Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

The Sample Receiving Technician is the first level in a two-level series. This position involves a blend of administrative tasks and hands-on responsibilities related to sample handling, data entry, equipment maintenance, and inventory management. The position is primarily responsible for performing focused support on laboratory sample receiving and data entry through the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), while also providing both operational and administrative support to the laboratory department. The position is responsible for ensuring proper receipt and documentation of sample bottles upon delivery and subsequent distribution of samples throughout the laboratory, ensuring proper chain of custody is maintained, and that all relevant sample information is entered into LIMS. The position generates analytical information and data reports as a key part of the LIMS sample management process. This position will additionally be responsible for supporting regular tasks such as preparation of sample bottle kits each week, cleaning and preparation of laboratory glassware and equipment used for sample analyses, entering maintenance requests through the CMMS system, making supply purchases through the internal requisition system, and the organization of laboratory documents. The ideal candidate will exhibit a strong attention to detail, proficiency in database usage, and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality assurance.The following essential job functions are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed job functions and/or may be required to perform additional or different job functions from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices. Management reserves the rights to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

• Receives and validates incoming samples and bottles in accordance with varying method and lab requirements; verifies Chain of Custody (COC) data; scans samples into LIMS; for ad hoc samples, manually enters field data and other information from COC into the LIMS database; distributes samples to proper lab sections; stores samples in designated refrigerators; notifies appropriate individuals(s) upon receipt of rush analysis samples;
• Verifies required data elements, including temperature of samples, and identifies and documents any sample that is not within acceptable requirements. Identifies special handling needs for all samples received and notifies appropriate staff members. Notifies supervisors whenever samples fail sample receiving criteria;
• Maintains and organizes sample receiving area, ensuring a safe work environment;
• Read, understand, and carry out Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for sample receiving and distribution required by the method or internal procedures;
• Perform periodic checks of laboratory maintenance rooms containing equipment such as water purification and house vacuums systems;
• Coordinate supply purchases through internal requisition systems, manage inventory levels and ensure proper storage of laboratory materials;
• Generate analytical reports and data summaries using LIMS reporting tools;
• Collaborate with the LIMS Administrator to troubleshoot system issues and perform routine maintenance tasks;
• Tracks and maintains laboratory inventory, supplies, and chemicals; communicates with vendors where applicable. Tracks delivery and ordering information to ensure that all lab processes have required supplies and materials. Works closely with vendors and negotiates price and delivery specification on reagents and chemicals.
• Manages monthly checks of safety equipment – showers, emergency eye wash, etc.;
• Perform miscellaneous support functions for the departments as requested by management;
• Communicate roadblocks in performing the assigned routine and non-routine tasks;
• Manage gas tank storage room and periodic changeouts of tanks and weekly reordering process;
• Handles job stress;
• Interacts effectively with others in the workplace;
• Follows all workplace and job safety rules and policies;
• Performs other duties of a similar nature or level as required.

The following generally describes the knowledge and ability required to enter the job and/or be learned within a short period of time in order to successfully perform the assigned duties.

Knowledge of :

• Proper database and file management techniques;
• Basic mathematical principles;
• Basic statistical analysis techniques;
• Safe work practices;
• Laboratory methods;
• Database and/or LIMS applications;
• Quality Assurance and Quality Control procedures and documentation requirements.

Ability and Skills in :

• Using computers and related software applications;
• Performing data entry;
• Using and caring for personal protective equipment;
• Preparing reports;
• Reading, analyzing, and interpreting documents such as safety rules, operating, and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals; Writing routine correspondence;
• Dealing with problems involving concrete variables in standardized situations;
• Handling chemical reagents to prepare bottle kits for sampling;
• Interpreting and applying standard operating procedures;
• Responding to inquiries or complaints from internal customers or auditors;
• Communication, interpersonal skills as applied to interaction with coworkers, supervisor, other departments, etc. sufficient to exchange or convey information and to receive work direction;
• Reading and comprehending Safety Data Sheets (SDS).

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE GUIDELINES
Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:



PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT
The conditions herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.




DISASTER SERVICE WORKERS
All Orange County Water District employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employees are required to complete all related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.Schedule: 9/80 Schedule from 7:00 am to 430 pm