Senior Microbiologist Job at City of Santa Cruz, CA
City of Santa Cruz, CA United States
$5,798 - $9,422 a month
Class Title
Environmental Microbiologist I/II/III
Class Code
255-256-257
Salary
$5,798.00 - $9,422.00 Monthly
Basic Function
The Environmental Microbiologists work in either the Public Works or Water Department. The Environmental Microbiologist series in the Public Works Department is responsible for the scientific analyses of microbiological treatment conditions, microbial organisms in wastewater collection, processes and treatment effluent; in addition to microbiological analyses of stormwater, related toxicological analyses of wastewater and stormwater, plant effluent samples and basic flow-through bioassay of plant effluent. The Environmental Microbiologist series in the Water Department is responsible for the bacteriological and chemical analyses, reporting, and sampling related to raw water sources and treated drinking water and examines raw water samples from reservoirs for microorganisms of significance to the drinking water process.
Distinguishing Characteristics
The Environmental Microbiologist series is alternately staffed. As experience is gained, incumbents are expected to work with greater independence of action within established methods and procedures of the laboratory and to maintain compliance with state and federal mandates. Incumbents may advance to the higher level after gaining experience and knowledge and demonstrating a level of proficiency that meets the qualifications of the next higher level classification.
The Environmental Microbiologist I is distinguished from the next lower classification of Laboratory Technician in that the latter classification is the entry level classification in the laboratory and performs general laboratory duties in support of laboratory testing and maintenance. This classification is distinguished from the next higher classification of Environmental Microbiologist II in that the latter classification is the journey level and independently performs the full range of duties of the classification.
The Environmental Microbiologist II is distinguished from the next higher classification of Environmental Microbiologist III in that the latter classification is the advanced journey level classification that performs duties in the series as well as provides lead duties in the laboratory. In addition, this classification leads research projects and assists the Laboratory & Environmental Compliance Manager or Water Quality Manager in a range of duties including assisting in the maintenance of the Microbiological section of the Quality Assurance/Quality Control Program, the creation of the budget, and the preparation and submission of compliance reports.
The Environmental Microbiologist III is distinguished from the next higher classification of Laboratory & Environmental Compliance Manager or Water Quality Manager in that the latter classifications are responsible for managing the Laboratory; the Environmental Compliance programs and the associated programs, activities, and staff.
Typical Duties
(May include, but are not limited to, those duties listed below.)
The duties below are representative of what is expected from the Environmental Microbiologist series. Some duties are performed at all levels of the series, with the more complex tasks performed by the Environmental Microbiologist II and the most advanced tasks and analysis performed by the Environmental Microbiologist III.
In addition, typical duties for the Environmental Microbiologist I in Public Works include:
In addition, typical duties for the Environmental Microbiologist I in Water include:
Environmental Microbiologist II
In addition, typical duties for the Environmental Microbiologist II in Public Works include:
In addition, typical duties for the Environmental Microbiologist II in Water include:
Environmental Microbiologist III
In addition, typical duties for the Environmental Microbiologist III in Public Works include:
In addition, typical duties for the Environmental Microbiologist III in Water include:
WORKING CONDITIONS
Position requires prolonged sitting, standing, and walking on uneven and slippery surfaces; reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, stooping, squatting, crouching, grasping and making repetitive hand movements in the performance of daily duties. The position also requires near, far and color vision when performing tasks such as collecting and analyzing samples, in reading work related documents and using a computer. Acute hearing is required when providing phone and in-person customer service. The ability to lift, carry and push equipment, tools, and supplies weighing up to 40 pounds is also required. Additionally, when collecting samples and working in the laboratory, the incumbent may be exposed to biohazards and a variety of working conditions, including mechanical and electrical hazards, loud noise, wet, heat and cold. The use of cleaning and laboratory chemicals may expose the incumbent to fumes, dust and contaminants. The nature of the work also requires the incumbent to climb ladders and to operate motor-powered boats and off-road vehicles when collecting samples, go to remote and isolated areas, drive on rough and unpaved roads in varying weather conditions, to collect samples, and collect samples in the investigation of drinking water quality complaints.
Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodations.
The duties below are representative of what is expected from the Environmental Microbiologist series. Some duties are performed at all levels of the series, with the more complex tasks performed by the Environmental Microbiologist II and the most advanced tasks and analysis performed by the Environmental Microbiologist III.
- Schedules, collects, and conducts sampling, analyses, interpretation of results, and follow-up testing of microscopic examinations of process wastewater samples chemical, biological, and bacteriological tests of groundwater, surface water, stormwater, wastewater or drinking water samples related to treatment, quality, and distribution in accordance with Wastewater or Water Quality Laboratory processes and state and federal mandates.
- Determines probable causes of problems in results; recommends and implements corrective measures which may occur during sampling, transporting, storage, or laboratory processes; performs complex microbiological and mathematical calculations and statistical analyses for test results.
- Maintains regulatory requirements, or assists in these duties as required; maintains records of laboratory test results, laboratory operations, and quality assurance using the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) as required by regulatory and professional standards; assists in research and monitoring projects requiring special chemical and biological analyses.
- Sets up, calibrates, operates and performs minor maintenance on specialized laboratory instrumentation and electronic equipment including: autoclaves, bioassay equipment; specimen stocks; bacteriological reference stocks, dissolved oxygen/temperature meter, incubators, microscopes, pipettors, Quanti-Tray Sealer, UV-Visible spectrophotometer and water baths; troubleshoots and resolves malfunctions; assists with keeping equipment inventory current; makes recommendations regarding the purchasing of equipment and supplies and may order supplies.
- Assists in designing evaluation methods for laboratory services, equipment, and supplies, including quality assurance and laboratory safety and sanitation programs; recommends changes to practices and procedures as appropriate.
- Attends and participates in informational conferences, seminars and webcasts related to environmental water or drinking water monitoring and regulations; stays current with federal, state and local regulatory requirements and other issues, trends, and innovations related to physical, inorganic and organic chemical, microbiological and bacteriological analyses in the field of environmental water quality and analysis.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
In addition, typical duties for the Environmental Microbiologist I in Public Works include:
- Maintains all Flow-through Bioassay analyses as specified by USEPA and mandated by the NPDES permit of the City. Duties include test setup, breakdown, quality control, and laboratory maintenance in the Bioasssay Lab.
In addition, typical duties for the Environmental Microbiologist I in Water include:
- Investigates, responds to, and resolves drinking water customer inquiries and complaints; conducts field investigations; alerts appropriate water department staff to irregularities in the drinking water distribution system.
- Assists with maintaining the laboratory's ELAP certification in Microbiology.
Environmental Microbiologist II
- Trains less experienced personnel in analytical procedures, quality assurance and quality control procedures, safe laboratory practices, routine laboratory functions, water quality concerns, and other related areas.
- Participates in inter-laboratory validation studies for bacteriophage/virus analyses in wastewater and reclaimed water process evaluation.
- Provides recommendations on control and maintenance strategies based upon data from the microscopic examinations and other chemical analyses.
In addition, typical duties for the Environmental Microbiologist II in Public Works include:
- Provides analytical support in molecular techniques including real time qualitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and quantitative (qPCR) analyses in the laboratory.
- Performs method development in molecular and effluent toxicity studies at the laboratory. Coordinates work with contract laboratories on related work. Prepares, completes and files regular and periodic reports relevant to wastewater microflora and provides diagnosis and prognosis on wastewater microorganisms including bacterial filaments, flocs, protists and others and their expected impacts on plant process efficiencies.
- Prepares weekly summaries at Laboratory meetings to inform the lab on the state of the microflora and coordinate on the chemistries of the plant that may be affected by the microbial flora.
In addition, typical duties for the Environmental Microbiologist II in Water include:
- Provides lead direction on the annual scheduling and monitoring requirements of the City's Aquatic Pesticide Application Plan and NPDES permit for Loch Lomond Reservoir.
- Examines raw water reservoirs for microorganisms including algae, cyanobacteria and other organisms of significance to the drinking water process.
