Laboratory Technician 1

The Laboratory Technician 1 is assigned to routine sampling and analysis of water and/or wastewater samples using basic, uniformed tests performed under the general supervision of the Laboratory Supervisor.

As the Laboratory Technician 1, your duties will include:

• Use grab sampling techniques and automated samplers, collect samples from various locations in the infrastructure such as the effluent streams from the water pollution control centres.

• Deliver samples to the laboratory or other locations.

• Collect water samples from rivers, streams, reservoirs.

• Operate and maintain sampling equipment and sample fridges.

• Record process and laboratory data such as effluent flows, sampling times, and sample temperatures and sample volumes or weight.

• Analyze wastewater, surface water and drinking water for solids, pH, conductivity, turbidity, dissolved oxygen and other basic analyses, as required.

• Operate and calibrate basic laboratory equipment.

• Conduct regular preventative maintenance and repair on sampling equipment and co-ordinate these activities with the operators on duty.

• Incorporate routine quality control procedures in all analyses.

• Enter and retrieve analytical data, quality control data, and other information for the LIMS and / or other Division databases.

• Other duties consistent with the classification, as assigned. These include, but may not be limited to:

• Write standard operating procedures in area of responsibility and maintain records of work performed.
• Wash sample containers, prepare sample labels and barcodes as required.
• Order necessary supplies, reagents and parts for area of responsibility.
• Arrange for vehicle repairs and maintenance.
• Participate in the Division's Safety Committee and safety programs.
• Deal with internal/external customers respecting issues in the area of responsibility.

Your education and qualifications include:

• High School Grade 12/G.E.D. graduation or equivalent combination of training and experience.

• Successful completion of a recognized university / college program in Science / Science Laboratory Technology (or equivalent), that includes at least three (3) full courses (18 credit hours) in chemistry.

• Additional courses in quality assurance, statistics and instrumentation would be preferred.

• General knowledge of laboratory techniques and practices, use of basic laboratory equipment and field sampling procedures.

• Ability to maintain automated sampling and monitoring equipment in good working order.

• Demonstrated ability to use basic chemical and statistical calculations.

• Must practice safe work habits and adhere to safety policies and guidelines.

• Basic knowledge operating a personal computer.

• Ability to use, or learn to use within 2 months of the appointment, a computer for data entry, tabulation and retrieval, utilizing Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook and LIMS.

• Demonstrated ability to communicate both verbally and in writing.

• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with employees at all levels of the organization, external contacts and the public, in accordance with the Respectful Workplace Standard.

• Knowledge and understanding of the occupational hazards, safety precautions, regulations and procedures that is applicable to the area of work.

• IMPORTANT: Applicants who have been educated outside of Canada must have education which is comparable to the minimum qualification in Canada. Applicants submitting foreign credentials require an official academic assessment report issued by a recognized Canadian assessment service at application.

Conditions of employment:

• The successful candidate must maintain legal eligibility to work in Canada. If the successful candidate possesses a work permit, it is their responsibility to ensure the permit remains valid.
• A Police Information Check satisfactory to the employer will be required from the successful candidate, at their expense.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Manitoba Class 5 Driver's Licence. The successful applicant will be required to provide a Notice of Driver's Licence In Force document upon request.
• Must be physically capable of performing the duties of the position including the ability to work outside for extended periods often under unfavourable weather conditions as required by work assignments.