Description

About Us

Brunswick County is a vibrant coastal community located in southeastern North Carolina with approximately 47 miles of idyllic beaches and an abundance of quaint countryside. While consistently ranked one of the fastest-growing counties in North Carolina, Brunswick County is steeped in history and hospitality, and both residents and visitors enjoy a laidback atmosphere, close-knit community, and plenty of coastal charm.   

Careers

At Brunswick County we are committed to preserving our resources and enhancing the lives of our community through exceptional service. Join our team of talented staff and embark on a career where you will make a difference in the lives of those we serve. Our employees are our biggest asset, and we offer competitive wages, a comprehensive benefits package, and opportunities for advancement.

About this Opportunity

Brunswick County Public Utility is currently accepting applications for a Laboratory Technician to join our Wastewater Treatment team. At Brunswick County, we provide wastewater (sewer) services to roughly 24,875 retail sewer and wholesale customers across a large service area. As part of our wastewater services, the utility is responsible for the operation and maintenance of six (6) wastewater treatment facilities and the subsequent laboratory certifications for operation of both a Municipal and Field parameter laboratory associated with those facilities. Our Public Utility team is committed to the community and takes a lot of pride in providing a high level of service to our customers every day.  

The Laboratory Technician is responsible for performing laboratory analysis at the wastewater treatment facility to help ensure federal and state limits are maintained. Work includes:

• Collecting daily, weekly, and monthly wastewater samples for plant influent/effluent, and conducting laboratory analysis to determine effectiveness of treatment procedures.
• Using equipment such as pH meter, dissolved oxygen meter, ammonia meter, spectrophotometer, turbidity meter, distiller, autoclave, etc.
• Performing calibrations on pH, dissolved oxygen, ammonia, spectrophotometers and associated meters and equipment within the wastewater treatment system.
• Recording testing results and maintaining compliance records.
• Coordinating sampling to be sent to commercial laboratory, as necessary.
• Maintaining chain of custody and all associated record keeping regarding samples to be analyzed.
• Making recommendations based on test results.
• Performing QA/QC in accordance with state regulations.
• Assisting plant operators with collecting and analyzing wastewater samples.
• Maintaining a sufficient stock of chemicals, laboratory supplies, etc.

The Laboratory Technician is also responsible for maintaining a clean working environment and following all safety procedures and standard operating procedures, laboratory manuals, state certification requirements, codes, sampling plans, federal and state regulations, etc.  Strong communication skills (both written and verbal) and the ability to work independently while exercising good judgement are required.  This position reports directly to the Laboratory Manager.
 
Career Ladder
 Brunswick County Public Utilities utilizes a career ladder program for advancement which allows employees to further their career in the wastewater laboratory field through promotion as advanced grades of NC AWWA Laboratory Analyst certifications are attained.  
 

• Individuals who do not possess an NC AWWA Laboratory Analyst Certification will be hired at the Trainee level.
• Training and testing fees for laboratory analyst certification are paid for by Brunswick County.
• Placement as a Technician I, II, or III based on NC AWWA Laboratory Analyst Certification level and experience.  

Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in biology or chemistry AND experience in a wastewater/water treatment plant wet chemistry laboratory preferred; OR any equivalent combination of training in chemical utilization and laboratory experience in the private or public sector which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the position.  

• Valid NC or SC driver license required.
• NC AWWA Laboratory Analyst Certification is preferred.  

 
Physical Requirements
Must be physically able to operate a variety of wastewater plant equipment and office equipment including computers, two-way radios, etc. Must also be physically able to operate a motor vehicle. Must be able to exert up to 110 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 5 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Sedentary Work. Must be able to walk, stand, bend, climb, reach, and stoop.
 
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Additional Information

Brunswick County provides equal opportunity in employment for all qualified persons regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by the law.

Brunswick County is required by law to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired. Brunswick County participates in E-Verify to determine employment eligibility to work in the United States.

All positions with Brunswick County require a valid driver's license and candidate must be current on Brunswick County taxes. A background check and drug screening will be conducted with a contingent offer of any position.