SUMMARY
Oversee chemical, bacteriological, and operational testing to achieve and maintain accreditation compliance in accordance with Chapter 252, and other applicable federal, state and local regulations. Supervise Laboratory and assist Operations to determine the most efficient and economical dosage of chemicals to provide safe, high quality water in remaining compliant with Chapter 109, through supervision, training, and reporting as required by governing agencies.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Personnel/Management
a. Supervise Laboratory personnel and provide assistance as needed for Operations Department.
b. Perform Water Quality Manager functions and duties when Water Quality Manager is unavailable.
c. Process Laboratory invoices and requisitions in appropriate Erie Water Works system.
d. Assist with Laboratory budget process.
e. Approve, manage, and enter Laboratory personnel’s payroll, time, and attendance with Erie Water Works payroll system.
f. Provide performance feedback in coordination with the Water Quality Manager.
Regulatory/Safety/Training
a. Maintain Laboratory records & calibration records in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations (i.e., Chapter 252 and Chapter 109, etc.).
b. Assist in completing the Consumer Confidence Report data and other federal, state, and local reports when required.
c. Review daily entry logs and enter data for Safe Drinking Water Act reports.
d. Manage compliance testing/sampling schedule & coordinate with contracted laboratories.
e. Assist Water Quality Manager in training for appropriate Laboratory, Operations and other personnel on new and amended regulations and laboratory equipment.
f. Follow and enforce all policies and safety regulations as required by Erie Water Works.
g. Verify all required laboratory testing and sampling is completed when required by all local, state, and federal regulations.
Administration/Materials
a. Complete requisitions for Laboratory supplies and monitor inventory worksheets as filled out by Laboratory and Operations as approved by Water Quality Manager.
b. Monitor and manage Laboratory operational software, such as Water Information Management System (WIMS).
Miscellaneous
a. Answer customer complaints concerning water quality and supply reports when applicable.
b. Perform other similar and related duties assigned.
Supervisory Responsibilities: 4 Direct Reports
Qualifications:
Education:
· Associate’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Sciences, or a related field required; and
o Minimum of 16 credits in Chemistry and 4 credits in Biology or able to complete this requirement in two years; or
o Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP) Class A State Certification with Subclass 15 preferred.
· Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience in similar roles.
Experience:
· Minimum 3 years of progressive experience in a PA DEP accredited laboratory.
· Experience in the water industry, utilities, or environmental laboratory setting is highly desirable.
Certifications/Licensures/Designations:
· Must obtain PA DEP Laboratory Supervisor designation within two years.
Skills:
Strong understanding of federal, state, and local laws and regulations and ability to interpret, plan, and implement for upcoming changes; Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive water quality initiatives; Excellent communication, training, and facilitation skills; Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; Proficient in Microsoft Office; Experience with WIMS software systems preferred; Working knowledge of lab equipment such as photoelectric and potentiometric instruments, analytical balance, microscope, and spectrophotometer.
Special Requirements:
· Driving/Valid driver’s license required? ☒ Yes ☐ No CDL ☐ A ☐ B ☒ C ☐ None
· Ability to travel? ☒ Yes ☐ No
· Ability to respond to emergency and call-out situations, as needed. ☒ Yes ☐ No
Physical, Mental, and Work Environment Demands:
The physical, mental, and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Physical Demands:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands for fine and gross motor skills; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee is occasionally required to sit, climb, enter and/or work in confined spaces, utilize self-contained breathing apparatus, and balance. The employee must regularly lift up to 50 pounds. Attention to detail specifically with visual and auditory components.
Mental Demands:
Verbal/written communication skills
Must have the ability to communicate information and ideas effectively with internal and external stakeholders to include Erie Water Works management, customers, contractors, and other utilities. Must maintain a positive image within the community.
Reasoning/Problem Solving:
Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Must be able to interpret a variety of technical instructions, and deal with several abstract and concrete variables. Use logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Work Environment:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be exposed to various weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and wind, requiring appropriate attire and adaptability to changing elements. The role involves navigating uneven terrain, including dirt, gravel, and concrete surfaces, which may pose challenges such as mud, debris, or obstructions.
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Dependent health insurance coverage
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person