<p>Under direction, serves as lead to the water quality laboratory staff, overseeing the day-to-day operation, as well as performing advanced, focused water testing studies and methods.</p> <p>Positions in this class are flexibly linked to the Water Quality Analyst position and are normally filled by advancement, when filled from the outside, require previous and directly related experience.</p> <p>(Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following tasks, knowledge, skills and other characteristics. The list of tasks is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY, and is not a comprehensive listing of all function and tasks performed by positions in this class.)</p> <p>Leads, oversees, and performs the work of the day-to-day operation of the water quality laboratory and sampling programs. Works with Water Quality Supervisor to ensure a safe working environment and promotes a culture of safety.</p> <p>Leads, oversees and performs complex assessments of chemical and biological data and metadata to predict impacts to watershed; raw, treated and finished water quality; residuals and wastewater.</p> <p>Assembles, organizes, and communicates statistical and factual information in written and oral form.</p> <p>Conducts microbiological and chemical analyses of raw and treated water. Provides technical services and assistance for water treatment plant optimization, samples raw and treated water for testing purposes.</p> <p>Compiles and enters technical data in database. Produces results using spreadsheets and graphs; interprets data and provides analysis in report form.</p> <p>Develops and revises water quality analytical and testing methods. Reviews, revises, and develops Standard Operating Procedures. Interprets biological and chemical data and performs related calculations.</p> <p>Provides coverage in the laboratory or field in the absence of other laboratory staff. Maintains proficiency in all water quality laboratory program functions. Provides training for new laboratory personnel and provides new sampling and testing method training for current laboratory staff.</p> <p>Monitors test results and investigates discrepancies and anomalies in the data. Maintains detailed records and prepares various technical reports, including Safe Drinking Water Act compliance reports. Prepares draft of annual Water Quality Consumer Confidence Report.</p> <p>Monitors laboratory sampling and testing program to ensure laboratory quality control is being implemented in accordance with state-certified drinking water laboratory standards. Performs internal quality assurance audits and responds to state audits.</p> <p>Coordinates laboratory staff to address customer water quality complaints. Generates complaint response letters and maintains computer complaint files. Delivers and promotes a culture of excellent customer service, both internally and externally.</p> <p>Assists with prioritizing, planning, scheduling and budgeting. Generates purchase requisitions, receipts invoices, and ensures laboratory supply purchases are within budget.</p> <p>Ensures laboratory equipment is being properly maintained, coordinates repair and replacement of laboratory equipment.</p> <p>Attends meetings and represents city interests regarding various environmental and drinking water programs as needed.</p> <p>Attends, engages, and presents at meetings, conferences and training sessions to keep current with changes in regulatory and industry protocols as assigned.</p> <p>Performs work that requires the use of specified respiratory equipment that guards against exposure to airborne hazards. Complies with all Municipal, State, and Federal physical requirements as per respiratory protection standards and Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) guidelines.</p> <p>Serves in an acting capacity for the Lab Supervisor during absences.</p> <p>May organize and conduct activities to promote teambuilding and/or workplace morale.</p> <p>May be work required to work overtime as needed.</p> <p>Performs other duties as assigned.</p> <p>Education/Experience:</p> <p>Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field from an accredited college or university; four years' progressively responsible experience in analytical microbiological or chemical laboratory work. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.</p> <p>Licensing/Certification Requirements:</p> <p>Valid Colorado driver's license with a safe driving record.</p> <p>Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:</p> <p>Knowledge of the policies, procedures and goals of the city of Thornton and the department.</p> <p>Knowledge of the principles and methods used in complex chemical, bacteriological and physical analyses of water and/or wastewater.</p> <p>Knowledge of general inorganic chemistry and microbiology concepts.</p> <p>Knowledge of proper water sampling techniques.</p> <p>Knowledge of the Colorado Primary Drinking Water Regulations.</p> <p>Knowledge of conventional water treatment methods, and familiarity with operation of distribution systems.</p> <p>Knowledge of federal and state regulations regarding drinking water quality, stream standards, and wastewater discharge permitting.</p> <p>Knowledge of hazards and safety precautions required in the laboratory and field.</p> <p>Skill in evaluating and using new analytical methods and techniques for operational improvement.</p> <p>Skill in developing recommendations for problem resolution through evaluating and analyzing information accurately and drawing logical conclusions.</p> <p>Skill in using initiative and independent judgment while recognizing the appropriate time to get help from supervisor or others.</p> <p>Ability to institute safe laboratory practices.</p> <p>Ability to interpret water quality data and other technical information when providing oral or written reports.</p> <p>Ability to manage projects and meet deadlines through setting priorities, coordinating employee work schedules, and efficient utilization of all available resources.</p> <p>Ability to lead, direct and train employees.</p> <p>Ability to use standard office equipment, computer equipment and software including word processing, database management, spreadsheet applications and electronic mail.</p> <p>Ability to listen well and communicate effectively orally and in writing with various audiences.</p> <p>Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, the public, and other agencies.</p> <p>Ability to wear respiratory protective equipment including but not limited to SCBA gear.</p> <p>Physical and Mental Requirements:</p> <p>While performing the essential duties of this job, the employee is required to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, reach, stand, walk, push, pull, lift, finger, grasp, feel, talk, hear and make repetitive motions. This position is mostly light work; exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. The employee is required to have close visual acuity. The employee is subject to both inside and outside conditions, extreme cold, noise, hazards, and atmospheric conditions that affect the respiratory system of the skin. The employee is required to comply with all physical requirements of SCBA and/or any other respiratory protection equipment including passing all medical and fit testing.</p> <p>Examinations may include but are not limited to application screening beyond minimum qualifications; written, oral, practical exercise or any combination thereof or other job related assessment deemed appropriate by Human Resources.</p> <p>Your application will be used as a screening tool. Completeness and accuracy are important! Any false or untrue statements or material omissions in the application and related paperwork or during the selection process could disqualify you from consideration.</p> <p>As a condition of employment, the city of Thornton conducts background investigations for all positions which may also include a review of credit report and/or driving record. A drug screen, physical, and/or psychological examination administered by a city-designated provider will be required for pre-determined positions.</p>