Environmental Chemist I/II

Job Description:

Environmental Chemist I/II

Description

Description

ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMIST I/II

Regular Full-Time Employment Opportunity

The final filing date is Monday, May 5, 2025 by 5:00 pm or after receiving 100 qualified and complete applications, whichever is first.


The Environmental Services Department is looking to fill a current vacancy in the Environmental Chemist I/II classification in the laboratory. Depending on the applicant qualifications, the position will be filled at the appropriate level/salary of either an Environmental Chemist I or Environmental Chemist II. The eligibility list may be used for future vacancies in the laboratory.

The Environmental Services Department provides comprehensive and innovative utility services for Sunnyvale's residents and businesses and facilitates initiatives to achieve the City's sustainability objectives. The department brings together technical, operational, and administrative professional disciplines to form its dedicated and dynamic team.

The laboratory performs a variety of physical, chemical, biological and bacteriological analyses to monitor operations and demonstrate compliance for the City's wastewater, drinking water and industrial pretreatment programs. The Environmental Chemist I works independently under general supervision of the Senior Environmental Chemist, performing advanced chemical, physical, and bacteriological analyses of wastewater, drinking water and industrial wastes.

Under general supervision of the Senior Environmental Chemist, performs chemical, physical, and bacteriological analyses of potable water, sewage and industrial wastes, influents and effluents, and process control samples at the City's Water Pollution Control Plant Environmental Laboratory; provides professional support in areas of assignment; and performs related work as assigned.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Environmental Chemist I is the entry-level classification of the Environmental Chemist series. Initially, incumbents perform assigned duties under general supervision, while learning related policies and procedures. Environmental Chemist I is distinguished from the Environmental Chemist II classification by the performance of less than the full range of duties assigned to the Environmental Chemist II. As experience is gained, there is a greater independence of action within established guidelines. The classification is alternately staffed with Environmental Chemist II and incumbents may advance to the higher level after gaining experience and demonstrating a level of proficiency that meets the qualifications of the higher level classification. Incumbents are not automatically promoted to the higher level; the needs of the department determine the level of assignment.

Environmental Chemist II is the journey-level classification in the series. Incumbents are expected to independently perform the full scope of duties associated with the testing and analysis of pretreatment samples, plant effluent, and drinking water under direction. The Environmental Chemist II is distinguished from the higher-level classification of Senior Environmental Chemist in that the Senior Environmental Chemist is the advanced journey level in the series responsible for providing first line supervision to professional and technical staff. Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the I level once the incumbent meets the qualification standards of the II level, demonstrates an ability to perform the full scope of work, and meets performance expectations. Incumbents are not automatically promoted to the higher level; the needs of the department determine the level of assignment.

Essential Job Functions

(May include, but are not limited to, the following):

• Collects and analyzes samples from municipal water and water pollution control systems for laboratory analyses and process control in accordance with Federal and State permit requirements.
• Performs physical, bacteriological and advanced chemical analyses of potable water samples, wastewater and related byproducts to monitor treatment plant operations and industrial discharges.
• Operates advanced instrumentation in performing tests and analyses, including but not limited to, spectrophotometer, atomic absorption spectrophotometer, gas chromatograph, gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer, ion chromatograph, and interprets data obtained; performs routine calibration and maintenance of laboratory instrumentation equipment as required.
• Documents test results and compiles laboratory data using manual and computer based data management systems; performs mathematical calculations and statistical analyses of test results using both manual and computer-based methods.
• Performs physical and advanced chemical analyses for the industrial pretreatment monitoring program.
• Assists in the preparation of routine and special reports for management, the State and other regulatory agencies, using computerized software applications.
• Prepares reagents and media for chemical and bacteriological analyses, and conducts quality control tests to determine their suitability for use in routine test methods.
• Performs all work assignments in accordance with safety rules, regulations and emergency procedures, and maintains laboratory equipment and laboratory hygiene.
• Assists senior and supervisory staff on special analytical research projects, as assigned.
• May assist in training less experienced professional and technical staff on new techniques and advanced instrumentation, and may direct the work activities of Environmental Laboratory Technicians.
• Participates in the laboratory quality assurance and quality control program, staff and professional meetings, workshops and seminars; may serve as laboratory safety representative.
• Assists in the development of analytical methods or revisions to laboratory procedures.
• Responds to requests for laboratory services.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Position requires prolonged sitting, standing, walking on level, uneven and slippery surfaces, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, squatting and stooping in the performance of daily activities. The position also requires grasping, repetitive hand movement and fine coordination in using a computer keyboard and certain tools. The position also requires near and far vision when performing tasks such as testing and analysis work, in reading written work related documents and using a computer. Acute hearing is required when providing phone and personal customer service. The need to lift, drag, carry and push equipment, tools and supplies up to 50 pounds is also required. Additionally, the incumbent may be exposed to mechanical and electrical hazards, constant noise, and chemicals in the laboratory. Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodations.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience:

The minimum qualifications for education and experience can be met in the following way:

Environmental Chemist I

A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in chemistry, biology, or a closely related field.

Environmental Chemist II

A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in chemistry, biology, or a closely related field; AND

Two years of professional experience in a water or wastewater laboratory performing chemical, physical and bacteriological analysis of samples, using advanced instrumentation and analytical techniques similar to an Environmental Chemist I with the City of Sunnyvale.

