HomeMy WebLinkAbout1990-1244.Cocking et al.91-10-24iti -- - ONT*R,O EMPLOYtx DE LA CO”RONNE
~RCJWNEMPLOYEES DE“ONT*RIO
GRIEVANCE
q m BOAFJD
COMMISSION DE
SETTLEMENT REGLEMENT
DESGRIEFS
BETWBEN
BEFORE:
THE CROWN EMPLOYEES COLLECTIVE BARGAINING ACT
Before
THE GRIEVANCE SETTLEMENT BOARD
OPSEU (Cocking et al)
Grievor
- and -
The Crown in Right of Ontario
(Ministry of Transportation)
Employer
B. Fisher Vice-Chairperson
I. Thomson Member
F. Collict Member
FOR THE
GRIEVOR
R. Healey
Counsel
Gowling, Strathy & Henderson
Barristers & Solicitors
FOR THE
EMPLOYER
P. Young
Counsel
Winkler, Filion & Wakely
Barristers & Solicit&s
HEARING January 4, 18, 25, 1991
April 26, 1991
May 17, 1991
1
This is a classification grievance involving 8 individuals employed in the Ministry’s Engineering
Materials oifice at Downsview.
Mr. Cocking is the representative Grievor for all the !Jrievors other that Mr. 6. Mason, whose
grievance will be dealt with by this panel after this Award has been released.
The grievor is presently classified as of Techniciian 4, Physical Laboratory and seeks
reclassification either as a Technician 5, Physical Laboratory or in the alternative, a Berry Award.
The entire Class Standard is attached as an appendix to this Award.
The Union is onfy refylng on the Class Standards argument.
The Engineering Materials office is responsible for testing materials that go into the
construction and maintenance of roads and related structures.
It is divided into five sections and each section consists of a number of different
laboratories, as follows:
Section Laboratam
1. Concrete Cement
I - Concrete Mix Design
Steel
Concrete Construction Products
2. Soils & Aggregate Aggregate which is divided into the Preparation
Laboratory and the Petrographic laboratory
. - Proctor
3. Bituminous
4. Chemical
Mix Oesiign
Material,s
Evaluation
Extraction
Emulsion
Protective Coatings
Chemical
2
5. Foundation Foundation
At the time of the grievance the Grievor was the Foreman of the Cement Laboratory and the
Steel Laboratory, both of which are in the Concrete Section. The Grievor reported to the Laboratory
Operation Supervisor of the Concrete Section, Mr. Ron Hawthorne.
The Grievor’s Position Specification is attached to this Award. The Grievor testified that it
constitutes a very accurate depiction of his job duties as at the time of the filing of the grievance.
Within the one year period prior to the filing of the grievance, the following persons were
employed in the Concrete and Steel Laboratories, in addition to the Grievor;
1) .Chris Wojcik - Senior Technician Concrete classified as a Technician 3 Physical Laboratory.
2) Ed Kelly - Senior Technician Concrete classified as a Technician 3 Physical Laboratory.
3) Two Technician 2 - Physical Laboratory.
4) The occasional summer student.
5) On the odd occasion an additional Technician 2 would be assigned to the Laboratory for short
periods of time.
In order to analyze the evidence it is useful to compare the two Class Standards by topic.
1.
Technician 4
Employees in positions allocated
to this class are responsible
for the operation of a
Size of Ooeration
Technician 5
i
Employees in positions
allocated to this class
~direct a maior section of
laboratory devoted to invest-
igating and testing in a specific
field
the testing programme
The Grievor was responsible for 2 Laboratories, the Cement and the Steel Laboratory. This is
more than is contemplated by the Technician 4 Class Standard which speak of laboratory in the
singular. On the other hand, the Techniciaj 5 Class Standard speaks of responsibility for “a major
section of the testing programme”, which would seem to require responsibility for the Concrete section,
not merely part of a section.
3
Therefore with respect to this factor, the Grievor sieems to fit clearly into neither Class
Standard.
2. Oearee of Sunervision of the Suoervisor
Technician 4
“Under the direction of a
supervisor of professional or
equivalent status”
Techniciau
“Under the general direction
of a senilor professional
supervisor.....”
The only relevant difference is between “direction” anid “general direction”. it seems that the
Grievor has relatively little contact with his direct supervisor, Mr. Hawthorne. The Grievor was quite
often given projects directly by Mr. Newall, the Concrete ,Engineer, although about 50% of the time Mr.
