Job Description
Under the supervision of the Laboratory Manager, provide chemical and mathematical principles and practices to tests. Evaluate and analyze data along with a variety of substances and materials in the field and in the laboratory.
RESPONSIBILITIES • Collects chemical and microbiological samples throughout the treatment and distribution systems (using DEP and EPA specified sampling protocols)
• Performs limited chemical and instrumental analyses of a variety of substances and materials both in the field and in the laboratory
• Recommend and improve formulas, processes, and analytical methods
• Evaluate the chemical and mathematical principles and practices in the preparation and standardization of tests and in making necessary calculations
• Maintains routine and complex records and prepare technical correspondence on work performed in the laboratory both manually and by automated methods
• Support special research projects (e.g., Giardia, Legionella, and PFAS research, etc.) as assigned
• Evaluate and ensure compliance with laboratory procedures and standards
• Visit field sites to test materials and standardize remote metals
• May assist bacteriologists in performing microbiological analyses
• May perform activities and work of related lower-level personnel
• Perform other tasks as assigned or required
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES • Considerable knowledge of chemistry, mathematics, biology, and other related subjects
• Knowledge of the hazards and safety precautions of the work; and of laboratory principles, practices, procedures, and equipment
• Knowledge of microbiology and microbiological methods
• Ability to handle potentially dangerous chemicals, pathogenic organisms
• Follow moderate to complex oral and written instructions and to make independent judgments
• Maintain records and prepare accurate reports either manually or by automated methods
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel)
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, management, associates, and the general public
EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS The following requirements list the minimum education/training/experience required to qualify for this job. An equivalent combination of education and/or experience may be accepted.
• Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry or a related field
• One (1) year professional analytical laboratory experience and/or equivalent combination of education and experience.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS Applicant must present a current, valid Class C (Class 1) Motor Vehicle Operator's License at the time of application or prior to appointment. A valid driver's license must be maintained throughout employment.
Applicant must have permanent residency in Allegheny County at time of appointment and remain a permanent resident throughout employment with the Pittsburgh Water.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED / RECEIVED No direct reports / Will receive supervision directly from the Laboratory Manager.
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 functions.
The physical demands consist of walking, climbing stairs, finger movements including fine dexterity and coordination, hearing conversation, seeing near and far, and speaking clearly. Frequently bending, stooping, repetitive leg and arm movements, lifting up to 50 lbs.
CONDITIONS While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to a moderate or quiet noise level in the office work environment. May perform work outdoors under extreme weather. The employee may be exposed to confined, high spaces, like erect scaffolding; loud conditions with vibrations, traffic, mechanical, chemical, fire, and explosive risks; and odors, dusts, fumes, mists, poor ventilation, and gases which may require a respirator.
Availability to work all three shifts, as well as weekends, and holidays. Subject to remain on duty beyond normal hours or during emergency situations or other extensive periods. Subject to remain on duty beyond normal hours or during emergency situations or other extensive periods.
MEDICAL EXAMINATION Employment may be contingent upon the results of a post-offer (initial employment or promotion) physical examination performed by Pittsburgh Waters examining physician.
DRUG TESTING Employment may be contingent upon the results of a post-offer (initial employment or promotion) drug screening. Continued employment may be subject to drug, and alcohol testing conducted without advance notice and without individualized suspicion.
PRE-EMPLOYMENT BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION Ability to successfully pass a thorough investigation consisting of a criminal history check, verification of prior employment and performance, reference, and credentials checks, and in some cases credit history.
Applicants are subject to a System for Award Management (SAM) or any successor system search as maintained by the General Services Administration (GSA) to ensure compliance with federal procurement and non-procurement programs.
Applications: You may be considered for other available positions based on qualifications provided on your employment application. If you have questions regarding your application, please contact the Human Resources Department at:
Pittsburgh Water Human Resources Department 1200 Penn Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15222 [click to reveal phone number]412-255-8800[click to reveal email address] hr@pgh2o.com An Equal Opportunity Employer: Pittsburgh Water is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on any legally protected statuses, including, but not limited to race, color, ancestry, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital or family status, disability, gender, gender identity or expression, pregnancy status, or veteran status. Pittsburgh Water is committed to providing candidates with reasonable accommodations for those with disabilities during our recruiting process; if you need assistance, please contact us at [click to reveal email address] hr@pgh2o.com or
[click to reveal phone number]412-255-8800 . Position: Chemist I
Division: Water Quality
Salary: Rate: $25.20 (Probationary Rate) | $27.32 (Full Rate)
Union: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) District Council 84 Local 2719
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Application Deadline: Until Filled
Job Tags
Holiday work, Permanent employment, Full time, Local area, Remote job, Outdoor, Weekend work, All shifts,