Analytical Chemist I Print (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/bocaratonfl/jobs/newprint/4788245) Apply  Analytical Chemist I Salary $30.97 - $32.62 Hourly Location Boca Raton, FL Job Type Full-Time Job Number 04152 Department Utility Services Division Quality Control 42/09701 Opening Date 01/21/2025 Closing Date 2/4/2025 11:59 PM Eastern FLSA Non-Exempt Bargaining Unit N + Description + Benefits + Questions . Job Description The Analytical Chemist I performs technical and essential laboratory analyses of wastewater, reclaim water, and drinking water samples for regulatory and operational compliance . The chemist utilizes a range of standard methods to ensure accurate sample testing and adherence to regulatory requirements . This role participates in specialized projects, including toxicity testing, water quality parameters (WQP), well monitoring, and performance testing . Operates under general supervision of the laboratory supervisor and director, ensuring data integrity and compliance Essential Functions + Conducts chemical and physical analyses on water, wastewater, and reclaimed water samples utilizing various methods such as EPA 300.0 for ion chromatography, SM4500-PF for phosphorus, SM4500 NH3-G for ammonia, SM4500-Norg D for organic nitrogen, and other Standard Methods for various parameters (e.g., carbonaceous biochemical oxygen demand (CBOD) , alkalinity, conductivity, total suspended solids (TSS), total dissolved solids, pH, and total chlorine). + Collects samples from various locations within the wastewater plant and reclaim wells for analysis. + Conducts process control and regulatory compliance testing on water and wastewater samples. + Notifies wastewater superintendent and laboratory management to any irregularities in wastewater process control, ensuring corrective action to maintain compliance with regulatory standards. + Ensures laboratory operations align with the latest TNI (The Nelac Institute) guidelines and maintains certification through demonstrations of capability, internal audits, proficiency testing, and analyst training. + Prepares, organizes, and archives laboratory records such as bench sheets, calibration logbooks, reagent logbooks, chain of custody (COC) forms for third-party laboratories and internal samples, non-conformance forms (NCFs) and demonstration of capability forms (DOCs). + Logs calculations, results, and maintenance records systematically for compliance and traceability. + Adheres to safety regulations and protocols within the laboratory. + Prepares reagents and standards for laboratory analysis. + Maintains all laboratory specific inventory for all associated instruments and testing. + Utilizes Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to create sample identification, record analyses, track sample preparation, generate reports, and ensure data integrity. + Analyzes and interprets laboratory data and enters results in the Monthly Operating Report (MOR). RELATED TASKS: + Prepares and participates in laboratory bi-annual audit. + Supports wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) operations by calibrating lab equipment and preparing testing reagents. + Troubleshoots and resolves issues with analytical instrumentation to ensure optimal function. + Conducts routine maintenance tasks such as deionized (DI) water tank replacements and parts exchanges for laboratory instrumentation. + Participates in audits by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and Department of Health (DOH), ensuring that laboratory operations meet all regulatory requirements. + Prepares and revises standard operating procedures (SOPs) to align with best practices and quality assurance standards. + Compiles regulatory reports, special project findings, and environmental study results, ensuring accurate and timely documentation in accordance with compliance requirements. + Works closely with laboratory management and team members to address laboratory-related issues, troubleshoot problems, and improve laboratory operations. + Undertakes additional laboratory-related responsibilities as needed providing support in various analytical and operational tasks to meet the needs of the department. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of: + Comprehensive knowledge of analytical chemistry and microbiology principles for water and wastewater treatment. + Understanding of wastewater treatment processes. Skilled in: + Proficient with laboratory methods and instrumentation, including ion chromatography systems and discrete analyzers. Ability to: + Ability to work independently and collaboratively in the laboratory setting. + Ability to clearly communicate information, both verbally and in writing to colleagues and management. + Effective in documentation, record-keeping, and preparing reports for operational and regulatory compliance. Minimum and Preferred Qualifications MINIMUM AND PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: + Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in chemistry, biology, environmental sciences, or a related field of study + One (1) year of l aboratory experience + Previous e xperience with Microsoft programs + Possession of valid