Newall did go through Mr. Hawthorne first. When Mr. Newali dealt directly with the Grievor, Mr.
Hawthorne complained to Mr. Newall about this,. Mr. Hawthlorne did not review the routine rep&
issued by the Grievor and his laboratory, and he only occasionally saw special project reports.
On the other hand the degree of technical supervision performed by Mr. Newall was fairly
significant. He and the Grievor regularly dealt with each other on a number of special projects. Mr.
Newali would assign projects to the Grievor, discuss their Iprogress and receive the results. Mr.
Newall spent considerable time, compared to Mr. Hawthorne, actually in the Cement Laboratory with
the Grievor. They spoke on a regular basis, almost every day, about work related items.
in effect the Grievor received supervision of an administrative nature from Mr. Hawthorne and
of a technical nature from Mr. Newall.
However, the combined effect of the supervision wa,s of a nature more closely fitting the
Technician 4 Class Standard than the considerable independence envisaged in the Technician 5
Standard.
3.
Technician 4
4
Dearee of SuoeNision by the Grievor
Technician 5
These employees usually supervise
a number of technicians and/or
trainee technicians by
assigning, scheduling and ; checking work and by providing
advice and assistance when i problems develop.
Employees in positions
allocated to this cl&s
direct a maior section of the
testing programme involving
the supenrision of a number
of technicians through a
number of subordinate
supenrisors.
The Union’s position is that Mr. Wojcik is himself a supenrisor. The Grievor conceded in cross-
examination that Mr. Kelly did not supenrise any Technician 2’s. The Union however states the phrase
“through a number of subordinate supenrisors” can mean one subordinate supenrisor, Le. Mr. Wojcik.
Websters Encyclopedic Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, 1989 edition, contains
the following definition of the word QumbeP
“is, a certain collection, company, or quantity not precisely recorded,
but usually considerable or large: I’ve gone there a number of
times”
Moreover,. the preamble to the Class Series containing the following statement, !
“incumbents in positions classified as Technician 5 are responsible for a major testing program
and supenrise a large staff through a number of subordinate supenrisors.”
in the context of this Class Standard it is not reasonable to read “a number of subordinate
supenrisors” as including the number one. Generally speaking supenrisors supeivise more than one
individual, and it is in that context in which we interpret the Technician 5 Class Series as requiring
the supenrision of at least two subordinate supenrisors.
Therefore it is not necessary to decide if in fact Mr. Wojcik was a subordinate supenrisor, for
even if he was, it would not bring the Grievor into the Technician 5 Class Standard.
Furthermore the preamble indicates that the grievor must be supenrising “a large staff”. The
evidence indicates that the Grievor supenrised a total of 4 regular staff and occasionally one or two
5
other people. This does not constitute a ‘large Staff”.
Therefore on this particular factor, the Grievor’s duties fit better in the Technician 4 category.
4. Decree of Technical Judaement and Skill
Technician 4 xchnician 5
in addition they may perform I In most positions, in addition
more demanding tests themselves ) to the technical supervision
and assist their supervisor in of laboratory operations, they
the initiation of new or ! perform complex evaluative
experimental test techniques. or developmental engineering
They supervise a number of sub- ; or scientific studies
ordinates in the performance
;
requiring the utilization
of a variety of difficult tests of a high degree of skill
where the methods are fully and judgement in the selection
prescribed and results are ; of use of reference sources;
readily recognized but some the application of
judgment is required in the ,; mathematical techniques to
selection of alternatives and complex problems involving
sensitive laboratory equipment 1 the use of sophisticated
is often utilized. formulae for calculations;
i
the compilation and analysis
of data, and the preparation
1 of detailed reports.
in reference to the Technician 4 category, Mr. Co:cking clearly does the following tasks
contained in that standard:
1) He performs the more demanding tests himself.
2) He supervises a number of subordinates in a variety of difficult tests.
However he does not assist his supervisor in the initiation of new or experimental test
techniques, rather to a iarge’degree he does this himself, with perhaps some guideline from Mr.
Newall, the Concrete Engineer.
The question really however is whether the sort of tests the Grievor himself performs fits better
into the Technician 4 or 5 definition.
6
In the Technician 4 category, it is envisaged that the Technician 4 is supervising a number of
subordinate who themselves are performing “difficult tests”. The category of “difficult” is defined in
the preamble as being the highest of the three categories of tests, ranging from “simple” to “standard”
to “difficult”. The Technician 4 however is personally performing not “difficult” tests, which are handed
by his subordinates, but rather “the more demanding tests”. This term is not defined but it can
reasonable be inferred that “more demanding tests’ is of a higher category than “difficult tests”.
