacterial characterizations, and dissolved and suspended solids testing in ash, compost, groundwater, leachate, sludge, surface water and wastewater. Reviews, validates and submits completed analytical results into the laboratory information management system. As a member of a team-oriented program, contributes and participates on job-related teams as needed. Writes reports, develops and updates standard operation procedures. Duties performed under general supervision.

NOTE: The salary offer for the position will not exceed the mid-point of the advertised salary range. An upward mobility program is available for the candidate(s) that is selected for this position.

Illustrative Duties

Level I
Performs all routine and non-routine tests or regulatory functions associated with
wastewater, air, stream, estuary, sediment, sludge, ash, leachate, groundwater, and toxic or controlled substances or discharges;
Routinely performs instrumental analysis, employing equipment such as the Flow
Injector Analyzer. Additional instrumentation utilized may
include; Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer, Gas Chromatograph, Inductively
Coupled Plasma Emission Spectrometer, Auto Analyzer II, Zero Head Space Extractor,
Closed Loop Stripping Apparatus, Specific Ion Meter, Oil and Grease Extractor and Isokinetic samplers;
Prepares concomitant statistics and quality control;
Participates in equipment maintenance, field work, method development, laboratory analysis, and write-up of results;

Level 2
Performs all analysis and testing procedures in the General Testing Laboratory, using

instrumentation software and associated parsers;

Analyzes samples including all bacteriological testing and characterization of filamentous bacteria;

Ensures that all testing is done within approved parameters;

Performs preventative maintenance and trouble shooting.

Level 3

Performs all advanced analysis and testing procedures within either the Metals OR

Organics Laboratory, using all instrumentation software and associated parsers;

Ensures that all testing is done within approved parameters;

Performs preventative maintenance and troubleshooting.

Required Knowledge Skills and Abilities

Level 1

Knowledge of the principles and techniques of analytical chemistry, biochemistry and microbiology;

Ability to perform associated analysis and record accurate conclusions;

Knowledge of applicable federal, state and county procedures and regulations;

Ability to identify violations;

Ability to train others;

Ability to work independently and make relevant independent judgments;

Ability to perform normal mathematical operations as well as some advanced algebra;

Ability to perform Level 1 analysis and record accurate conclusions.

Level 2

(Includes all from Level 1, plus below as listed)

Ability to perform all procedures/parameters in the General Laboratory, documented

through Demonstration of Capability procedure;

Ability to analyze samples including all bacteriological testing and characterization of

filamentous bacteria;

Ability to use all instrumentation software and associated parsers.

Level 3

(Includes all from Level 2, plus below as listed)

Ability to demonstrate capability for all procedures/parameters in either Metals or

Organics;

Ability to analyze samples for all methods/parameters within either Metals or Organics;

Ability to use all instrumentation software and parsers with either Metals or Organics.

Employment Standards

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Any combination of education, experience and training equivalent to graduation from an accredited four-year college or a university with a degree in chemistry, biology or related science; and one year of directly related experience.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Experience performing instrumental analysis in an environmental laboratory. Experience with laboratory instrumentation. Ability to evaluate and interpret data and prepare reports. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check
and medical examination to the satisfaction of the employer.

NOTE: Subject to working in adverse weather conditions and may be exposed to water pollutants, pathogens, airborne substances/hazards, fumes and/or noxious odors, toxic/caustic chemicals, dust and pollen.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
With or without reasonable accommodation. Physical requirements needed to perform essential duties include the ability to occasionally lift or carry in cooperation with another employee, equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.

SELECTION PROCEDURE:
Panel interview may include an exercise.

It is the policy of Fairfax County Government to prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, religion, age, veteran status, political affiliation, genetics, or disability in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-324-4900 for assistance. TTY 703-222-7314 . EEO/AA/TTY.