WASTEWATER CHEMIST

Salary: $76,446.00 - $89,749.00

This is Supervisory and Technical work of a difficult and responsible nature in the supervision of and performance of specialized complex chemical, bacteriological, and physical tests of raw, partially treated, and treated wastewater ad by products concerning the facilities process control operation.  Works under the Facility Process Superintendent.  The Water Pollution Control Facility operates on a 7 day basis.  Employee should be available when an emergency exists.

• Assigns work to laboratory staff and reviews work for accuracy.
• Trains laboratory and operations personnel in proper sampling and testing techniques.
• Recommends process control changes and optimizations to plant Superintendent.
• Analyzes samples of wastewater from various sources and plant.
• Establishes guidelines and monitors laboratory procedures to conform with Connecticut DEP requirements and safety requirements.
• Maintains automatic analyzing instruments.
• Prepares monthly NPDES and other reports as required.
• Performs microbiological tests.
• Develops QA/QC procedures.
• Meets with inspectors and personnel to discuss laboratory procedures.
• Performs special studies as necessary, such as surfactant tests, reaction rates and biodegradability tests.
• Performs various chemical and bacteriological tests.
• Speaks with the public when necessary, and conducts tours.
• Enter data in to computer.
• Recommends the purchase of laboratory equipment.
• Responsible for handling the facilities safety program to keep in compliance with OSHA and all other applicable regulatory agencies.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Thorough knowledge of microbiology, as it relates to sewage.
• Thorough knowledge of automatic analyzers.
• Good knowledge of the various test equipment.
• Ability to supervise subordinates.
• Ability to prepare reports and schedules.
• Ability to constantly evaluate the cost benefits of conducting lab work on site versus having it done on the outside.
• Ability to investigate the certification of Fairfield’s Laboratory.
• Handles nitrogen removal data analysis, reporting, and optimization for the State of Connecticut D.E.P. Nitrogen Credit Exchange Program.
• Thorough understanding of the use of SCADA systems and PLCs.
• Thorough knowledge and understanding of 40 CFR 136 - GUIDELINES ESTABLISHING TEST PROCEDURES FOR THE ANALYSIS OF POLLUTANTS.
• Thorough understanding of EPA 503 bio-solids.
• Solid understanding of data interpretation, including MDLs, RLs, and laboratory methodologies.
• Experience with LIM, WIMS, Operator10 or equivalent.
• Experience in conducting annual EPA DMR-QA studies and reporting.

 
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• A candidate for this position should have a minimum of an Associates Degree in Chemistry, Environmental Science, or Microbiology and analytical technology.  
• Candidate should have a minimum of 5 years’ experience of professional experience of laboratory testing at a waste water treatment or equivalent experience.  
• Must obtain a Class II Wastewater Operators Certificate from the State of Connecticut D.E.P. within 2 years of hire, and must obtain a Class III within 4 years from start of employment.
• Must possess a valid Connecticut Driver’s License.
• Will be required to obtain any future certification that the State of Connecticut D.E.P. imposes on facilities in the allotted time specified by the agency.  

SCHEDULE

• Monday – Friday, 40 hours/week from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

PAY RANGE

• $76,446 – $89,749/year (THEA 10)

AFFILIATION

• Member of THEA Collective Bargaining Unit

THE TOWN OF FAIRFIELD IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
It is the policy of the Town of Fairfield to ensure equal employment opportunity for all employees and to prohibit unlawful discrimination because of race, color, religion, creed, age, marital status, national origin, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation or physical and mental disability.