State of Florida Class "E" driver's license PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS + Previous experience in water or wastewater laboratory testing is preferred. + Relevant experience in benchtop analytical chemistry and instrumentation is preferred. Additional experience is accepted as a minimum requirement in lieu of the postsecondary degree on the following basis: additional four (4) years in lieu of the bachelor’s degree, and additional two (2) years in lieu of an associate degree. POST-OFFER PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING REQUIREMENTS: Final offer and employment are contingent upon successful completion of the following post-offer, pre-employment screening items: + Criminal Background Check + Employment Verification The City of Boca Raton is an Equal Opportunity (https://www.myboca.us/1226/Equal-Employment-Opportunity) , Inclusive, Veteran's Preference Employer and Drug Free Workplace. It is the policy of the City of Boca Raton to prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, marital status, age, national origin, disability, pregnancy, familial status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other status or condition protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. BENEFITS SUMMARY Full-Time Non-Bargaining Employees ANNUAL LEAVE: Shall accrue prior to an employee attaining permanent status in the classified service, and may be used after six (6) months of employment at the sole discretion of the Department Head, but it shall not be paid out upon resignation or termination unless the employee has attained permanent status (one full year). The maximum accrual is 360 hours. Year of ServiceAccrual 0 to 5 full years8 hours per month 5 to 10 full years10 hours per month 10 to 15 full years12 hours per month 15 full years and over14 hours per month CASH OUT OF ANNUAL LEAVE: Employees who have attained permanent status shall be permitted to cash out up to forty (40) hours of accrued and unused Annual Leave, either in a single lump sum payment or two or more partial payments, each fiscal year. SICK LEAVE: 8 hours per month. Any hours in excess of 960 will be paid off annually at 50%. Upon retirement, employees with a minimum of 5 years continuous service will receive 50% of sick leave balance. Termination for reasons other than retirement shall be entitled to payment for accrued, but unused sick leave, as follows: Years of servicePercentage Less than 2 full years0% 2 to 5 full years10% 5 to 10 full years20% 10 full years or more30% Retirement (normal, early or disability)50% HEALTH INSURANCE (Premiums): Employee Medical (Base Plan) - Paid 100% by City. Employee contributions are required for the buy up employee coverage plans. Employee Dental (DHMO or Basic PPO Plan) & Vision (Basic Plan) paid 100% by City. Employee contributions are required for the Employee + Dependent(s) for the Medical, Dental, & Vision Plan. CONTINUOUS SERVICE BENEFIT: As of December 1 each year - Paid during the month of December. Year of ServiceBenefit 5 to 10 full years$600 annually 10 to 15 full years$800 annually 15 full years and over$1,100 annually RETIREMENT PLANS: The two pension/retirement options are listed below: + An option to enroll in a Defined Contribution Retirement Plan. The Defined Contribution Retirement Plan will not require a mandatory contribution. The City will contribute seven (7%) percent of the annual base wages annually. The vesting period for this plan shall be one (1) year from date of hire in the classified service, which coincides with your one-year probationary period. + An option to enroll in a Defined Benefit Retirement Plan option is available. There is a ten (10) year vesting period with a multiplier of 2.00% at normal retirement and a mandatory seven and three-quarters (7.75%) percent employee contribution. + The two (2) options will be fully explained prior to an irrevocable selection. Optional: 457 Deferred Compensation Savings Plan is available. HOLIDAYS: 15 per year: 12 recognized holidays and 3 floating days which are allocated for the fiscal year beginning October 1, to all 8 hour per day employees. Employees hired between October 1 and March 31 shall receive 3 floating holidays. Employees hired between April 1 and September 30 shall receive 1.5 floating holidays. Floating holidays must be used within the fiscal year. Non-task employees working 10-hour days receive 10, 10-hour paid holidays but do not receive floating holidays. FUNERAL LEAVE: Up to 3 workdays - In State; Up to 5 workdays - Out of State TUITION REIMBURSEMENT: Full-time employees are eligible for tuition reimbursement as outlined in the City’s Tuition Reimbursement Policy which is available in Human Resources and subject to the availability of departmental funds. MILITARY LEAVE: Members in military reserve units who attend annual training are entitled to paid leave not to exceed 30 days each calendar year. EAP: Employees, spouses, and eligible dependents have access to five (5) face-to-face sessions with a counselor through Cigna's Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Services include assistance with legal, financial, parenting, elder care, pet care, and identity theft.