“Difficult” tests are defined in the preamble as being those tests “which require a steps in their
performance according to prescribed procedures: the use of sensitive equipment, the exercise of some
judgement in the selection of alternatives and variations in procedures: and the detailed and accurate
recording of observations and results”.
Therefore the Technical 4 periodically performs tests that are more complex and require more
judgment than a difficult test, but constitute less than the Technician 5 Standard.
The Technician 5 ,Standard consists of the following components;
a) performance of complex evaluative or developmental engineering or scientific studies
requiring the utilization of a high degree of skill and judgment in the selection of reference
sources.
in essence, the Technician 5 must exhibit a high degree of sophistication in doing academic
type research.
The Grievor testified that he has visited industrial sites to learn of other test procedures and
utilized the’Ministry library to consult various industrial standards associations specifications and test
procedures. After consulting these sources he would then adapt a test procedure to fit a new product
or process. He also consulted equipment manuals issued by manufacturers in order that his laboratory
staff would understand how to use new test equipment.
in our opinion the sort of research performed by the Grievor does not fit within the Technician
5 standard as this selection of reference sources is quite limited and it does not require a high degree
7
of skill and judgement to select these sources. This aspect does not speak to the skill and judgement
required to physically perform the tests, but rather speaks of i:he utilization of reference sources only.
b) “the application of mathematical techniaues to comolex problems invoivina the use of
sophisticated formulae for calculations.
Very little evidence on this point was presented, and we are therefore unable to conclude that
the Grievor exercises this particular skill as a core duty of his job. Although the Grievor testified that
he used certain math formulae in his work, no evidente was presented by which this Board could
judge whether or not these formula were “sophisticated” or not.
cl “The comoilation and analvsis of data. and the! oreoaration of detailed reoorts”.
The Grievor clearly compiled data and to some degree analyzed the data, however, based on
the evidence presented to the Board, it cannot be said that the reports he prepared were “detailed”.
Exhibit 5 was an example of a typical report the Grievor prepared, based on work performed by his
subordinates. A copy of that report is attached to this decision.
The Grievor is responsible for filling in the blanks on the second page, as the report is already
formatted. The opinion as to whether or not the cement colmplies with the requisite standard is a
simple visual decision as all of the test results are expressed in numerical terms and the decision
making process consists simply of ascertaining whether (111 not the test results fall within the
acceptable parameters.
Exhibit 6 is an example where the Grievor was involved in the preparation of a more detailed
report. This was a study entitled “Durability of Low Cement Content Concrete”, which undoubtedly
became an instant best seller at the Government book store. The Grievor’s involvement however
consisted entirely of preparing the data for one Table used in the report,as he was not involved in
anyway in writing the commentary on the conclusions.
,i .
5. NeDort ResDonsibility
8
Technician 4
They are responsible for the
recording of all test results
and they prepare periodic
reports in which laboratory
test results are summarized
and preliminary conclusions
are drawn.
Technician 5
Their work is reviewed on the
basis of results obtained and
;
final reports are evaluated
on the basis of scientific
i
adequacy.
This category is somewhat related to the comments in the category of Deoree of Technical
Judqement and Skill referred to above.
The Grievor’s work clearly fits within the Technician 4 category in that he prepares reports on
a regular basis in which test results are summarized. Furthermore, when he does offer conclusions,
they are either of a routine nature, as illustrated In Exhibit 5, or if of a more complex nature, are
preliminary conclusions or recommendations subject to the final authority of either Mr. Hawthorne or
Mr. Newail.
The Technician 5 Standard seems to involve g more hands-off approach in which the method
by which the work is done is not questioned until the final result has been achieved and at that time
the whole process is subject to the test .of scientific adequacy. Although the Grievor undoubtedly
changed test procedures and developed new ones, he did so while in constant communication and
subject to the ongoing approval of either Mr. Hawthorne, or more often, Mr. Newall, the Concrete
Engineer. This subtle, but important difference in the Boards opinion ‘means that with respect to this
particular category, the grievor fits snugly in the Technician 4 category.
6. Professional Level
Technician 4 Technician 5
No specific reference. 1 in most cases these employees
;
are performing at the level
of a professional scientist
i
or engineer and the
allocation of positions to
this class usually results
from a lack of qualified
professional staff.
