Current Job Openings >> Associate Microbiologist, or Microbiologist
Associate Microbiologist, or Microbiologist
Summary
Title:Associate Microbiologist, or Microbiologist
ID:2019-WQ-01
Salary Range:$30.18 - $46.80 DOE
Application Deadline:01/24/2019
Position Status:Full-Time
Requested Position Title:N/A
Department Name:N/A
Number of Vacancies:N/A
Description

ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION
Truckee Meadows Water Authority (TMWA) is a not-for-profit, community-owned water utility, overseen by elected officials and citizen appointees from Reno, Sparks and Washoe County. TMWA has a highly skilled workforce who ensure the around-the-clock treatment, delivery and availability of high-quality drinking water for more than 385,000 residents of the Truckee Meadows.

ABOUT THE POSITION
The Associate Microbiologist is responsible for conducting microbiological analyses of raw and treated drinking water to ensure a potable supply that meets all regulatory requirements for the customer. The incumbent assists in performing research and provides input on new and improved microbiological methodology and laboratory testing on new concepts that could improve water quality, monitoring capability and/or reduce departmental expense; performs complex microbiological analyses using advanced techniques; uses state-of-the-art microscopy; and receives and resolves simple and complex customer complaints and requests.

Salary Range: $30.1880 -$36.98 DOE

The Microbiologist is responsible for ensuring the requirements of an EPA/State certified water quality laboratory in Microbiology are met and for conducting microbiological analyses of raw and treated drinking water to ensure a potable supply that meets all regulatory requirements, for the consumer. Performs research and provides input on new and improved microbiological methodology and laboratory testing of new concepts that could improve water quality, monitoring capability and/or reduce departmental expense. Performs complex microbiological analyses using advanced techniques and state-of-the-art microscopy. Receives and resolves simple and complex customer complaints and requests. Handles loss of pressure events in compliance with regulatory standards.

Salary Range: $77,883 - $97,353.

Progression from one position title, level or designation is not automatic nor guaranteed and is based on business need.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Conduct simple and complex water quality analyses (bacteriological and protozoological) and water sampling a timely manner using EPA approved methodology and acceptable quality assurance procedures which assure all applicable microbiological certification requirements are met for both drinking water and pollution control samples.
  • Ascends and descends water distribution storage tanks, and enters into underground vaults to collect samples.
  • Perform complex microbiological analyses using advanced techniques and state of the art microscopy.
  • Perform research on new and improved microbiological methodology and laboratory test new concepts that could improve water quality, monitoring capability and/or reduce operating expense.
  • Maintain the microbiology laboratory certifications with the EPA/State by assuring that all applicable certification requirements are met for all microbiology laboratory operations.
  • Complete Proficiency Testing for water supply and wastewater laboratory certification.
  • Complete laboratory O&M manuals, SOP’s, microbiological certification programs, and general and special report writing and presentations. Troubleshoot water quality contamination problems, expeditiously, using sound scientific judgment.
  • Participate in the departments training programs relative to laboratory microbiological methods, procedures and scientific problem solving. Supply scientific guidance to laboratory staff.
  • Work closely with all water quality staff in performing routine microbiological and chemical sampling and analyses.
  • Follow approved laboratory safety policies set forth in chemical hygiene plan, OSHA regulations and other applicable sources of information. Participate in problem solving and safety audit programs.
  • Handle customer complaints in a professional manner assuring both customers health and satisfaction.
  • Participate in the Water Quality staff’s “on-call” rotation which requires 24-hour availability to handle all water quality issues.
  • Assist in the training of new Water Quality Department staff.
  • Handle and maintain all permanent environmental permits.
  • Collect samples from distribution mains, tanks, pump stations and other facilities as necessary for compliance.
  • Coordinate/participate in projects with other groups within the company.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Experience

One to five years experience in a microbiology laboratory completing water quality analyses and laboratory duties.

Other combinations of education/experience may be considered.

Training & Education

A minimum of an Associate of Arts in Biology or Microbiology along with comprehensive knowledge of bacteriology and protozoology. For the Microbiologist level position, a Bachelors degree in Biology or Microbiology along with comprehensive knowledge of bacteriology and protozoology is required.

Must have working-level knowledge of the English language, including reading, writing and speaking English.

Conditions of Continued Employment

State of Nevada Grade II Water Distribution Certification or Water Treatment Operator Certification, is required and must be obtained within a predetermined period of time.

A valid driver’s license and the ability to meet TMWA Dept. of Motor Vehicle report criteria.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of:

  • Comprehensive knowledge of microbiology (bacteriological and protozoological), chemistry, and advanced drinking water laboratory operations.
  • Broad knowledge of basic hydraulics, hydrology, drinking water treatment systems and principles, with a good knowledge of the entire drinking water distribution system.
  • Communication skills for preparing and presenting highly technical reports.
  • Experience in the operation of a water quality laboratory, the equipment, and the analysis for both routine and complex water quality parameters.
  • Computer literacy in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
  • Environmental regulations, statutes, ordinances and policies.
  • Modern office procedures with ability to use databases and phones.

Skill/Ability to:

  • Use of a variety of water quality test equipment and instruments to perform analytical analyses needed for statistical valid results
  • Care of standard laboratory equipment
  • Effectively manage time and handle multiple simultaneous projects and project tasks.
  • Prepare technical reports
  • Respond to requests and inquiries from customers and TMWA staff
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work
  • Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
  • Be proficient in Microsoft Office Software including Word and Excel
  • Perform simple to complex laboratory tasks to ensure compliance with water quality and environmental regulations
  • Read and interpret data and regulations applying to water quality
  • Use a variety of water quality test equipment and instruments
  • Interact with customers, field crew members, operations and maintenance staff on issues regarding water quality and treatment
  • Represent and present utility policy, goals, and values to customers and outside agencies
  • Maintain accurate records
  • Be punctual regarding work hours established by TMWA
  • Be mentally and physically alert during working hours

TMWA is an equal employment opportunity employer who develops and maintains a work environment that values the dignity of each individual, utilizes human resources to their fullest potential and ensures a high quality workforce which reflects the diversity of the community. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin.

All decisions affecting any terms and conditions of employment, including recruitment, hiring, assignment, training, compensation, promotion, salary, disciplinary action and an employee’s caregiving responsibilities, will be made without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, political affiliation, marital status, membership in an employee association, or any other protected status or category.

 

This opening is closed and is no longer accepting applications