Chemist
It’s an exciting time to be at the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA)! GLWA employs hundreds of technical and administrative staff, all working to ensure effective wastewater treatment and to provide our award-winning drinking water to more than 80 wholesale customers in Michigan.
We are looking for a Chemist (Level 1- 3) responsible for conducting a variety of quantitative and qualitative chemical, microbiological, and physical analyses on drinking water in order to meet regulatory, quality control, and process control monitoring requirements. This position is responsible for monitoring drinking water treatment chemicals and filtration and oversees the low lift storage and transmission of drinking water as conditions and abilities warrant. This position requires progressive responsibility, knowledge, and skill regarding water treatment, monitoring regulations, administrative duties, and the production of regulatory reports.
Responsibilities (not all inclusive)
Perform chemical, microbiological, toxicological, and physical analyses that include reagent and media preparation, instrument operation, calibration, maintenance checks and quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC)
Collect field samples
Contribute to the record keeping and reporting (both electronically and hardcopy) of laboratory data, regulatory reporting, Monthly Operations Report, plant meetings, etc.
Validate accurate readings from inline meters, particle counters, analyzer reagent change/replenishment, and verify local readings against sample analyses
Monitor and control water treatment chemical processes and maintain regulatory compliance
Solve difficult technical problems, devise solutions and apply new methods to water and wastewater treatment and laboratory analyses
Participate in laboratory certification preparation and renewal
Maintain a clean lab
Perform shift work which includes all day, afternoon, night, weekend and holiday assignments
Purchase laboratory supplies, equipment, consumables, and chemicals
Participate in the chlorine leak response team
Contribute to laboratory and safety training
The Chemist – Level 3 may be required to perform team coordination activities within the functional unit.
Required Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in chemistry or related science
Must obtain a Michigan F3 license or Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator D Certification within two (2) years of Level 1 designation
Meet all requirements to advance to a Chemist Level 2 within five (5) years of Level 1 designation
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Standard laboratory techniques and practices
Drinking water regulations and regulatory compliance
Water and wastewater treatment chemical processes
Safety standards in water and wastewater treatment plants
Develop standard operating procedures
Contribute to the record keeping and reporting
Use laboratory instruments for treatment analysis of water and wastewater
Use advanced technology
Conduct precise observations
Take and verify accurate readings against sample analyses
Work with limited oversight
Become an expert in all drinking water and wastewater laboratory analyses and water treatment
Use Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)
Troubleshoot, recognize and resolve problems
Effectively utilize appropriate security and safety equipment and procedures
Maintain regular and reliable attendance
Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing
Understand and follow verbal and written instructions
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with others
Communicate frequently with team members and other units across the Organization about process, equipment or potential problems
Develop proficiency in unit specific operations and software
Direct team activities or to work as a team member
Other Requirements:
Wear personal protective equipment (PPE)
A valid Michigan Driver’s License and the ability to drive a motor vehicle on all terrain
Follow security and safety policies and procedures in carrying out work duties
Provide on the job training
GLWA offers competitive pay, opportunity for advancement, on the job training, ongoing professional development, tuition assistance and a career in a sector that safeguards public health, supports and strengthen communities, and protects the environment. To learn more about our mission go to One Water