-
9
In addition the preamble contains the following stateiment:
“In most cases incumbents of positionls classified as Technician 5
are performing at the professional level1 and such allocations may be
due solely to the lack of qualified professional staff.
The Grievor admitted In his cross examination that he does not work at the level of a
professional engineer or scientist. Moreover, Mr. Robert Newall, the Senior Concrete Engineer with
whom the Grievor deals with testified that the Girlevor does niot operate at the level of a professional
engineer as he is not conducting a formal evaluation of tests results, stating conclusion, or making
policy recommendations which will effect policy in a sl gnificant fashion.
Therefore on this particular item, the Grievor fits better in the Technician 4 category.
Of the 6 categories of differentiation between the Technician 4 and 5 category, the Grievor has
been found to properly fit into the Technician 4 In all but one category, namely the size of the
operation. This one item Is not sufficient to justify a finding i:hat the Grievor Is Improperly classified.
Moreover even if it could be said that the absence of this one component took the Grievor out of the
Class 4 Standard, he clearly fits better into Class 4 than, Cla:ss 5.
Furthermore, although the Board has a discretion to order a Berry Award where the Grievor
does not fit Into either category, we would be extremely reluclant to do so in a case like this because
the factor of size of operation Is not an extremely slgnificalnt one compared to the other factors.
Furthermore the Class Standard of Technician, Physical Labor,atory already has 5 subdivisions and we
would be reluctant to create a new category of 4.5 where the distinctions between the ClaSSeS are
already so minute and detailed in the first place.
The Berry remedy is a useful tool especially where the Grievor’s job really falls within a
different series than the one he finds himself, but should be used sparingly to create more steps within
10
an established series that already has numerous steps.
The grievance is therefore dismissed.
Dated: at Toronto this 24th day of October, 1991.
&-A/
SON - MEMeER
F. COiW&- MEMBER
.
Cateuorv 4
TECHNICAL SERVICES CATEGORY
This Category Includes:
- posltlons Involving the Lnstallatlon, operation, servicing,
repalr, modlftcation and maintenance of electronic systems
and equipment: and the planning and cc-ordination of
telephone and radlo communications inetworks ased for
transmttting work asslgnments and dispatching equipment
and materials:
- positions Involving such duties as the preparation of
sketches, drawings and spacfftcations for new buildings,
alterations, bridges, highways, Interior layouts, exhibits
and models, and mechanical and electrical systems: the
compilation, plotting or drafting of survey plans,
topographic or planimetric maps, land use maps, profiles,
contours, cross-sections, mosaics, and slfe plans
relating to aerlal, ground and legal land surreys,
architecture, engineering, community’pl8nning, firestry,
soil research and conservation: the review and recommen-
datlon on types of construction, materials, etc., and the
preparation of estimates and sp&clflcations for tendering
purposes:
‘- positions involving sub-professional support services
In such areas as highway planning, pre-construction
engineering, construction, engine+.ng and legal surveys,
entaIling s
lnspectlo I?
ti duties as scheduling, expediting,
and controlling constructia’n prolects,
ensuring quality standards and coinpll.ance with bullding
specifflcatlons related to construction projects;
- posltlons Involving the filming of still or motion pictures
ln blaak and white or colour, the developing, printing and
enlarging of film, the retouching, scrlLbIng and strippIng
of positive and negative film and pdpe!r prtnts and the
edltlhg, cutting and splicing of film.
- positlons involved In the prwlslon of such sub-
professional support services as agricultural testing
and. inspection,’ gelogical testing, and ln the support
areas of conservation and natural resources management.
- posttlons lnvolvlng the, development and promotion of
trades tralntng programmes, including counselling In
--’
-
~711s Category also Includes:
fie conduct of sub-professional applted sctentlftc work and the
provision of support services to professional staff. entalllng such
iesponsiblllties as:
- the observation, calculatidn.‘recording and
lnterpretatfon of tests, analyses, experiments,
fleld surve.ys and fnvestlgatlons: .k
- the operation of,equtpment such as electroencephalographs,
electrocardiographs, atidlometers, X-ray and flourlscopes
In support of programmes for the’dlagnostsr treatment,
and prevention of human dlseasesand hazardtis physical
conditions:
- pditlcipatlng In the management and conduct of speclallzed
programmes or units In arboriculture, horticulture,
landscape, .d.eslgn. agrlculttire. parks, hatcheries, fish
and wildlife and forest protectioh:
- positlbns lnvolv.tig the identiflcstlon, classification,
clrculatlon, organizatlon and compilation of Faterials
ln suppqrt of such soclal~.science are& as museums,
archive&and .lIbrciries..
