Job Specification

Purpose of Position :

To prepare and conduct semi complex to complex bacteriological and microbiological tests and to report results on a variety of sample types in support of environmental monitoring programs, special studies, emergency response and litigation. To prepare bacteriological media and reagents, trouble-shoot and maintain analytical systems. To provide technical support to the senior scientist.

Duties / Responsibilities :

Under the general supervision of the section manager, in an analytical laboratory performing microbiological analysis of environmental samples including the exposure to potentially harmful samples and chemicals, carries out well defined and documented procedures for the General Chemistry and Microbiology Section, with rotation or temporary assignments based on workload and section objectives including:

1. Using the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and software (word processing, spreadsheet etc.) to list and organize the data, to carry out calculations, and to report the results in support of Ministry programs such as DWSP (Drinking Water Surveillance Program); to add text as required, and document QA&QC information;

2. Applying approved methods and moderately complex to complex procedures to prepare microbiological media and reagents, calibration standards, and quality control solutions;

3. Carrying out equipment standardization and quality control functions e.g. choosing course of action from several alternatives such as calibrating equipment and calculating test results from measurements;

4. Preparing samples for analysis (segregating samples known to contain or suspected of containing interferences and taking appropriate alternative action) and performing the analysis; performing quality control procedures (e.g. calibration, standardization, recovery checks, control charting) to ensure analytical data conforms to quality control requirements and transmitting the data for final approval (performing initial LIMS APP1 data approval); preparing and analyzing litigation samples according to Standard Operating Procedures;

5. Recording details of sample preparation, testing procedures and methods used, equipment maintenance done, and data management performed using the prescribed forms and formats;

6. Monitoring the operating equipment (eg. autoclaves, dishwashers, pH meters) and conditions, troubleshooting and making appropriate adjustments and repairs. Ordering supplies for sample processing and data reporting;

7. Assisting (under supervisor or senior staff) with: training students and ministry analysts in routine methods and standard operating procedures, and method development and review (e.g. method updates and audit preparation);

8. Checking characteristics of the sample responses using knowledge of the analytical system and appropriate science, identifying deviations, flagging such samples for further assessment, referring serious problems to the senior scientist or supervisor, evaluating method control sample responses;

9. Complying with all Health and Safety legislation, polices and procedures; reporting all unsafe equipment and working conditions to the supervisor.

10. Ensuring samples are analyzed consistent with the requirements of Ontario regulations.

11. Notifying appropriate authorities and MOE contacts (as per current exceedance reporting SOP) of exceedances of objectives (e.g. drinking water objectives) for drinking water samples as regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act.

12. Other duties as assigned by management.

Staffing and Licencing :

Post secondary degree in Science

Knowledge :

Job requires knowledge of established laboratory procedures, standards and techniques, and knowledge of the scientific principles and practices applicable to test protocols, procedures, methods and analytical systems by selecting appropriate tests and equipment in order to conduct bacteriological and microbiological tests on a variety of samples. Job requires knowledge of microbiology to perform tests, set up and operate equipment (e.g. autoclaves), to analyze samples and ensure quality results. Job requires knowledge of the construction, operation and capabilities of automated and manual laboratory equipment (e.g. analytical scales, pH meters) to troubleshoot procedures and equipment. Job requires knowledge of LIMS and Windows based software, such as word processing and spreadsheets, to enter, retrieve and manipulate data on tests conducted. Job requires knowledge of applicable quality control and assurance techniques and the ability to interpret quality control data against predefined criteria. Job requires knowledge of applicable occupational health and safety legislation and current practices, roles and responsibilities e.g. Workplace Hazardous Information Materials System (WHMIS) and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).

Skills :

Job requires analytical skills to contribute, select or develop standard or alternative testing procedures prior to formal documentation and control, to resolve problems e.g. related to testing/analysis of unusual samples, and to improve data quality or production. Job requires observational skills, to identify and act on problem samples prior to analysis. Job requires evaluation skills to assess and resolve unusual problems arising out of testing and data interpretation or to determine the number or combination of steps required when problem-solving. Job requires basic reasoning and evaluating ability to diagnose and perform minor repairs and upkeep of equipment. Job requires diagnostic and evaluative skills to confirm results when comparing expected versus actual output including implications (e.g. processing legal samples) using quality control procedures to resolve problems arising out of testing and result interpretation. Job requires written communication skills to record data on test findings and testing methods used, and quality control measures in technical language for technical and lay persons. Job requires oral communication skills to report detailed test findings, to discuss interdependent testing procedures and to respond to requests for tests. Job requires interpersonal skills to work as a member of a team and to participate in intra-laboratory activities.

Freedom of Action :

Job requires working in accordance with equipment manuals, ministry regulatory acts, library reference materials, historical laboratory documentation and established precedents. Job requires applying scientific and technical principles to test results requiring varying levels of interpretation to complete assignments. Job requires making decisions in the selection of alternatives to standard testing procedures e.g. retesting using different/same method. Job requires discussing problems relating to deviations from standards or written precedents with supervisor or senior staff. Work is reviewed for accuracy of results. Job receives technical assistance from senior staff on unusual test results or deviations from expected results. Job requires selecting from available quality control and assurance techniques to interpret quality control data against predefined criteria. Work output in a specific assignment is reviewed for progress and alternative approaches by supervisor. Job requires discussing problems e.g. critical equipment failures, difficult samples, priority/health risk samples, anomalous results, with supervisor. Job requires establishing own work schedules and priorities to complete a variety of tasks e.g. legal or high priority sample testing to be integrated with regular work assignments. Job requires performing initial data approval function (review for transcription errors) prior to final approval by program leader or supervisor. Job requires maintaining and establishing contacts with client or peers outside the ministry on special projects (as directed).