The King County Environmental Lab is a full service environmental laboratory supporting a range of King County wastewater treatment and environmental programs. (See http://www.kingcounty.gov/environment/data-and-trends/environmental-lab.aspx for more details.) This is an entry-level classification for conducting environmental laboratory analyses using a variety of complex analytical methods and advanced instrumentation to characterize environmental samples in the Trace Organics Unit. Under supervision, this position performs and interprets a variety of environmental laboratory sample extractions, cleanups and analyses using accepted Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) methods. Environmental Laboratory Scientist I incumbents develop their skills and perform a variety of extractions and analyses with training and progressively decreasing oversight.
Commitment to Equity and Social Justice:
As the only jurisdiction in the world named after Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., one of the most influential civil rights leaders in our nation's history, King County is a vibrant international community with residents that represent countries from around the world. It is a region with increasing diversity that cherishes the traditions of many cultures.
We have a deep commitment to equity and social justice and advancing practices, strategies, and policies that promote fairness, justice, and opportunity for all – in our workplaces and our communities. With this commitment, King County has adopted a pro-equity agenda to advance regional change and ensure that residents from vulnerable communities are incorporated into our emergency planning and public outreach efforts. To learn more, please visit http://www.kingcounty.gov/equity.
WHO MAY APPLY: This is open to the general public. In addition to filling this vacancy, this recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies.
Who is Eligible: This position is open to all King County employees and the public.
Work Location: Environmental Laboratory, 322 W. Ewing, Seattle, WA 98119. The Environmental Laboratory offices are located on the Lake Washington Ship Canal at the north end of Queen Anne, close to popular urban residential neighborhoods like Fremont, Ballard, and South Lake Union.
This position will work primarily from the Lab. However due to Covid-19, there may be times when telecommuting is allowed or even required. The County will provide a laptop and other IT equipment to facilitate the ability to work from home when necessary.
WORK SCHEDULE: This full-time position is not exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act and is overtime eligible. This position is based on a 40-hour workweek, typically 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday - Friday. Periodic extended hours and occasional weekend work is required and should be expected.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Requires precision and coordination of hands and limbs to operate and use delicate laboratory equipment and glassware with accuracy. There is frequent prolonged standing, occasional to regular lifting of up to 40 pounds, raising and holding heavy bottles above the head, and manipulation of large, bulky materials. This position requires repetitive motion of hands and wrists and may require some kneeling and stooping at times.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Heavy workload, deadline pressure and interruptions due to changing priorities and malfunctioning equipment are not uncommon. Work is performed in a laboratory environment, with exposure to noxious fumes, harmful chemicals, biohazards, and high-volume or high frequency noise, and risk of exposure to high voltage electricity, harmful chemicals, very hot or cold materials, potential explosives, pressurized gas and sharp objects. Exposure and risk of exposure are minimized by adherence to appropriate laboratory safety practices.
Application and Selection Process: Application materials will be screened for clarity, completeness including online application, cover letter and resume, and responsiveness to the list of qualifications, skills, and abilities. The most competitive candidates may be invited to participate in one or more panel interviews. Applications without the following required materials may not be considered for this position.
King County offers a highly-competitive compensation and benefits package designed to meet the diverse needs of our employees and support our employees' health and well-being. Eligible positions receive the following benefits and have access to the following programs:
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King County
Auburn, WA