Laboratory Intern

Definition

The Laboratory Intern works under the direct supervision of the Laboratory & Environmental Services Manager and is responsible for performing the non-technical work in sample preparation, collection of samples, preparation reagents and general glassware washing and cleaning tasks.

Essential Functions:

• Assists professional staff by preparing reagents and glassware needed for bacteriological, biochemical, or related laboratory procedures which require minimal scientific judgment and observation.
• Assists with the collection of samples in the on-site and in the field and prepares the samples for laboratory analysis; records on a daily log; inputs data into computers and other automated recordkeeping systems according to standardized procedures; prepares and processes samples using prescribed methods such a labeling, concentration, centrifugation, filtration, and other methods.
• Cleans and maintains laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, balances, automatic syringes, pipetters, water baths, and others.
• Maintains accurate records for quality control.
• Maintains strict safety standards.
• Maintains and takes inventory of laboratory supplies.
• Maintains a variety of permanent and portable sampling equipment.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Knowledge of:

• Laboratory methods and procedures.
• Use and care of laboratory equipment.
• Proper safety precautions and procedures.
• Purpose and use of computers and other automated equipment and standard applications software.
• Names, uses and care of common types of laboratory equipment, methods and materials used in laboratory cleaning work.
• Basic laboratory procedures and aseptic techniques.
• Basic practices and methods of laboratory testing and analysis.
• Basic understanding of operation maintenance and care of wastewater pumping and treatment equipment.
• Principles used in the safe operation, care and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Laboratory and plant safety methods and procedures, proper use of personal protective equipment.
• Use and capabilities of computers, automated equipment and standard applications software.
• Basic principles of chemistry, biology, and related sciences.
• Basic principles and methods used in chemical, biological and physical testing and analysis.
• English usage, grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and punctuation.

Ability to:

• Learn chemicals and equipment used in water quality analysis.
• Collect samples at a variety of sites and in varying conditions.
• Operate basic laboratory equipment and instruments.
• Read and interpret a variety of meters, gauges, and recording charts.
• Maintain and update records and logs.
• Follow oral and written directions.
• Recognize unusual, inefficient or dangerous operating conditions.
• Ability to concentrate for extended periods.
• Organize own work, set priorities and meet critical time deadlines.
• Operate modern office equipment, including computer equipment, specialized software application programs, including word processing and spreadsheet software.
• Use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone and in writing.
• Use tact, initiative, prudence and independent judgment within general policy, procedural and legal guidelines.
• Work collaboratively in a team environment including ability to accept constructive criticism from co-workers.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of the work.

Education and Experience:

Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade. One year of experience working in a college laboratory environment, i.e. chemistry, biology, or a closely related field.

License or Certificate:
 

Possession of a valid California Motor Vehicle Driver's license and be insurable with the Agency's insurance at the standard rate, and continue to meet the established driving standards as a condition of employment for this position. 

Physical and Environmental Demands:

Physical Demands

• Standing & Walking - Standing for extended periods of time and/or walking distances (1 or more miles): 30 min up to 8 hrs per day.
• Lifting - Ability to safely lift 60 pounds to waist level: this requirement includes bending at knees to facilitate proper lifting techniques: 1 min up to 15 min per day.
• Manual Dexterity - The ability to perform multiple work activities requiring a significant level of physical and mental coordination, such as accurate measuring, repair and calibration of instruments, computer keyboard: 1 hr up to 8 hrs per day.  Must be able to use hands to hold, shake, twist laboratory equipment during analysis; distinguish visually color, shape, size, and number; and distinguish visually measurements as small as millimeter and a milliliter.
• Visual - Acuity for reading literature and computer screens and ability to detect subtle color changes which are encountered in routine chemical analyses: 30 min up to 8 hrs per day.
• Reflexes - Ability to quickly and automatically respond to emergency and safety situations: 1 min up to 2 hrs per day.

Environmental Elements

Laboratory environment; exposure to fumes, gases and potentially hazardous chemicals.