Microbiologist I

DIVISION: Operations

DEPARTMENT: Laboratory Services

UNION/ GRADE: Unit 9/Grade 18

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BASIC PURPOSE:

Performs a variety of moderately complex microbiological, biological, and chemical analyses using prescribed procedures on water, wastewater and air.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

Works under the general supervision of a Laboratory Supervisor.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED:

None.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Performs a wide range of moderately complex microbiological, biological, and chemical laboratory analyses and field tests and operates all related equipment, assuring adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Assists in studies and investigations by performing microbiological analyses and tests as directed.
• Provides technical direction to technicians and laboratory support personnel by reviewing and confirming the results of routine laboratory and field tests and providing instruction to assure conformity to SOPs.
• Performs set-up, maintenance, calibration and minor troubleshooting duties on a variety of standard instrumentation and oversees technicians in their performance of routine equipment maintenance duties.
• Maintains a current knowledge of new analytical procedures and equipment.
• Follows SOPs to maintain accurate, reliable data, and to effect the efficient transfer of the data in the LIMS system.
• Utilizes standard applications software and prepares accurate statistical and graphics displays, as instructed. May assist in the development or modification of software.
• Prepares detailed notes and assists with technical reports. May write assigned portions.
• Prepares purchase requisitions to reorder standard supplies and materials, and may lead or perform duties to take inventory of supplies and equipment parts.
• Provides instruction to technicians in laboratory safety, assures that safety procedures are followed and maintains clean and safe work areas.

SECONDARY DUTIES:

Performs related duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience:

• A four (4) college degree in microbiology, biology, chemistry or a related field; and
• At least (1) year of experience in microbiological/chemical analysis, quality control and statistical techniques; or
• Any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Necessary Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Thorough knowledge of state of the art modern microbiological/chemical laboratory methods, procedures, materials and equipment.
• Skill in the operation of the listed tools and equipment.
• Thorough knowledge and experience in proper sampling techniques and analytical procedures.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• A valid Class D Motor Vehicle Operators License.
• TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED: Laboratory equipment and instruments, telephone, personal computer including word processing and other software, copy and fax machines.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls and reach with hands and arms. The employee frequently is required to stand and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk, sit, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl.

The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move more than 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close, distance, color, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee occasionally works in outside weather conditions. The employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions. The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals.

The noise level in the work area is usually loud in field settings, and moderately quiet in a laboratory environment.

Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, disability, sex or gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, or veteran status.