Student, Environmental Laboratory (Chemistry)

at  Region of Waterloo

Student, Environmental Laboratory (Chemistry)
Job Number: 2248
Job Type: Student
Temp Contract Length: 4 months
Location: 100 Maple Grove Rd - Laboratory
Job Category: Other
Number of Positions: 1
Department: Inorganic Chemistry
Division: Engineering and Environmental Services
Hours of Work: 35 (On-site, with no hybrid option)
Union: OTHER
Grade: Student Grade 09
Salary Range: $21.20-$23.56

ABOUT US!

The Region of Waterloo is a thriving, diverse community committed to fostering opportunities for current and future generations. Home to over 674,000 residents and expected to grow to nearly one million by 2051. Guided by our 2023-2027 Strategic Plan, “Growing with Care,” we focus on equity, inclusion, and sustainability. Our mission is to provide essential services that enhance the quality of life for all residents, while our core values emphasize caring for people and the land we share. Join us and be part of a team dedicated to making a meaningful difference in our community.
Dish with One Spoon Wampum:

Waterloo Region is part of the Dish with One Spoon wampum, a treaty guiding our commitment to:

• Recognizing our shared humanity and land
• Taking only what we need
• Leaving some for others
• Keeping the dish clean

This agreement underpins our vision, mission, and core values, and reinforces our dedication to meaningful reconciliation and equity.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of analytical chemistry, including instrumentation, methods and procedures employed in environmental analysis, acquired through current enrolment in Chemistry, or equivalent, at a University or College level.
• Knowledge of and skill in the operation and minor technical servicing of analytical equipment, such as pH meters, automated extractors, spectrophotometers, auto-titrators, ovens and furnaces.
• Knowledge of and ability to comply with policies, procedures, and related legislation.
• Communication skills to review, understand, and discuss detailed analytical procedures with staff, and participate as an effective team member.
• Organizational skills to perform several tasks simultaneously.
• Analytical and problem solving skills to interpret and evaluate analytical data, as directed.
• Computer skills with ability to use software such as Microsoft Office and a laboratory information management system (LIMS).
• Ability to use specialized computerized instruments.
• Ability to read and apply information contained in analytical procedures, health and safety manuals, quality documents, and instrument manuals.
• Ability to support and demonstrate the Region’s values.

• Works at the Region’s Environmental Enforcement and Laboratory Services (EELS) in the inorganic and organic laboratory areas. Under the direction of management and qualified staff, carries out the following duties;
• Prepares, clean and store equipment, including glassware, sample bottles.
• Prepares supplies and equipment for field staff and external Regional staff.
• Performs routine maintenance on analytical instruments in the Chemistry section.
• Treats and disposes of lab chemical wastes generated during analysis, as per internal procedures and applicable legislation.
• Assists in the clean up of laboratory glassware, lab-ware and supplies following analysis. Assists in sample disposal following completion of analysis. Assists with general lab housekeeping.
• Prepares various types of reagents and solutions required to perform chemistry test methods as directed.
• Maintains inventories of supplies and checks for expiration dates.
• Assists with analytical test methods, including PC Titrator, Solids, SVOC Extraction and glassware/pipettes volume verification.
• Assists in the validation of new analytical chemistry methods and/or the performance of new analytical instruments.
• Maintains SDS management system and document archiving.
• Work requires standing 90% of the time.
• Periodically moves pressurized gas cylinders and lifts/moves boxes of supplies weighing up to 50 lbs.
• Works in a lab setting; follows Occupational Health and Safety policies and procedures and uses personal protective equipment to mitigate risks associated with working with chemicals and materials (e.g. solvents, mercury, lead, arsenic) and associated odours, working near a muffle furnace with ovens and flames, and accessing and cleaning a cold storage room.
• Performs related duties as assigned.