CLASS TITLE: Water Chemist II - Microbiology (Class 5241) DEPARTMENT: Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO) REPORTS TO: Laboratory Supervisor FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt

JOB SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Laboratory Supervisor, performs complex chemical and microbiological analyses of water, wastewater, and related environmental samples in the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO) Laboratory. This position requires specialized knowledge in microbiology and adherence to strict regulatory compliance standards.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Performs a variety of complex chemical and microbiological tests on raw, treated, and distribution water samples, wastewater, sludge, and environmental samples in accordance with established Standard Methods and regulatory requirements (e.g., EPA, LADHH).
• Prepares, sterilizes, and maintains microbiological media, reagents, and cultures necessary for testing procedures.
• Operates, calibrates, and performs routine maintenance on sophisticated laboratory equipment, including but not limited to spectrophotometers, chromatographs, and automated microbiology systems.
• Documents test results accurately and maintains detailed records in compliance with Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) procedures and regulatory mandates.
• Monitors and maintains laboratory safety protocols, including the proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials.
• Participates in internal and external proficiency testing programs to ensure data quality and regulatory compliance.
• Troubleshoots analytical problems and implements corrective actions as necessary.
• Assists in the development and revision of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Performs related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Microbiology, Biology, Environmental Science, or a closely related field from an accredited college or university.
• Two (2) years of professional experience performing laboratory analysis, with at least one (1) year specifically in water/wastewater microbiology testing.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Thorough knowledge of principles and practices of analytical chemistry and microbiology as applied to water and wastewater analysis.
• Working knowledge of EPA regulations and Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater.
• Skill in operating and maintaining complex laboratory instrumentation.
• Ability to perform detailed calculations and maintain accurate records.
• Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment in analytical procedures.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

LICENSE/CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

• Must possess a valid driver’s license at time of appointment and maintain same throughout employment.
• Certification as a Water Treatment Plant Operator or Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator (Grades I, II, or III) issued by the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ) is highly desirable.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to stand, walk, lift up to 25 pounds, and work in a laboratory environment that may involve exposure to chemicals and biological agents under appropriate safety controls.

Insurance policy is also available for all full-time employees.

Have student loan debt?

• The City of New Orleans is a qualified employer under the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).

Are you part of the FIRE (Financially Independent/Retire Early) movement? Don't want to work forever? We have options to help.

• Pension, Pension, Pension! Depending on your job you can participate in one of several pension systems and enjoy this great benefit.
• You can also participate in a Deferred Compensation Plan (457b) which allows you to defer up to $23,500 of your pretax income each year to supplement your retirement savings.

Let's talk pay

• We offer competitive pay including pay increases based on the length of your employment. We also offer special pays for educational advancement, professional certifications and specialized work assignments.

Love to learn?

• Our Employee Growth and Development Division offers free courses in over 50 topics including Leadership, Personal Finance, Conflict Management, Excel, Managing Stress, and Business Writing.

We take care of our employees during emergencies

• Employees who work during declared emergencies receive extra pay.
• Employees who can't work due to emergency related workplace closures continue to receive their normal pay.

Want to make a difference?

• We need you! Make an impact on our community through your work in City government!

These benefits apply to employees of the City of New Orleans. Employees of Sewerage and Water Board enjoy many of these same benefits, but some benefits offered may vary. A listing of benefits available to Sewerage and Water Board employees can be found here. (Download PDF reader)

This description of benefits is intended to be informational and does not create a contractual entitlement to any listed benefit. The employee welfare and pension plan documents and applicable law govern the eligibility, vesting, and schedule of benefits, and the above description does not alter or interpret the plan documents or applicable law.