Environmental Lab Technician

Overview

Olmsted County has earned the 2023 Best Places to Work – Southeast Minnesota designation.
Minimum Qualifications of Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in laboratory science, chemistry, biology, hydrology, environmental science, or related field.

OR

Associate’s degree from an accredited college in laboratory science, chemistry, biology, hydrology, environmental science or related field and two (2) years of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.

Regular and reliable attendance is a necessary component of job/position. Individuals required to use County vehicles and equipment must have a valid driver’s license and be free of any major traffic violations for the last three (3) years.

Must demonstrate initial capability for all fields of testing for which the laboratory is accredited within two (2) months by successfully analyzing quality control samples, blind samples or other demonstration as referenced in the method. On- going proficiency must be maintained and demonstrated for the laboratory annually by performing an acceptable proficiency test for each field of testing. Technicians are expected to consistently meet the quality control requirements of the method, the laboratory Standard Operating Procedures, and the MN Department of Health Accrediting body for:  Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program () for water and Analysis Laboratory.

Nature of Work
Under general supervision collects, processes, and analyzes environmental samples including water and radon; organizes and conducts laboratory operations; operates and maintains lab analytical equipment; organizes and manages environmental lab data and records; assists the department with environmental public health projects.

Examples of Work

Performs chemical and/or bacteriological analyses of water samples in a timely manner according to quality control procedures and plans.
Records analytical data and records of sampling techniques in a timely manner in the LIMS (Lab Information Management System), on client reports and in associated instrument software records.
Operates and maintains laboratory instrumentation such as spectrophotometer, conductivity meter, turbidity meter, ion chromatograph, atomic absorption, pH meter, auto sampler, micro-pipeter, vacuum pump, volumetric glassware, UV light meter, incubator, analytical balance, thermometer, computer, microscope, specialty label printers, and water purifier.
Prepares bacteriological media and chemical solutions.
Performs routine cleaning and maintenance on laboratory equipment and instrumentation.
Organizes, monitors inventory and places orders necessary to maintain lab supplies.
Provides daily consultation to the public regarding environmental monitoring and sample analysis results, and referral to additional educational and assistance resources.
Schedules, collects, and analyzes environmental samples.
Maintains required State for microbiological testing, chemical testing techniques, and instrumentation, and proficiency associated with the accredited fields of analysis in the lab.
Adheres to and promotes laboratory safety policies.
Supports the department during emergency situations.
Assists in the development of work plans and goals, grants, projects, and management requests.
Performs related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of lab analytical equipment, including computer interfaces, to conduct analysis of water samples in the field or lab.
Knowledge of lab operations.
Knowledge of lab, physical, chemical, and biological risks, and safety measures.
Knowledge of lab instrument and equipment maintenance.
Knowledge of lab procurement processes and policies
Skill in analyzing problems and developing efficient and effective solutions.
Skill in the use of computers, technology, and lab equipment.
Skill in technical customer service principles and practices.
Ability to identify and address environmental conditions apt to effect integrity or quality of samples.
Ability to identify and solve problems in the maintenance, development, implementation and quality assurance or analytical equipment and procedures.
Ability to develop and follow complex written and oral instructions.
Ability to make legible handwritten entries on labels and laboratory records.
Ability to interpret maps and quality assurance manuals.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.

Persons with disabilities: the above is a general listing of job duties. Essential and non-essential functions may vary by individual position. Reasonable accommodations may be available for both essential and non-essential job duties.