This Caiege does not ‘Include:
- posltlons lnvoived primarily ln the operatlcn of tedio
transmltters or telegraph ehlpment, telephories or teletype
equlpment and electronic data prccesslng equipment:
; positions ‘pilmarlly Involved ln the operation of prolectlon
equipment:
,’ - positions In which a untverslty degree and teaching
certlfldatlon 1s required td teach the subject mattert
- posltfons iequlrlng the applIcaclon’of prdfesslonal
knowledge Ih the.soclal areas:
: .’
. . l l . . c .
MEDICAL AND CHEMICAL LABORATORY TECHNICLAN CLASS SERIES
KINDS OF WORK COVERED:
positions covered by these class series provide technical assistance
to the medical, scientific; engineering, chemical a.nd other professions in
a variety of medical and chemical labora,tories throughout the service.
Incumbents of positions in these classes perform a variety of tests and
procedures of varying complexity, all of which require careful attention
in their performance and accuracy in the recording of data, for quality
con.trol purposes; to provide a diagnostic aid to the medical profession;
as an aid in forensic chemistry; in support of a scientific research
programme: as a service to industry, etc.
CLASS ALLOCATION AND DEFINITION OF TERMS:
While the technical complexity of the work performed at related
levels may be the same, the field of analytical laboratory technology
has been separated into two class series in order to more clearly differ-
entiate wo~rk areas, to provide an equitable evaluation of related positions
and to facilitate classification procedures. It is recognised that some
tests. in each field may be essentially the same; that a chemical analysis
function may occur in medical laboratories and a bio-chemical, bacterio-
logical or a related function may occur in chemical laboratories. However,
the bulk of procedures and tests in one kind of laboratory will differ from
the bulk of those encountered in the other. The separation may be defined
as follows: -
TECHNICIAN 1 - 5, MEDICAL LABORATORY: -This class series covers
positions of technicians engaged in the anams of predominatly biological
materials such as blood, sera, tissue, bacteria. viruses, etc., by chemical,
bacteriological or related techniques. The purpose is to provide technical
assistance to the professions of medicine (including forensic and public health
medicine), veterinary science, and teaching, and to experimental projects;
as an aid to diagnosis for medical or medico-legal purposes or as a check on
conditiona affecting public health.
TECHNICIAN 1 - 5, CHEMICAL LABORATORY:- This class series covers
positions of technicians in the analysis, - usually for the identification and/or
quantation of chemicals or substances of predominantly organic materials suet
as soils, plants, rocks, metals, plant products, gas. air, manufactured
products, etc. The purpose is to provide tfechnical assistance to research
projects, as a service to the public, for quality control purposes or to detect
contaminants affectine health.
.1--Y .W”“”
-2- I
These poaitions encompass a wide range of technical duties. Technic&
complexity, technical competence and the ability to supervise subordinate
staff are aspects to be considered in the allocation of poaitione. Super -
vision of technicians and other laboratory staff is an influential factor in
allocations to the upper level of the class series.
In both cases the tests performed are classified generally into three
catagories of “common”, “complex” and “specialty. ”
“Common” tests and procedures are defined as those which do not require
exceptional knowledges, skills or judgment in their performance because the
methods are fully prescribed, the manipulations are not difficult to perform
and the results ar.e readily recognized. Such tests are learned after brief
instructional demonstrations and the employee’s performance improves as
manipulative skills and familiarity with work processes are acquired through
experience. This category may be further sub-divided into “simple” and
“standard” tests and procedures. As a general rule the perfdrmcce of a
limited number of “simple ” tests on a production line basis, following
prescribed procedures, would result in allocations to the Technician 1 level.
The performance of a number of “standard” tests where the methods are fully
prescribed but the variety is more dispersed, - some elementary judgments are
made.and supervision is not, closely applied except when new procedures are
used or problems develop will generally result in allocations to the Technician
2,level.
“Complex” tests and procedures are define’d as those which require
highly developed skills, judgment and experience in their performance because
results may be confused with others of simila~r qualities. Procedures may
require modification due to differences in.batches of ingredients as determined
by results with controls. Tests may be ‘-for different reasons, thus
this category may be sub-divided into “difficult” and “intricate” tes_ts and
procedures. “Difficult” in this context refers to tests and procedures, .the
performance of which require judgment in the selection of alternatives and
variations to standard procedures, the cateful execution of a series of
exacting manipulations of materials and apparatus, the operation and minor
maintenance of sophisticated and sensitive laboratory instruments and the
accurate recording of procedures and results. The performance of a, Mriety
of difficult tests would generally result in such positions being allocated
to the Technician 3 level. “Intricate” in this context means those tests*
and procedures which require a large number of operations with many possible
I”’
sources of .error at various stages and require a high degree of skill and
judgment in such functions as:- utilizing reference sources to determine
modifications of apparatus and variations of procedures: selecting, modifying .
