Environmental Technician I, Environmental Services

The City of Alexandria, LA is hiring an Environmental Technician I to perform laboratory tasks in wastewater testing, pollution control, and environmental reporting. Responsibilities include collecting samples, conducting chemical and microbiological analyses, preparing reports, and responding to hazardous material spills. A Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science or related field is required, along with certifications. This position is based in Alexandria, LA and is not remote.
The purpose of this classification is to perform technical laboratory tasks in the chemical and bacteriological testing of wastewater, pretreatment, water quality and electric production discharge to monitor pollution control measures.

Collects samples of plant outfall and in-plant samples, partially treated wastewater, sludge and other by-products.

Performs routine and technical chemical and microbiological analysis on drinking water, wastewater and various samples; conducts various analytical pollution control tests; monitors and implements quality controls for all testing procedures.

Prepares technical reports and environmental impact reports based on the analysis and evaluation of scientific data secured during inspections, investigations, monitoring and surveillance activities; updates electronic files; prepares and processes paperwork and reports as required by department policy and procedure.

Conducts field investigations involving permit enforcement activities.

Responds to hazardous material spills; coordinate activities relating to hazardous materials response.

Assists in community outreach efforts; conducts environmental education, workshops and conferences.

Assists in the development and implementation of various projects; performs other similarly responsible work requiring the independent selection, evaluation and application of scientific standards, methods and criteria in the field, office and laboratory.

Assists in other department tasks, such as sampling and testing for pretreatment, assisting in commercial user surveys in monitoring boiler stack emissions, maintaining chemical storage records and related Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and manuals, and maintaining and operating de-mineralizes and water treatment equipment for proper boiler operations; maintains and prepares necessary paperwork.

Assists in inventorying and requisitioning equipment and supplies; ensures laboratory and equipment meet cleanliness regulations; updates and implements the maintenance plan and ensures laboratory equipment and instrumentation are maintained as required.

Prepares various reports and documentation to include toxicity reports and charts, lab data summarizations, logs and maintenance sheets, chain of custody sheets and related information.

Utilizes basic office equipment and various technical equipment to include a microtox analyzer, AQ2 discreet analyzer, DO meters, pH meter, conductivity meter, total residual chlorine meter, spectrophotometer, solid phase extraction apparatus, ISCO portable samplers and related technical equipment.

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Environmental Science, Biology, Chemistry or related field required. Previous training or laboratory experience in chemical or biological analysis preferred; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job. Must possess a valid driver’s license. Will be required to obtain a valid State of Louisiana driver’s license at time of appointment and maintain throughout employment for this classification. Must obtain Drinking Water Analysis certification and maintain throughout employment. Must obtain Class IV Wastewater Treatment and Collection certifications within five (5) years of hire.