Reports to: Water Plant Supervisor Department: Public Works Updated: November 13, 2024

Water Plant Chemist

Job Code:
FLSA Status: Exempt
EEOC Class: Professionals

Job Summary
The Water Plant Chemist performs chemical and biological analyses to ensure water quality and compliance with regulations. Responsibilities include water sampling, lab testing, maintaining quality control, preparing reports, and addressing customer inquiries. This role supports the overall operations of the Water Treatment Plant by ensuring safe and effective water treatment.
Essential Job Responsibilities
• Collect samples at various stages of water treatment, including source, process, finished, stored water, distribution systems, and waste discharge.
• Conduct water analysis including wet chemistry, biological monitoring, and instrumental analyses for organic, inorganic, and trace elements with minimal supervision.
• Maintain detailed laboratory quality control records in accordance with state and federal regulations.
• Conduct quality control checks on water treatment processes, including chemical analyses of fluoride, lime, carbon, and other substances used in water treatment.
• Ensure compliance with established quality control procedures and recordkeeping protocols.
• Prepare chemical reagents necessary for water testing and treatment.
• Monitor inventory levels of chemicals and laboratory supplies, ensuring adequate stock for operations.
• Monitor and ensure compliance with NPDES Discharge Permits for both the Water Plant and Wastewater Plant.
• Maintain daily records of chemical usage, entering data into the appropriate software systems, and preparing weekly and monthly reports on water quality and chemical consumption.
• Prepare and submit monthly compliance reports to state and federal regulatory authorities, ensuring all water treatment activities meet legal standards.
• Notify supervisors of any noncompliance or issues impacting water treatment processes.
• Investigate and resolve customer complaints related to water quality, performing specialized water analyses as needed.
• Handle customer inquiries regarding water quality and treatment processes, providing clear and accurate information.
• Follow laboratory safety procedures and protocols to ensure a safe working environment.
• Stay current with all district policies and procedures related to water treatment and laboratory work.
• Work closely with water treatment operators, supervisors, and biologists to ensure efficient water treatment and compliance with regulations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience
• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Environmental Science, or a related field required.
• Experience in water treatment analysis and laboratory procedures preferred.
• Knowledge of water quality regulations and laboratory safety protocols preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Must be able to lift and handle lab equipment and materials up to 50 pounds.

Certifications and Licenses
• Must possess a valid driver’s license at the time of hire.
• Must have a Water Operator License Grade 4 or higher or be able to obtain one within 6 months of hire.
Work Environment
• Work is performed in a water treatment plant with some exposure to dust, dirt, heat, fumes, contaminants, cold, noise, wetness, and other elements. Work may also need to be performed in confined spaces or at heights exceeding six feet.
• Work hours will vary and may include nights, weekends, and irregular hours in response to crises or urgent situations.
• All necessary office equipment is provided.
Travel
• Less than 10% travel is required.

Physical Requirements

Physical Activity Rarely Occasionally Frequently Constantly
0% - 25%
of time (0-2 hours per day) 26% - 50% of
time (2-4 hours per day) 51% - 75% of time
(4-6 hours per day) 76% - 100% of
time (6-8 hours per day)
Carrying ≥ 20 lbs. X
Climbing X
Driving X
Finger Dexterity X
Hearing X
Kneeling X
Lifting ≥ 20 lbs. X
Pulling ≥ 20 lbs. X
Pushing ≥ 20 lbs. X
Reaching X
Seeing X
Sitting X
Standing X
Twisting X
Typing X
Walking X

Disclaimer
The above statements are not intended to be an all-inclusive list of the duties and responsibilities of the job described. Rather, they are intended to describe the general nature of the job. The City of Blair reserves the right to revise or change job duties and responsibilities as the need arises. This job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

City of Blair, NE

New Jobs

Water Treatment Plant Chemist