- Collects and prepares samples to send to contracting laboratories for microbiological analyses such as cryptosporidium and giardia; bacteroides; coliphage; and algal toxins.
Environmental Microbiologist III
- Leads, plans, trains, coordinates, and participates in the most advanced work of staff responsible for water quality analysis, methods, procedures, and techniques.
- Ensures validity of laboratory data by reviewing and evaluating the technical work of less experienced staff and leads employees to correctly process work; provides input to Laboratory & Environmental Compliance Manager or Water Quality Manager on staff performance appraisals.
- Researches and monitors special projects requiring chemical and biological analyses, including biological, bacteriophage, limnological and viral investigations.
- Identifies changes in regulations that may require new or revised procedures; develops, recommends, implements, and evaluates new analytical methods, practices, and procedures for water quality analysis.
- Plans, coordinates, and conducts special research and monitoring projects involving distribution system, storage reservoirs, and treatment plants.
- Participates in the hiring selection of laboratory staff.
- Estimates time, materials, and equipment required for jobs assigned; requisitions materials as required.
- Assists in establishing, maintaining, and revising the laboratory Quality Assurance/Quality Control Program and Procedures Manual; recommends operational modifications.
- Assists in implementing and updating ongoing laboratory safety program, following the city's Chemical Hygiene Plan; ensures strict adherence to safe laboratory work practices and procedures.
- Assists in the preparation and submission of drinking water quality control compliance reports to Federal and State regulatory agencies.
- Assists in development and monitoring of the section budget; prepares cost estimates for budget recommendations.
- May act on laboratory results, in the absence of the Laboratory & Environmental Compliance Manager or Water Quality Manager, if action is required, by contacting staff in other City sections/departments and/or regulatory departments.
- May represent the Laboratory & Environmental Compliance Manager or Water Quality Manager at department meetings.
In addition, typical duties for the Environmental Microbiologist III in Public Works include:
- Provides analytical support in molecular techniques including real time PCR and qPCR analyses in the laboratory. Additionally, will perform sequence analyses and related tasks for quality control as necessary.
In addition, typical duties for the Environmental Microbiologist III in Water include:
- Assists in the preparation and submission of drinking water quality control compliance reports to Federal and State regulatory agencies.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Position requires prolonged sitting, standing, and walking on uneven and slippery surfaces; reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, stooping, squatting, crouching, grasping and making repetitive hand movements in the performance of daily duties. The position also requires near, far and color vision when performing tasks such as collecting and analyzing samples, in reading work related documents and using a computer. Acute hearing is required when providing phone and in-person customer service. The ability to lift, carry and push equipment, tools, and supplies weighing up to 40 pounds is also required. Additionally, when collecting samples and working in the laboratory, the incumbent may be exposed to biohazards and a variety of working conditions, including mechanical and electrical hazards, loud noise, wet, heat and cold. The use of cleaning and laboratory chemicals may expose the incumbent to fumes, dust and contaminants. The nature of the work also requires the incumbent to climb ladders and to operate motor-powered boats and off-road vehicles when collecting samples, go to remote and isolated areas, drive on rough and unpaved roads in varying weather conditions, to collect samples, and collect samples in the investigation of drinking water quality complaints.
Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodations.
Minimum Qualifications
Knowledge:
Environmental Microbiologist I/II/III
Environmental Microbiologist II/III
Environmental Microbiologist III
Abilities:
Environmental Microbiologist I/II/III
Environmental Microbiologist II/III
Environmental Microbiologist III
OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Willingness to work outside typical laboratory hours, including evenings, weekends and holidays as needed.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Any combination of education and experience that provides the above knowledge, skills, and abilities combined with any required licenses is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications is to possess the equivalent of the following:
Environmental Microbiologist I
Environmental Microbiologist II
Environmental Microbiologist III
LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
Environmental Microbiologist I/II/III
- Principles, practices, standards, methods, chemicals and equipment used in microbiological, physical, inorganic and organic chemical, and toxicological sampling and analyses of wastewater, drinking water, surface water and groundwater.
- Standard methods of qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis.
