Senior Chemist (20714403)

Overview:

This is an advanced journey-level position in the professional Chemist series. The focus of this position is to oversee the analytical testing activities in the Water Quality Lab's chemistry sections, including method development, data review and approval, standard operating procedure updates, and meeting all requirements of the Laboratory's quality assurance program. In addition, the ideal candidate will have good instrument troubleshooting and maintenance skills, be able to adapt specific EPA and/or Standard Methods for the purpose of state accreditation, follow all environmental health and safety policies and procedures, and be able to work well with other team members.

Our Commitment: 
We are committed to building and sustaining a working environment where all individuals are respected and valued. We believe every member of our team brings unique perspectives that enhance our ability to serve the public effectively. By fostering a workplace with employees from the communities we serve, we broaden our collective understanding of the world around us and strengthen our mission to equitably provide safe, clean water, natural flood protections, and environmental stewardship.

About Valley Water:
Valley Water is a public agency with an operating and capital budget of $964 million, and over 900 employees. With headquarters in San José, Valley Water provides water supply, enhances streams and watersheds through creek restoration and habitat protection, provides flood protection for homes, schools, businesses and roadways, and partners with other agencies to provide trails and open space for the community.

 

Key Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Develop and review analytical methods and procedures for water quality analysis. 
• Perform complex analytical testing and evaluate effectiveness of testing methods.
• Comply with the requirements of Laboratory Quality Management System
• Review and approve all analytical data prior to release.
• Participate and oversee the proficiency testing program and monitor the performance of analysts working in the immediate area of supervision.
• Maintain all Documentation and Standard Operating Procedure current through review and updates.
• Maintain service contracts for equipment in the area of responsibility and ensure that necessary reagents and consumables are properly ordered, and traceable
• Participate in root cause analysis for any corrective or preventive actions in the area of responsibility.
• Oversee work of direct reports, prepare workplans, and write performance reviews. 
• Perform routine and non-routine maintenance of instruments

Ideal Candidate's Background Includes:

Applicants whose experience and background best match the ideal experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and education are considered ideal candidates for the position. To determine the top candidates, each applicant will be assessed based on the ideal candidate criteria as listed below.

Ideal Experience:

• Seven (7) years of experience as a professional chemist in drinking water or wastewater analysis for regulatory compliance
• Experience working in in a lab accredited by California Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program is preferred.

Ideal Knowledge:

• Principles of inorganic, organic, and analytical chemistry
• Chemical quantitative and qualitative analysis.
• Principles and practices of statistical procedures and mathematical concepts.
• Methods and techniques of handling and storing hazardous materials.
• Lab testing experience with California’s Environmental Lab Accreditation Program (ELAP).
• TNI 2016 standard requirements.

Ideal Skills and Abilities:

• Plan, organize, assign, review, and evaluate the work of staff; train staff in work procedures.
• Perform and interpret water quality analysis test results.
• Develop and perform applied research projects.
• Prepare clear and concise reports.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Ideal Training and Education:

Equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in chemistry, or a related field such as Biochemistry and/or Chemical Engineering. 

 

Required License or Certificate Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid California driver's license. Individuals who do not meet the driver's license requirement due to a disability will be considered for a reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.

 

To review the Classification Specification, please click here  

 

Laboratory Services Unit (Position Code 291)
Valley Water Telework Program: Eligibility for telework will depend on the type of work performed, operational needs, and the ability for the employee to perform the essential functions of their job duties while teleworking. Employment with Valley Water requires employees to live within 150 miles of their primary physical work location located in San Jose, California by their start date.

This position is eligible for a hybrid telework schedule, typically working 10% - 20% remote.