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Class Concept:
This is beginning to journey level technical support work in a chemistry laboratory, field operation or university hazardous material facility performing a number of routine tasks and duties including the responsibility for a complete small technical function or project. Employees perform continuing individual assignments with set deadlines, priorities and quality and quantity of work expected, and normally with a very limited use and application of chemical theory to evaluate and interpret results. Work includes operating and calibrating a number of laboratory instruments and equipment which requires moderate adjustments during operation; making minor repairs to the less complex laboratory equipment and instruments; performing a range of routine and standardized wet or instrumental methods and procedures of moderate complexity; and preparing samples, reagents, standard solutions and quality control test samples along with washing glassware and cleaning laboratories a portion of their time. Methods, procedures and tests performed include a combination of titration, gravimetric, volumetric, colorimetric, IR, UV and visible spectroscopy and other prescribed methods and tests such as use of robotic instruments to measure pH, simple extractions, viscosity and other physical procedures. Samples used are often in moderate or somewhat difficult to work with concentrations. At hazardous material facilities, employees determine the appropriate segregation, storage, treatment, packaging and disposal of hazardous waste. Work may also include instructing or training other laboratory employees in methods, procedures and techniques on a limited basis. Employees have most of their work reviewed for technical accuracy, methods used and compliance with instructions and established procedures. They may choose guides and references from a variety of standard procedure, methodology and instrument manuals, and may on occasion make very limited deviations, modifications or extensions to these procedures. Employees may assist a chemist on the more complex methods but would not be responsible for conducting and interpreting the results of these procedures themselves. Work may include other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Recruitment Standards
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Working knowledge of the basic principles, concepts, theories and reference sources used in the laboratory application of chemistry and other related physical sciences.
- Working knowledge of scientific methodology and of the hazards involved in laboratory procedures along with related safety practices.
- Working knowledge of the rules, regulations and guidelines governing the transport, packaging and disposal of hazardous materials.
- Ability to independently perform and record standardized and moderately complex laboratory tests and procedures.
- Ability to express technical information clearly, both orally and in writing, when reporting results and explaining procedures to others.
- Ability to perform mathematical calculations, understand and follow oral and written technical instructions, to perceive colors normally and to make olfactory distinctions, and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
Minimum Education and Experience
Associate's degree in one of the chemical, biological, microbiological, environmental or natural resource sciences or a closely related curriculum including related chemistry laboratory coursework from an appropriately accredited institution; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.