Knowledge of:

Environmental Chemist I

• Basic principles and practices of chemistry and bacteriology.
• Advanced laboratory test procedures and methodology.
• General computer applications associated with laboratory instrumentation.
• Basic sampling techniques and chain of custody procedures.
• Data systems or tools to track, log, and manage laboratory data.
• Office methods, procedures, software and equipment.

Ability to:

• Learn to conduct chemical and biological tests and analyses.
• Learn to operate advanced laboratory instrumentation and equipment.
• Develop precise and detailed statistical information, charts and data files.
• Perform routine maintenance and calibration of instruments and equipment.
• Learn to interpret tests results appropriately.
• Work in, with, and around wastewater, industrial wastes, hazardous substances, laboratory chemicals, and reactive agents.
• Follow instructions and standard operating procedures.
• Maintain accurate data and orderly records.
• Learn to read and interpret complex technical documents and instructions.
• Operate a computer using word processing and business software and other office equipment.
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain and promote positive and effective working relationships with employees, other agencies, public officials and the public.
• Demonstrate initiative and exercise good judgment in the performance of duties.
• Work independently and as a team member; recognize and set priorities and meet deadlines.
• Observe safety principles and work in a safe manner.

Knowledge of:

Environmental Chemist II
The above, plus:

• Principles and practices of chemistry and bacteriology.
• Current laboratory test procedures and methodology.
• Advanced computer applications associated with laboratory instrumentation.
• Laboratory monitoring criteria and test parameters.
• Complex sampling techniques and chain of custody procedures.

Ability to:

• Conduct chemical and biological tests and analyses independently.
• Operate advanced laboratory instrumentation and equipment.
• Develop precise and detailed statistical information, charts and data files.
• Perform maintenance and calibration of instruments and equipment.
• Interpret tests results independently.
• Convey technical information to a non-technical audience.
• Read and interpret complex technical documents and instructions.

Willingness to:

Wear protective clothing and use protective equipment.

Licenses/Certificates:

Possession and continued maintenance of a valid class C California driver's license or the ability to provide alternative transportation as approved by the appointing authority and a safe driving record.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

Environmental Chemist I

Possession of a valid Grade I Certificate in Laboratory Analyses issued by the California Water Environment Association.

Environmental Chemist II

Possession of a valid Grade II Certificate in Laboratory Analyses issued by the California Water Environment Association.

Application and Selection Process

If you are interested in this opportunity, please submit a City of Sunnyvale employment application and responses to the supplemental questions to the Department of Human Resources no later than 5:00 pm on Monday, May 5, 2025. Candidates are asked to fully describe any training, education, experience, or skills relevant to this position. Electronic applications may be submitted on-line through the City's employment page at Sunnyvale.ca.gov and click on JOBS. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

EXAM PROCESS

Applications will be competitively screened based on the minimum qualifications of this position. Based upon a review of the application materials, the most qualified candidates will be invited to participate in the examination process, which may consist of an oral examination scheduled for Monday, May 26, 2025 ( Note: The examination process may be changed as deemed necessary by the Director of Human Resources).

SELECTION PROCESS

Those candidates that receive a passing score on the examination will be placed on an eligibility list for up to one year, in accordance with the City's Civil Service Rules and Administrative Policies. Top candidates on the eligibility list will be invited to participate in a selection interview with the Environmental Services Department tentatively scheduled for the week of June 2, 2025.

Any candidate selected by the hiring department will be required to successfully complete a pre-employment process, which may consist of a comprehensive background investigation, as well as medical exam(s) administered by a City-selected physician(s) before hire. Prior to starting work, all newly-hired employees will be fingerprinted to check conviction history. A conviction history will not necessarily disqualify an applicant from appointment; however, failure to disclose conviction history will result in refusal of employment or termination.

INFORMATION ABOUT PROOF OF EDUCATION

Any successful candidate selected by the hiring department will be required to submit proof of education (i.e., original copy of the diploma or college/university transcripts).

Any successful candidate selected by the hiring department will be required to submit proof of education (i.e., copy of the diploma or college/university transcripts). An applicant with a college degree obtained outside the United States must have education records evaluated by a credential evaluation service at the candidate's expense. Candidates may utilize any third-party agency for the evaluation. If you search ‘education equivalency verification' or similar online, you will obtain results for agencies that provide this evaluation service. A conditional job offer cannot be made until the education has been evaluated and submitted to the Department of Human Resources.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Summary of Sunnyvale's Employees Association (For Full Time Positions) SEA Benefits

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• How to Apply for a City of Sunnyvale Job - YouTube (5:13)

The information contained within this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract.

The City of Sunnyvale is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is the policy of the City of Sunnyvale not to discriminate against all qualified applicants or employees on the basis of actual or perceived race, religion (including religious dress or grooming practice), color, sex (includes gender, pregnancy, childbirth, medical conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth, breastfeeding or medical conditions related to breastfeeding), gender identity and/or gender expression, sexual orientation (including heterosexuality, homosexuality and bisexuality), ethnic or national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, uniformed service member status, marital status, family relationship, age, cancer or HIV/AIDS related medical condition, genetic characteristics and/or genetic information, and physical or mental disability. Applicants needing special accommodations for testing should submit a request to the Department of Human Resources at time of application.

Summary of Sunnyvale's Employees Association (For Full Time Positions) SEA Benefits

Summary of Service Employees International Union, Local 521 (For Part Time Positions) SEIU Benefits

Notice of CFRA (California Family Rights Act) Rights and Obligations

Closing Date/Time: 5/5/2025 5:00 PM Pacific

Salary:

$40.70 - $60.42 Hourly