. . . . . . . . . . . 3
._“__ --_-_
- 3 -.
and adapting test procedure6 to obtain optimum results; recognizing and
interpreting r_eactions which a.~e-di.ff~~.r-t.~.~~b-~.er,, and whic:h can
significantly affect the outcome of the test; and computing or interpreting
interim and final test results which require the application of advanced
mathematical techniques and a sound knowlezdge of scientific methodology.
The proper performance of *‘intricate” testa and procedures requires an
understanding of scientific processes at the profesai&exeLand employees
performing such test6 would normally be a Scienttst, but tli6y‘may, in the
absence of qualified professional staff, be performed by a highly skilled and
experienced Technician.
“Specialty ” tests and procedures’ are defined as those which are
carried out without definitely outlined .methods, usually requiring frequent. ___ : -. modifications, and where spectal or modified apparatus or equipment is
utilised. Interpretation of results is based on knowledge and experience
or on a comison with standards from reference laboratories. Tests and
procedures.of this nature are usu&y found in research settings and normally
are closely directed’ by professional personnel but the technical work of a
sub-professional nature is conducted by’ experienced technological staff.
Employees in positions of this nature would normally be allocated to the
Technician 3 level.
Supervisory responsibility may be a function of some positions at the
Technician 3 level. Both demonstrated supervisory and spe+list techno-
logical abilities play an important part in allocations to the Technician
4. and 5 levels. In most case’s the allocation of positions to the Technician
5 level is due solely to a lack of qualified scientific staff.
EXCLUSIONS FROM THESE CLASS SERIES
1. Laboratory positions, fiiled by fully qualified personnel, involving
the interpretation of analytical test results which require a pro-
fessional knowledge of the work area. Such positions would be allocated
to the Scientist, Research Scientist, Physician or other professional
class series.
2. Laboratory positions involving non-skilled staff performing non-
technical taaks. Such positiona would be allocated to Laboratory
Attendant, Caretaker, Labourer or other classes depending on the
duties performed.
3. Laboratory positions involved with the (determination of the strength,
durability, composition, resistence, etc. of the materials or equipment
by visual examination and standard test procedures. Such positions
would be allocated to the Technician, Physical Laboratory class series.
DESIGINATION OF DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, HEALTH LABORATORIES
1. Class “A” Laboratory - a regional laboratory processing over 500., 000
units, specimens and examinations per annum.
2. Class “B” Laboratory - a regional laboratory processing over 250,000
but less than 500,000 units, specimens and
examinations per annum.
3: Class “C” Laboratory - a regional laboratory processing less than
250.000 units, specimens and examinations
per annum.
July 1965
TECHNICIAN 1, CHEMICAL LABORATORY
CLASS DEFINITION:
Employees in positions allocated to this class are in training
to become chemical technicians. They are instructed in the basic lab-
oratory techniques and, under eupervision, they perform a variety of
common tests and may assist technicians or scientists in complex tests
or procedures. Under direction they perform common tests and procedures
which are readily learned and tihere the manipulations and processes are
straight-forward such as:- p.reparing yea.sta and moulds for microscopic
examination; preparing standardised aolu,tions; determining the percentage
content of ingredients in prepared paints; preparing samples for organa-
leptic classification; the detection of chlorinated compounds, etc.
They assist more senior .technicians and scientists in a Mriety of more
complex tests and procedures such as:- measuring deneity, of samples by
photometry; preparing microscopic slides of plant and other materials;
performing water analysis by millpore fil.ter and other similar methods;
determining fatty unaaturation by iodine laumber method, etc. They may
be required to maintain the cleanliness of the work area; wash and dust
apparatus and equipment; prepare simple reports; and perform other re-
lated duties as may be assigned. This class is terminal for those post-
tiqns where the full time duties are of a less demanding nature and less
varied than those normally assigned to trained technicians. In such
pobitions the incumbents perform a few si,mple tests on a volume basis
following fully prescribed methods and pr,ocedures with little variety
in test.9 performed or techniques used.
