Environmental Lab Scientist I
- Summary
JOB DESCRIPTION: The King County Environmental Lab is a full service environmental laboratory supporting a range of King County wastewater treatment and environmental programs. (See http://www.kingcounty.gov/environment/data-and-trends/environmental-lab.aspx for more details.) This is an entry-level classification for conducting environmental laboratory analyses using a variety of complex analytical methods and advanced instrumentation to characterize environmental samples in the Microbiology unit. Under supervision, this position performs and interprets a variety of environmental laboratory analyses using Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater and accepted Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) methods. Environmental Laboratory Scientist I incumbents develop their skills and perform a variety of analyses with training and progressively decreasing oversight.
WHO MAY APPLY: This is open to the general public. In addition to filling this vacancy, this recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies.
King County values diverse perspectives, life experiences and differences. The Water and Land Resources Division encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, men, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, and veterans. We are committed to being equitable and fair in providing equal access to opportunities for all.
REQUIRED MATERIALS TO APPLY: Applications without the following required materials may not be considered for this position.
- King County application (applying online satisfies this requirement)
- Resume
- Cover Letter
- Response to supplemental questions (total 2 pages max)
- Job Duties
- Using Standard Methods and EPA procedures: prepare, analyze, document, interpret and report microbiology sample analyses for Fecal Coliform, Total Coliform, E.coli, Enterococcus, heterotrophic bacteria, and Salmonella sp.
- Prepare media, reagents, standard solutions, laboratory equipment, and environmental samples for all types of analyses.
- Perform instrument calibration, routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting of laboratory equipment.
- Assist in the development and implementation of new methods.
- Utilize computer software to perform calculations on results of laboratory tests.
- Utilize Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to track sample analysis, report and store analytical and QC data.
- Perform QA/QC activities to ensure that tests are in control and that quality of the data meets project needs. Evaluate quality control results, identify deficiencies and take corrective actions (write data anomaly reports and notify supervisor when lab errors occur).
- Incorporate certification and other regulatory requirements and amendments into laboratory services with assistance. Write and review standard operating procedures.
- Serve as a technical coordinator for work projects. Review and provide feedback on project documentation such as sampling and analysis plans (SAPs) and quality assurance project plans (QAPP's). Produce sample reports for customers including data interpretation in narrative form.
- Proactively participate as a member of the Microbiology team. Keep co-workers informed on project status, problems with samples, instrumentation, etc.
- Constructively participate in group problem solving and decision making.
- Represent the Microbiology team on committees such as the safety and LIMS committees.
- Order routine laboratory supplies. Receive supplies and document appropriate paperwork.
- Continue education and training in environmental microbiology and laboratory instrumentation and science, stay current on regulations and literature.
- Follow safety requirements and guidelines and recognize and correct potential safety hazards.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
- Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills
• A Bachelor's Degree in Microbiology or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum one year environmental microbiology lab experience.
• Knowledge and understanding of Federal, Washington State and local environmental, health and safety regulations.
• Knowledge and understanding of EPA, Standard Methods and other approved microbiology protocols.
• Demonstrated skill in operating, maintaining and troubleshooting general lab equipment (motorized micro pipettes, balances, ovens, incubators, biological safety cabinets, and homogenization equipment) and moderately complex automated instrumentation (real-time PCR, thermocyclers, spectrophotometers).
• Knowledge and understanding of relevant principles in microbiology, mathematics
and statistics.
• Demonstrated proficiency using computer applications including LIMS, Word, Excel, and vendor specialized software.
• Must have knowledge and understanding of basic laboratory equipment and safety procedures.
• Ability to communicate effectively in terms of producing standard operating procedures; producing sample reports for customers (including data interpretation in narrative form); and participating in team and committee efforts in problem solving and decision making. This position also requires the ability to present project status updates and represent the unit in committees.
• Demonstrated ability to work successfully under supervision and independently within a team environment.
• Ability to perform all of the primary job functions, including the special requirements set forth below.- Supplemental Information
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Experience in sample preparation methodologies for membrane filtration and MPN (Most Probable Number).
- Experience in identifying environmental microorganisms using classic microbiological tests and or automated ID systems.
- Experience in microorganism identification using molecular biology methods.
- Experience preparing microbiological medias and reagents.
- Experience working in a clean room environment.
- Excellent aseptic technique.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENT(S):
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Requires precision and coordination of hands and limbs to operate and use delicate laboratory equipment and glassware with accuracy. There is frequent prolonged standing, and occasional to regular lifting of up to 40 pounds, raising and holding heavy bottles above the head, and manipulation of large, bulky materials. Most positions require repetitive motion of hands and wrists; some require some kneeling or stooping.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: Heavy workload, deadline pressure and interruptions due to changing priorities and malfunctioning equipment are not uncommon. Work is performed in a laboratory environment, with the potential for exposure to noxious fumes, harmful chemicals, biohazards, and high-volume or high frequency noise, and risk of exposure to high voltage electricity, harmful chemicals, very hot or cold materials, potential explosives, pressurized gas and sharp objects. Exposure Risks of exposure are minimized by adherence to appropriate laboratory safety practices and wearing proper personal protective equipment.
Supplemental Questions:
Answers to the questions must be completed and submitted with the application. The questions address important elements of this position and the information you provide will help to determine your eligibility for further consideration. You will be evaluated on the clarity of your response and the level and extent of knowledge. Please limit your response to a total of 2 pages max
Contact for questions related to this recruitment:
Michelle Kobuki, Human Resources
michelle.kobuki@kingcounty.gov
206-477-4740
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 background in environmental microbiology, including details of any specialized knowledge and practical experience you have performing microbial indicators or pathogen analyses following EPA or other standard procedures.02Describe your experience isolating and identifying specific microorganisms (bacteria, viruses and parasites) from environmental samples.03Describe a real situation where you were in conflict about data interpretation or data quality with a peer or boss. What was the nature of the conflict? What steps did you take to resolve the issue? Were you satisfied with the outcome? Were the other parties satisfied with the outcome?04Were you to be selected for this position, you will be working with a highly accomplished unit with very high standards. Describe your ability to work in this type of environment and any applicable knowledge and skills you possess that will help you be a contributor.
Required Question