Description

Position Summary:
The City of Emporia is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Environmental Laboratory Manager / Industrial Pretreatment Coordinator to manage laboratory operations, oversee regulatory compliance testing, and administer the City’s Industrial Pretreatment Program. This combined role ensures water and wastewater quality standards are met, supports operational decision-making for treatment plants, and enforces industrial discharge regulations in compliance with KDHE and EPA requirements. The position reports directly to the Director of Public Works and works in close coordination with the Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant Manager.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Environmental Laboratory Management
2.     Direct daily operations of the City’s certified environmental laboratory, ensuring accurate and timely analysis of water, wastewater, and environmental samples.
3. Oversee laboratory quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) procedures in compliance with KDHE and NELAP standards.
     
4.  Maintain laboratory certification through audits, proficiency testing, and documentation.
   
5.    Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all laboratory processes.
   
6.    Provide technical data and analysis to inform treatment plant operational decisions.
   
7.    Ensure safe storage, handling, and disposal of laboratory chemicals and samples.

Industrial Pretreatment Coordination

1.     Administer the City’s Industrial Pretreatment Program in compliance with 40 CFR Part 403 and state regulations.
2.     Conduct industrial facility inspections, sampling, and enforcement actions for non-compliance.
3.     Review and issue industrial discharge permits, ensuring proper monitoring and reporting.
4.     Maintain records, prepare reports, and submit compliance documents to KDHE and EPA.
5.     Coordinate with local industries to provide education, technical guidance, and regulatory updates.

Requirements

Required Competencies:

1.     Technical Expertise – In-depth knowledge of laboratory testing methodologies for water and wastewater, and pretreatment regulatory requirements.
2.     Regulatory Compliance – Proven ability to interpret and apply KDHE, EPA, and NPDES regulations.
3.     Data Analysis & Reporting – Strong ability to collect, analyze, and present complex water quality data for operational and regulatory use.
4.     Program Administration – Skilled in managing compliance programs, permits, and inspections.
5.     Communication Skills – Excellent ability to communicate technical information to plant operators, industries, regulators, and the public.
6.     Attention to Detail – Precision in testing, recordkeeping, and regulatory documentation.
7.     Safety Practices – Knowledge of laboratory safety standards, chemical handling, and hazardous waste management.

Minimum Qualifications:

1. Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Biology, or related field.
2. Five (5) years of laboratory experience with at least two (2) years in a supervisory or program management role.
3. Experience administering or working within an Industrial Pretreatment Program preferred.
4. Valid Kansas driver's license.
5. KDHE laboratory certification and/or Class IV Wastewater Operator certification preferred.

Compensation & Benefits:

1. Competitive salary based on qualifications and experience.
2. Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, retirement, and paid leave.
3. Opportunities for professional training and certification.