QUALIFICATIONS: .
1. Junior Matriculation, including Grade 12 courses in mathematics
and science.
2. Alertness; accuracy; nbatnesa; manual dexterity; ability to work
co-operatively with other technical staff; good judgment.
July 1965
TECHNICIAN 2, CHEMICAL LABORATORY
CLASS DEFINITION:
Employees in position allocated to this class conduct a variety of
common tests and procedures, under supervision, with responsibility for
the a-ccuracy of techniques and the reliability of results. In addition
they may assist more senior technicians or scientists in conducting a
variety of complex tests and in technical ‘demonstrations for trainee
technicians.
They conduct a variety of common tests and procedures such as: - the
extraction of silver by fusion methods: the extraction of gold by acid
method; determination of mineral and pigment content in paints; alcohol
and nitrogen freezing of semen; the preparation of samples of tocopheral
extractions for analysis by chromatogiaphic methods; determing the water
absorbency of paints; theobarbituric acid test for fatty acid peroxides; soivent fractionation; the preparation of samples for the quantitative
determination of knzyme activity: the determination of energy or chromic
oxide content in feedstuffs; the determination of specific gravity and
absorption of fine and course aggregates; measurement of free silica in
samples by chemical means: the measurement of radium in water by Radon
de-emanation method and aipha counting, etc.
. . They may assist senior personnel’technical or scientific, in the
performance of complex tests following laid down procedure or verbal
instruction. ~The level of-the tests and procedures in which they assist
are exemplified by the following; testing acids by filtration and paper
chromatography; chemical analysis of meat to determine content of moisture
fat; protein, and acidity: preparation of electrodes containing materials
for spectrographic analysia;,observlng and recording bio-chemical reactiona
in inoculated media; nitrogen determination by kjeldhal techniques; etc.
Under Benera supervision they clean and set up laboratory equipment
and prepare specimens, reagents, plates, tubes, etc., for common laboratc
tests.Theykeep detailed records of results of tests, noting variations from
expected results. They aasist in the training of trainee technicians and
other laboratory staff and may supervise a small number of subordinates
performing common tests on a production basis. ~They maintain the cleanlin
of their work area and perform other duties as may be assigned.
. . . . . . . . . . 2
-.
16052
-
2-
QUALIFICATIONS: -
1. Junior Matriculation, including Grade 1.2 courses in mathematics and
science and a minimum of four years’ experience in laboratory work,
or
An acceptable combination of education, practical experience and self
teaching recognized by Civil Service Commission as being the equivalent.
2. Alertness; keen powers of observation; skill and care in the operation.
of laboratory equipment; accuracy; integrity; neatness; ability to
work co-operatively with other ataN; good judgment.
July 1965
y
16054
TECHNICIAN 3. CHEMICAL LABORATORY
CLASS DEFINITION:
Employees in positions allocated to this class, as experienced
laboratory technicians conduct a variety of complex tests, under general
supervision, with responsibility for the reliability of results and the
maintenance of associated records. They may make assignments to junior
technicians and instruct trainees in~the conduct of a variety of common
tests or act as a group leader in the’performance of such tests. In some
positions they may be, respon,sible for the supervision of a group of Labora-
tory Attendants and Technicians engaged in conducting common laboratory
tests and the preparation of standard chemical compounds, for test purposes. _.. .,~ .~ .Y_.Y --____ _~
Under general supervision, these employees conduct complex tests and’
procedures such as: - analysis of soils for moisture and mineral content
using leaching, kjeldhal and flame photometric methods; quantitative ana-
lysis of herbicide mixtures, wood preservatives, .solvent mixtures, anti-
freeze, etc; chemical analysie of equine saliva and ur.ine for drugs;
extracting fractions with solvents and purifying through paper chromate-
graphic techniques; chemical analysis of water and coal; qualitative and
quantitative determinations of chemical compounds in agricultural .crops;
chemicai and fire assay of precious metals; making specialised cultural
media for research purposes; determination of plant nutrients, pH and
salt concentrations in soils by extraction , calorimetric or gravimetric
measurement; chemical analysis of materials to evaluate quality by deter-
mination of specific gravity, organic and inorganic components, acidity,
absorbencyi etc; equipment for emission spectroscopy or for spectrographic
analysis, etc. In addition to tests representative of those above they
may conduct a variety of, routine common tests necessary to the operation
of their work area.
In some .positions these employees assist professional or scientific
personnel in direct support of an experimental or research programme.
