Contra Costa Water District has an exciting opportunity for a Microbiologist in the Water Quality Division location in Concord, CA. The Microbiologist will conduct chemical, biological and physical analyzes and perform field investigations with a focus on source water quality. The Microbiologist will perform limnological examinations of District source water reservoirs, canals and treatment plants and monitor key water quality parameters. The Microbiologist will conduct laboratory testing using microscopy, particles analyzers and other advanced instrumentation, compile regulatory and operational reports and provide recommendations for source water management to District stakeholders. The Microbiologist will also assist with taste and odor, algae and aquatic vegetation management, work on applied research projects and apply knowledge of lake management strategies to improve source water quality. The Microbiologist will be expected to assist with treated water microbiologist tasks as necessary. The Microbiologist schedules laboratory activities and exercises technical and functional supervision over technical staff as appropriate.

EDUCATION: Equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in chemistry, microbiology or other laboratory science, including successful completion of two or more courses in analytic and physical chemistry or a related field.

EXPERIENCE:  Three years of responsible laboratory experience performing analysis of water/wastewater samples which included at least two years performing the following:

1. testing for organic compounds by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry; or
2. conducting biologic and biochemical tests of microbiologic and organic compounds that provide familiarity with analytical techniques for bacterial specification, total coliform, fecal coliform, heterotopic organisms, chlorophyll A, fluorescence and algae enumeration.

LICENSE: Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California driver’s license.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES:

• knowledge of techniques, principles and equipment used in conducting chemical, biochemical, biological, microbiological and physical tests of water and varied pollutants; standard sources of information relating to water and industrial waste analysis and of State and Federal regulations regarding water quality; research, design, and implementation of water sampling programs; analytical chemistry and/or microbiology and statistical analysis and advanced analytical instrumentation; principles of water treatment and distribution; principles and practices of laboratory quality control and assurance, and safety and hygiene; personal computer applications relevant to the solution of laboratory and water treatment plant processing problems; assigning, training and reviewing the work of staff; modern office procedures, methods and computer equipment
• ability to plan and implement sampling, quality assurance, laboratory safety and specialized research programs and provide technical and functional supervision to technical staff as appropriate
• on a continuous basis, know and understand all aspects of the job; observe safety/hygiene conditions. Intermittently analyze work papers, reports and special projects; identify and interpret technical and numerical information; observe and problem solve operational and technical policy and procedures; explain District policies, the requirements of various regulatory agencies, and temporary aesthetic water quality problems to the general public
• on a continuous basis, walk and stand while preparing laboratory samples and conducting test/analyses. Intermittently sit at desk or work station; bend, squat, climb, kneel or twist while collecting/preparing samples or maintaining instruments/equipment; twist to reach equipment surrounding desk or work station; perform simple grasping and fine manipulation; use telephone, and write or use a keyboard to communicate through written means; see to distinguish color differences in various media; smell to identify media and test results; hear treatment plant alarms; and lift or carry weight of 50 pounds or less
• train and provide lead supervision to subordinate staff as appropriate
• analyze and interpret laboratory and treatment plant operating data; reach conclusions and make appropriate recommendations
• use/operate a variety of routine and sophisticated laboratory equipment in the performance of standardized and specialized laboratory tests
• maintain accurate records and prepare clear, accurate, and concise reports
• act quickly and calmly in emergency situations
• obtain information through questioning and to deal firmly and courteously with the public
• analyze situations quickly and objectively and to determine proper course of action
• use a computer, calculator, telephone, facsimile machine, and photocopy machine
• operate a light truck and boat in the collection of various water samples
• communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing
• establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work. Possession of the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an invitation to the next step in the selection process. All candidate materials will be carefully evaluated and only those considered best qualified will be invited to the next step in the selection process; the Oral Panel Interview

All candidates will be notified of their status via email by no later than Thursday, September 13, 2018.