DWM Laboratory Technician – Wastewater Lab; Office of Watershed Protection

Overview

Job Category:
General Job Description: Posting expires:
October 23, 2025. Salary range: $44,286.17 – $55,357.71. The Senior Wastewater Laboratory Technician is responsible for overseeing laboratory operations to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and operational goals related to wastewater treatment. This position involves performing a variety of analytical tests and preparing reports. Occasionally, they will also be asked to respond to after-hours events to analyze water samples and will be required to work approximately one weekend a month.

Additionally, this position conducts various analyses to ensure wastewater treatment effectiveness and compliance with wastewater regulations. Applies knowledge related to standard laboratory methods, practices, procedures, policies, and regulations, utilizing laboratory materials and equipment. This is an experienced, skilled, or technical level capable of carrying out most assignments typical of the position or specialty with limited guidance or review. This level would be considered a promotional level and attainable by any incumbent in a work group who demonstrates the necessary knowledge, ability, and performance and could function as a lead or sole technician within the work group.

Supervision Received: Works under minimal supervision. May assist in training, orienting, or observing lower-level associates, apprentices, or semi-skilled employees in the group.

• Performs biological, chemical, or physical analyses of water and wastewater samples under the direction of professional staff, including but not limited to pH, Chlorine, Hardness, Alkalinity, temperature, Total Organic Carbon, Metals, Turbidity, Total Suspended Solids, Bacterial presence/absence, etc.
• Wears necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and follows all safety rules.
• Perform tasks with integrity while working under minimal supervision.
• Operates, adjusts, and maintains scientific instruments, including but not limited to pH meters, spectrophotometers, analytical balances, autoclaves, incubators, etc.
• Prepares chemical reagents and biological media according to formulae; assumes responsibility for accuracy in preparation and standardization.
• Maintains detailed and accurate records using the chain of custody documentation and LIMS software and assumes responsibility for samples and specimens that may be involved in court action.
• Performs detailed record-keeping and documentation of work activities and sample information.
• Calibrate bench equipment, record temperatures, and perform maintenance checks on laboratory equipment.
• Communicate effectively verbally and in writing with coworkers and other departments.
• Monitors and maintain inventory of laboratory supplies.
• May perform other duties as assigned.
• Stays current with laboratory best practices and methods.
• Must obtain a State of Georgia Wastewater Analyst license within one year and maintain the license by obtaining Continuing Education.

• Knowledge of laboratory tests and analyses.
• Skill in operating a computer and computer software.
• Ability to handle samples and laboratory equipment.

Education and Experience – Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biological, Physical, or sciences, or a related field. One (1) year of laboratory work experience in a related area.
Licenses and Certifications – Valid State-Issued Driver’s License. Wastewater Laboratory Analyst License and Drinking Water License, desirable. (License must be obtained within 12 months of hire if not held at time of employment, or employment may be terminated.)
Preferred – Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biological, Physical, or sciences, or a related field, and three (3) years of laboratory work experience in a related area.

Work Environment: Required physical, lifting, and sensory capabilities are requirements to perform the job successfully. Typical environmental conditions associated with the job.
Lifting Requirements: Medium work:
Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force…