Insuch positions they are required to perform a variety of “common”,
“cbmplex”. and “specialty ” tests and procedures, modifying techniques
as necessary; srt up an_d modify laborator ; and ,mahtai*
detailed and acme records of
They are responsible. for the maintenance in good working order of
laboratory. equipment and the cleanliness of the equipment and work area.
They may be,required to perform related duties as required.
-2 -
QUALIFKCATIONS: -
16054
1. Junior Matriculation, including Grade 12 courses in mathemati,cs and
science, plus a minimum of seven years’ experience in laboratory
work.
OR. -_
An acceptable combination of education, practi.cal experience and self
teaching recognised by Civil Service Commission as being the, equivalent.
2. Keen powers of observation; proven ability in the care and operation
of laboratory equipment; technical versatility; manual dexterity;
good judgment.
I July 1965 c
’
16056
Tl%HNICIAN 4, CHEMICAL LABORATORY
:
CLASS DEFINITION:
.;
Employees in position allocated to this c1as.s supervise a large
group of technicians who perform a variety of “common” tests or super-
vise a number of technicians who perform “complex” or “specialty” tests
or a combination of the two. They ark responsible for assigning and
scheduling the work performed by their subordinate staff and for the
validity of the results obtained and they provide technicd guidance to
junior staff in each phase. They assist in compiling reports, keep
detailed records of test results, draw conclusions and pass to their
supervisor for consideration. They are usually responsible for the
control of all equipment and supplies used in the laboratory and the
requisitioning of additional supplies or equipment as required. Ia
addition to their normal supervisory function these employees usually
perform the unusually “complex” or “speciality” tests or procedures;
setting up the special apparatus necessary, recording of procedures
followed and interim results, and the preparation of the test report:
and they are responsible for the reliability of the results obtained.
In other positions, these employees , as non-supervisory specialists,
perform difficult and demanding microscopic, spectrographic or other
speciallzed and intricate examinations to identify samples, to determine
the presence of unstable or difficult, to isolate elements, etc., where
the procedures followed and the techniques employed require a sound
knowledge of scientific methodology, and they usually provide an
interpretation of the test results obtained. They have final respon-
sibility’for the validity of the results obtained and they may be required,
in some positions to appear in court as an expert witness.
QUALIFICATIONS: .
1. Junior Matriculation, including Grade 12 courses in mathematics
and science, plus a minimum of ten years’ laboratory experience?
preferably completion of advanced training in a specialioed field
or a general advanced training course,
OR
An acceptable combination of education. practical experience and
self teaching recognised by the Civil Service Commission as being
the equitilent.
2. Supervisory ability; analytical ability; integrity; keen powers of
observation.
-
--
16058
TECHNICIAN 5, CHEMICAL LABORATORY : 1.
CLASS DEFINITION:
This class covers responsible and highly skilled technical positions,
in which the incumbents, under the general direction of a senior professionai
supervisor, perform complex scientific work at ‘the professional level
involving the application of skills and knowledge normally possessed and
exercised by a professional scientist. Employees in positions allocated
to this class, as Technician-in-charge of a major laboratory installation,
usually supervise and train a’number of technicians and other laboratory
staff, including in some cases junior scientists. :in the conduct of ana-
lytical laboratory tests and practical experiments. They are responsible
‘for the accuracy of all tests performed. in their work area; they consolidate
and interpret results obtained; and they prepare reports for submission to
their supervisor. They prepare duty rosters, holiday schedules, etc., and
outline duties, assign staff and check work progress. In addition to the
technical supervision of laboratory ope:rations, these employees, working
at the professional level, perform complex evahmtive and developmental
scientific studies requiring the utilization of a hig:h degree of skill and
judgment in the selection and use of reference sources; the application of
scientific techniques to complex problems requiring a professional knowledge
of all aspects of the work area; the compilation and analysis of data, and
the preparation of detailed reports. Their work is reviewed on the basis
of results obtained and reports are evaluated on the basis of scientific
adequacy. These employees are perfor:ming at the level of proSessional 1: scientists and the allocation of positions to this cla,ss usually results
from lack of qualified professional staff.
QUALIFICATIONS:
1. Junior Matriculation, including Grade I2 cou.rses in mathematics and
science. Preferably the completion of ad,vanced courses.in subject
matter related to the work area.
2. Many years of increasingly responsible laboratory experience as a
Technician, Chemical Laboratory or the equivalent.
3. Alertness; keen powers of observation: accuracy: supervisory ability;
reliability; good judgment.
July 1965