- Safe laboratory and sampling procedures and practices, such as the safe use of hazardous chemicals and electronic instruments.
- Methods and techniques for record keeping and report preparation and writing.
- Quality assurance and quality control procedures.
- Standard office practices, methods, and equipment.
- Chemical, physical, and microbiological characteristics of wastewater, drinking water and environmental and surface waters.
- Statistical procedures and mathematical concepts.
- Proficiency in Microsoft productivity software.
Environmental Microbiologist II/III
- Design, develop, and implement sampling strategies and programs.
- Applicable federal and state laws, codes, and regulations.
- Methods and standards issued by state and federal regulatory agencies related to drinking water sampling and analysis.
- Principles and practices of environmental health, public health, and epidemiology.
- Principles of drinking water treatment and distribution, hydrology, and limnology.
- Proficiency in Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
- Processes, equipment, and instrumentation used in the examination, testing, and analysis of drinking water samples.
- Standard operating procedures in a laboratory.
Environmental Microbiologist III
- Operations, services, and activities of a water quality control/quality assurance program.
- Advanced principles of microbiology, biology, toxicology, and related fields.
Abilities:
Environmental Microbiologist I/II/III
- Plan, conduct, and interpret a variety of laboratory tests involving the physical, inorganic and organic chemical, microbiological and bacteriological analysis of drinking water and wastewater.
- Collect samples, prepare samples for testing, and preserve samples.
- Set up and verify new laboratory procedures as required.
- Operate, maintain, and calibrate laboratory instruments and sampling equipment.
- Conduct minor maintenance on laboratory equipment.
- Accurately perform mathematical calculations and statistical analysis of laboratory data.
- Maintain accurate records and prepare clear, comprehensive, and concise technical and administrative reports.
- Follow oral and written directions.
- Observe safety principles and work in a safe manner.
- Work independently.
- Learn more complex principles, practices, and techniques related to assigned duties.
- Operate a four-wheel drive vehicle and/or motor boat for the collection of samples.
- Establish and maintain effective working relationships with City staff, outside agencies, and the public.
Environmental Microbiologist II/III
- Make independent decisions regarding test results, initiating appropriate follow-up and corrective actions.
- Conduct research, analyze data, and prepare sound recommendations for action.
- Plan, organize, and conduct complex projects related to area of assignment.
- Make effective oral presentations to City employees and to the public.
Environmental Microbiologist III
- Develop, update and monitor quality assurance and quality control programs and resolve laboratory quality control issues.
- Maintain and conduct lead maintenance on laboratory equipment.
- Develop and successfully perform lead duties, including training.
- Lead, assign, and review the work of lower level staff.
- Perform and interpret the most advanced drinking water analysis test results.
- Develop and perform applied research projects.
- Interpret and explain Department policies and procedures.
- Effectively ensure compliance with federal and state regulatory mandates.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Willingness to work outside typical laboratory hours, including evenings, weekends and holidays as needed.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Any combination of education and experience that provides the above knowledge, skills, and abilities combined with any required licenses is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications is to possess the equivalent of the following:
- Bachelor's Degree in microbiology; molecular biology; biochemistry, public health or a related field, and
Environmental Microbiologist I
- One year of laboratory experience in an environmental or other analytical laboratory that included the performance of microscopic examination of surface water, wastewater and wastewater process samples; microbiological, biological, physical, inorganic, and organic chemical, biochemical, and bacteriological tests related to the analysis of drinking water or wastewater.
Environmental Microbiologist II
- Two years of experience as a professional level Microbiologist which included at least one year of experience conducting microbiological, molecular, inorganic, and organic chemical, biochemical, and bacteriological tests related to the analysis of drinking water or wastewater in a state certified laboratory.
Environmental Microbiologist III
- Four years of experience as a professional level Microbiologist, which included at least three years of experience conducting microbiological, physical, inorganic, and organic chemical, biochemical, microbiological, and bacteriological tests related to the analysis of drinking water or wastewater in a state certified laboratory; and
- Some experience performing lead duties in drinking water quality sampling and analysis.
LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS
- Possession of and ability to maintain a valid California driver's license and a safe driving record.
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
- Certification by the American Water Works Association as a Water Quality Analyst II.
- Certification by the California Water Environment Association as a Laboratory Analyst II
- Certification by the State Water Resources Control Board as a Water Treatment Operator or Water Distribution Operator.
- Certification by California State Certified Public Health Microbiologists
Career Ladder
- Laboratory & Environmental Compliance Manager or Water Quality Manager
- Environmental Microbiologist III
- Environmental Microbiologist II
- Environmental Microbiologist I
- Laboratory Technician
Class Detail
Reports to Laboratory & Environmental Compliance Manager
or Water Quality Manager
Supervises Provides lead direction to Laboratory Technician
Bargaining Unit Service
or Water Quality Manager
Supervises Provides lead direction to Laboratory Technician
Bargaining Unit Service
Classification No.: 255/256/257
Date of Issue: 11/09
Supersedes: 08/15
Update: 07/18
Review:
Date of Issue: 11/09
Supersedes: 08/15
Update: 07/18
Review:
SALARY
- This classification belongs to the Service bargaining unit and has a nine-step salary range. All classifications in this bargaining unit add an additional wage Step J on 7/14/18 by MOU agreement. Appointment may be made commensurate with experience. The current salary schedule is posted on the City website. See MOU for salary practices.
UNION REPRESENTATION
- This classification belongs to the Service Employees' bargaining unit. All employees within this unit are represented by the Service Employees' International Union.
APPOINTMENT
- Any candidate selected by the appointing department may be required to pass a pre-employment medical exam administered by a City-selected physician before hire to non-sedentary positions. Prior to starting work, all newly hired employees will be fingerprinted, to check conviction history. A conviction history will not necessarily disqualify an applicant from appointment
. Candidates must present documentation verifying authorization to work in the United States and take a loyalty oath as required by the State of California at the time of hire. Appointments to regular positions are subject to a six-month probationary period (unless specified as 12-month by Service Employees MOU) which is considered a part of the selection process. Probationary employees may be terminated without recourse during this period. Positions which are covered by the Department of Transportation regulations are required to submit to a pre-employment drug test and to random drug and alcohol testing.
LEAVE
Vacation – 80 hours/year up to 5 years, 120 hours/year 6-10 years, plus 8 hours for each year after 10 years up to a maximum of 160 hours/year.
Sick – 12 days/year
Holidays – up to 11 days/year
Floating Holidays - 24 hours per year - prorated for part-time
Floating Holidays - 24 hours per year - prorated for part-time
INSURANCE – (available to employee and eligible dependents)
Medical – Depends on plan selected; City generally pays 95% of the cost of coverage (pro-rated for part-time).
Dental, Vision, Employee Assistance Program – City currently pays full cost of employee and family coverage (pro-rated for part-time). Plus an additional $29.50 per pay period.
Dental, Vision, Employee Assistance Program – City currently pays full cost of employee and family coverage (pro-rated for part-time). Plus an additional $29.50 per pay period.
Life – City provides a $20,000 life insurance policy.
Long Term Disability – City provides a long term disability plan.
RETIREMENT
All new regular employees become members of PERS. Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) 2% @ 62 (3 year average). Prior PERS membership may affect retirement formula. Employees contribute 9.75% of their salary to PERS on a pre-tax basis. An employee is vested after 5 years of membership. No Social Security is withheld.
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS (not all inclusive)
457 Deferred Compensation Plan
Accident Protection Insurance
Bilingual Pay if required by position
Cancer and Critical Illness Insurance
Direct Deposit
Discount Bus Pass Program
Flexible Spending Plans for Health & Dependent Care
Longevity Pay (after 10 years and 15 years)
In lieu Medical Reimbursement of $200 /month (if not participating in City offered Medical Plan)
Shift Differential
Supplemental Life Insurance
Tuition Reimbursement
The information included in this listing is subject to change and does not constitute an expressed or implied contract. Leaves and most Insurance contributions are pro-rated for part-time benefited employees.
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