Environmental Lab Scientist I
- Summary
JOB DESCRIPTION: This position performs environmental sampling using a variety of instrumentation and methods to collect and characterize water, wastewater, sediment, fish, algae, soil, biosolids, and other matrices. This is an entry-level classification. This position requires field work in all types of weather conditions and terrain, prepping field sampling kits, maintaining and cleaning scientific instrumentation, operating motor vehicles or small boats, sample collection at wastewater treatment plants, sampling from boats, and performing deck-hand duties on lakes, rivers and Puget Sound. Individuals selected for these positions should expect to be in the field the majority of the work week.
WHO MAY APPLY: This is a recruitment is open only to employees at the King County Environmental Laboratory.
King County and The Water and Land Resource Division values diverse perspectives and life experiences and encourage people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, and veterans.
REQUIRED MATERIALS TO APPLY: Applications without the following required materials may not be considered for this position.- King County application
- Resume
- Cover Letter
- answers to the supplemental question
- Job Duties
PRIMARY JOB FUNCTIONS:
- Conduct water quality field sampling, independently or with senior staff
- Collect field measurements utilizing a variety of sampling technologies and equipment
- Operate vehicles; trailer and operate small boats
- Collect and record field data and documentation, enter data into LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) database, perform data review
- Calibrate field and laboratory instruments
- Install, operate, maintain, clean, calibrate, troubleshoot and repair ISCO sampling equipment
- Work collaboratively with lab staff and other government and regulatory agencies or departments within the County to address Environmental Laboratory policies and issues
- Review and edit SAPs and QAPPs to ensure the Field Science Unit's ability to meet project requirements
- Follow safety requirements and guidelines and recognize (and correct if needed) potential safety hazards
- Write and review standard operating procedures (SOPS) for field sampling procedures
- Understand and implement appropriate QC (quality control) practices in the field and lab
- Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- A Bachelor's Degree in biology, marine science or biology, oceanography, chemistry, environmental science or 4 years equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, and abilities
- Experience collecting environmental samples
- Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and maintain scientific field instrumentation
- Demonstrated communication skills (oral and written, including report writing)
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work cooperatively with a variety of personalities
- Understanding the principles of environmental science as related to the collection and analysis of environmental samples
- Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Word and Excel.
- Knowledge and understanding of potential hazards in the field and lab; use of appropriate PPE
- Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
- Ability to work in all types of weather, challenging terrain, in potentially hazardous environments such as wastewater conveyance pipes and wastewater facilities
- Supplemental Information
LICENSING/CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
- Washington State Driver's License
- Some licenses, certifications and other requirements determined to be necessary to meet the business needs of the employing unit may be required.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:- Able-Bodied Seaman License, WA State Boater's Course, US Power Squadron or equivalent
WORK LOCATION: Environmental Laboratory, 322 W. Ewing, Seattle, WA 98119-1597
WORK SCHEDULE: This full-time position is overtime eligible. This position is based on a 40-hour workweek. The typical work schedule is 6:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday - Thursday. Periodic extended hours and occasional weekend or night-time work is a requirement of this position.
QUESTIONS regarding this announcement:
michelle.kobuki@kingcounty.gov
(206) 477-4740
UNION MEMBERSHIP: This position is not represented.
Supplemental Question: A supplemental question must be completed and submitted with your application. The question address important elements of this position. The information you provide will help to determine your eligibility for further consideration. Limit your response to no more than one-half page.
King County offers a highly-competitive compensation and benefits package designed to meet the diverse needs of our employees and support our employees' health and well-being. Eligible positions receive the following benefits and have access to the following programs:
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage: King County pays 100% of the premiums for eligible employees and family members
- Life and disability insurance: employees are provided basic coverage and given the opportunity to purchase additional insurance for both the employee and eligible dependents
- Retirement: King County employees are eligible to participate in a pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems and a 457(b) deferred-compensation plan
- Transportation program and ORCA transit pass
- 10 paid holidays each year (plus 2 personal holidays)
- Generous vacation and paid sick leave
- Paid parental leave, family and medical leaves, and volunteer leave
- Flexible Spending Account
- Wellness programs
- Onsite gyms and activity centers
- Employee giving program
- Employee assistance programs
- Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position
- Training and career development programs
This is a general description of the benefits offered to eligible King County employees, and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. If any information on this document conflicts with the provisions of a collective bargaining agreement (CBA), the CBA prevails. Also, in the event of any incorrect information in this document, applicable laws, policies, rules, CBAs, or official plan documents will prevail.
NOTE: Benefits for Term Limited Temporary (TLT) or Short Term Temporary (STT) positions, including leave eligibility and/or participation in the pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems, will vary based upon the terms and details of the position. Short Term Temporary positions are not eligible for an ORCA transit pass.
For inquiries about the specifics of this position, please contact the recruiter identified on this job posting.
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01Describe your experience conducting environmental sampling. Be specific.
Required Question