This is supervisory scientific work with administrative responsibility in laboratory analysis of air and water samples in an environmental resources management program.

Employees in this class are responsible for supervision of subordinate professional and technical employees engaged in conducting qualitative and quantitative biological, chemical and physical analyses. Emphasis of the work is on developing and implementing laboratory methods and procedures, providing assistance and advice to subordinates and presenting analytical findings and results to management. Additional responsibilities include contact with data processing professionals to develop and implement approved recommendations involving computerized systems. Supervision is exercised over subordinate professional and technical staff through assignment and review of work and for adherence to departmental standards and policies. Supervision is received from a professional superior who reviews work for achievement of objectives through personal conferences and written reports.

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS

Plans, assigns and reviews the work of professional and technical employees engaged in the qualitative and quantitative analysis of air and water samples; assists with difficult or unusual problems; provides training in work methods and procedures, and in the application of local, state and Federal rules, regulations and laws.

Directs and conducts complex chemical, physical and biological experiments, investigations, studies and research to determine the presence of effluents, toxins and pollutants in the environment; supervises and participates in the preparation of detailed reports concerning laboratory activities and findings.

Develops and implements new analytical procedures and methodologies, standard operational procedures, preventive maintenance schedules and quality control procedures; recommends changes in existing departmental rules, regulations and policies.

Keeps informed on current developments in gas chromotography/mass spectrometry, analytical instrumental and environmental chemistry, and issues concerning environmental protection.

Attends meetings and conferences to provide training and consultations to officials of departments, municipalities and other organizations concerning pollution control activities and legislative developments.

Prepares preliminary budget estimates and documents; authorizes requisitions for materials; conducts feasibility studies and recommends purchase of specialized equipment.

Coordinates preventive maintenance and repairs to equipment.

Makes recommendations regarding hiring, discipline and promotion of subordinates; counsels subordinates on job-related problems; evaluates and rates employee performance.

Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGES, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Thorough knowledge of the science of Chemistry including methods, principles and procedures of laboratory chemical analysis.

Thorough knowledge of the scientific principles and theories of physics, biology, mathematics and related physical sciences.

Considerable knowledge of the current trends in air and water pollution control research.

Considerable knowledge of the operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment and instruments.

Considerable knowledge of quality control procedures, sampling and statistical techniques used in determining reliability and validity.

Considerable knowledge of Federal, state and local laws, rules, regulations and guidelines governing pollution control activities.

Knowledge of supervisory principles and practices.

Ability to supervise a staff of professional and technical employees in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale.

Ability to plan, conduct and evaluate analyses, experiments, research and studies of the long-range effects of potential and existing air and water contamination.

Ability to apply scientific and technical knowledge with accuracy and judgment in developing and implementing analytical, operational and quality control procedures.

Ability to provide technical training and supervision in the conduct of field investigations and laboratory analyses.

Ability to detect malfunctions in laboratory equipment and make necessary adjustments or determine the need for maintenance service.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with a variety of public and private officials.

Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely, verbally and in writing.

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