Water Quality Scientist & Lab Data Specialist

Looking for a career where science meets public service? Join our team to help protect and improve the quality of our community’s drinking water, stormwater, and wastewater systems through hands‑on environmental monitoring, data analysis, and laboratory expertise.

The Water Quality Specialist evaluates water quality and plant process data; develops and implements laboratory and field projects; evaluates and audits laboratory practices; and prepares scientific and technical reports, including reports for local, state and federal compliance. This position assumes the duties of quality control for the City’s accredited laboratories. Utilizes computer databases, hydrologic modeling software, and manages datasets. Performs laboratory work, conducts statistical analysis, performs fieldwork for regulatory and environmental monitoring programs and responds to citizen inquiries and complaints regarding water, stormwater, and wastewater.

Position must work with a high degree of accuracy since error or negligence may compromise the City’s water and wastewater treatment systems, its ability to meet regulatory obligations, as well as have an impact on its water, wastewater and storm‑water capital improvement programs.

The current full salary range for this position is $7,954/month - $9,638/month. Employees receive step increases annually in accordance with the Teamsters Collective Bargaining Agreement and City policy.

The City places new employees within the published salary range based on qualifications and professional experience as listed on the application material, in accordance with City policy. Candidates who exceed the minimum experience requirements shall be given credit for advanced step placement at the rate of one additional pay step for each two full years of directly related or equivalent professional experience beyond the minimum requirements.

Candidates who meet minimum qualifications or have experience that is not directly related or in a lower‑level position will be placed at step one in the salary range. For positions that require a bachelor’s degree, one additional step may be granted for applicants with a master’s degree in a related field when the master’s degree is not required to meet minimum qualifications.

For internal candidates, placement within the range is based on City Pay Placement Procedures.

At the City of Bellingham, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that helps you thrive in both your career and personal life. Join our team and enjoy peace of mind knowing that you and your loved ones are well cared for. Here’s a closer look at the outstanding benefits that come with being part of our team. You can find more details on our employment benefits page and labor agreements page.

• 10 hours of vacation leave per month, with increased accrual over time
• 12 paid holidays + 1 floating holiday per year
• 8 hours of sick leave accrued monthly
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their families
• Life insurance and long‑term disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts and medical insurance opt‑out program
• Access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Washington State Retirement plan (DRS) for retirement security
• Optional 457 deferred compensation (Retirement Savings Plan) with employer match

Leave accruals are based on 1.0 FTE, accruals are pro‑rated if part‑time and require employees to be in paid status at least 120 hours/month.

Closing Date/Time:
Mon. 06/08/26 8:30 AM Pacific