Sample Custodian II

ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Laboratory Technician II
Biologist/Chemist
Biologist Sr./Chemist Sr.
Water Quality Supervisor
Laboratory Supervisor

POSITION SUMMARY

This position is responsible for performing critical sample receipt and sample document evaluation in accordance with TCEQ and Trinity River Authority Laboratory requirements. Follows standard operating procedures and TNI/NELAP protocol for accepting and logging water, wastewater and solid samples for analysis. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1.       Interacts in a professional and positive manner with laboratory customers and state auditors. Reviews sample chain of custody while customer is present for accuracy

2.       Uses basic laboratory equipment and chemicals to evaluate samples (i.e. infrared temperature meter, bar code scanner, bar code labeling printer, chlorine indicator, pH measurement strips.). Daily ensures that all sample receiving equipment is functioning properly.

3.       Log samples with all evaluation information data and detail into the Laboratory Information Management Software (LIMS). Scan and attach associated documents electronically through the LIMS system to each sample.

4.       Properly store or distribute samples for in‐house processing. Prepares sampling containers as required including addition of preservatives. Properly prepares samples for shipping or transfer to subcontracted laboratories.

5.       Maintains LIMS Barcode printer and ensures adequate supply of barcode label supplies. Maintains sample evaluation supplies such as pH measuring strips and aliquot cups.

6.       Orders internal and external customer supplies and reagents as necessary and prepares those supplies for distribution.

7.       Maintains laboratory equipment to comply with state and federal laboratory certification, and NELAP accreditation (Bar code labeling system for sample custody tracking). Ensure that temperature logs are posted monthly on all equipment and rooms necessary. Document retention as prescribed. 

8.       Properly dispose of samples.

9.       Ensures that receiving area is organized and clear of clutter for customer interactions. Ensures supply room is well organized and stocked with adequate levels of needed inventory and audited to control stock.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This position does not regularly provide work leadership or full personnel management to any employees.

FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

No significant financial responsibility. 

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

High school diploma or GED with 30 hours of college courses including basic science and or math courses preferred

EXPERIENCE

One year of laboratory or chemical material handling or One year of laboratory data entry related experience or one year customer service experience

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

Texas Driver’s license.  State Water and/or Wastewater Certification desired.  

KNOWLEDGE

Requires knowledge of handling waste related or chemical related materials. Knowledge of data entry techniques.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Ability to communicate clearly with staff, customers and supervisors. Ability to maintain quality control records, document work accurately and perform detailed data entry into computer software systems.

GUIDANCE RECEIVED

Receives ongoing supervision. Follows standard operating procedures and/or detailed instructions for each task or assignment; any situation that calls for something different is referred to a supervisor or more senior position.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This position requires passing a physical and physical ability assessment specific to this position.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Working conditions will include exposure to wastewater and wastewater odors, fumes, chemical hazards and dust.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED

Infrared Temperature Meter, Bar Code Scanner, Bar Code Labeling machine, pH measurement strips, laboratory carts, aliquot cups, sample containers, laboratory glassware, disposal bags, data entry computer stations, storage vaults and refrigerators. Personal protective equipment provided.