Drinking Water Quality Technician

Southeast Resource Development Council (SERDC) is a dynamic Indigenous-led non-profit organization that focuses on the needs of our member communities. We strive to make a meaningful impact by supporting our people through on and off-reserve programs and services.

We serve eight member communities consisting of Berens River First Nation, Brokenhead Ojibway Nation, Bloodvein First Nation, Black River First Nation, Hollow Water First Nation, Little Grand Rapids First Nation, Pauingassi First Nation and Poplar River First Nation.

As part of our continued growth, we are seeking a **Drinking Water Quality Technician** to join our team.

Under the direct supervision of the Environmental Health Officer, the Drinking Water Quality Technician is responsible for supporting the protection of public health by monitoring and maintaining the safety of drinking water in SERDC communities by conducting regular water sampling and testing, ensuring compliance with national water quality guidelines, and accurately recording and reporting data.

Working collaboratively with Community-Based Water Monitors (CBWMs), Environmental Health Officers (EHOs), and community health staff, the position plays a key role in early detection of water quality issues, emergency preparedness, and community education. The position also provides training, administrative support, and equipment maintenance to ensure the ongoing effectiveness of the drinking water safety program.

**Duties and Responsibilities**:

- ** 1. Water Sampling and Testing**:

- Sample and test drinking water from all SERDC communities (tap-cold supply) associated with public, semi-public, cistern, and individual well systems for microbiological quality, chlorine residuals, and turbidity levels.
- Follow detailed sampling procedures developed in collaboration with the Environmental Health Officer (EHO), ensuring all testing meets the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality (GCDWQ).
- Notify the EHO immediately if test results exceed Maximum Acceptable Concentrations (MACs) for E. coli and/or total coliform, or if there are unusual fluctuations in chlorine residuals.
- Follow recommended actions from the EHO, including increased monitoring and public notifications in collaboration with Community-Based Water Monitors (CBWMs).
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2. Data Management and Reporting**:

- Record microbiological, chlorine residual, and turbidity test results on water quality data sheets weekly for each community.
- Enter collected data into the national database system (e.g. Water Trax).
- Collect water quality data from CBWMs and enter into Water Trax for centralized reporting.
- Prepare monthly reports and assist in compiling inspection reports.
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3. Community Engagement and Emergency Response**:

- Meet regularly with community leaders and health personnel (Chief & Council, Health Director, EHO, Nurse-in-Charge (NIC), Community Health Nurse (CHN), CHR) to report on program activities, accomplishments, and issues.
- Participate in the development and implementation of Emergency Response Plans (ERPs**)** involving water systems (e.g. for fires, floods, or evacuations).
- Work collaboratively with community stakeholders to maintain a suitable environment for water testing and health protection.
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4. Training and Support**:

- Provide support and training to CBWMs, including Sample Point Location (SPL) reviews.
- Assist in organizing and delivering the annual Water Workshop for CBWMs.
- Offer administrative support to EPHOs for initiatives such as FoodSafe courses, certification processing, and ongoing program needs.
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5. Equipment Maintenance**:

- Ensure proper maintenance of water-monitoring equipment and supplies according to manufacturer specifications.
- Notify the EHO if any monitoring equipment is malfunctioning or requires replacement.
- 6. Other related duties as assigned.

**Education**:

- ** Education**:

- Grade 12 diploma or equivalent, willingness and ability to complete additional relevant training or coursework as required

**Knowledge, Skills and Experience**:

- Two (2) years experience in a similar role.
- Awareness of Indigenous health and environmental challenges in First Nation communities.
- Strong ability to follow established sampling protocols and maintain accurate chain-of-custody procedures.
- Strong data collection, entry, and reporting skills, including use of systems such as Water Trax.
- Competence in using field testing equipment (e.g., for chlorine residuals, turbidity, microbiological sampling).
- Attention to detail and accuracy in sampling, testing, and recordkeeping.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and familiarity wi