Laboratory Technician

Laboratory Technician

Ready to test the waters (literally and figuratively) on a career that serves your community and helps protect public health and the environment? Apply now and take the next step in your career!

JOB SUMMARY:

The Laboratory Technician has the primary responsibility of collecting and testing surface water, drinking water and wastewater samples for regulatory compliance, plant process control, and the monitoring of environmental programs as they apply to water and wastewater compliance. Positions in this class are accountable for quality control procedures in the laboratory. Additional duties include assisting in information gathering and initial preparation of compliance reports, in implementation of new laboratory procedures, in the training of new employees in standard laboratory operating procedures, and special project assignments.

Positions in this class are accountable for quality control procedures in the laboratory, including analyzing performance evaluation samples to ensure state certification of both laboratories. Additional duties include working with lab and process control instrumentation. Responsible for monitoring, calibrating, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing PROCESS instruments and lab-related instruments. Maintains an inventory of lab supplies and procures equipment and supplies as needed.

Communicates and coordinates with coworkers to ensure proper sequence of events for sampling and analysis. Coordinates with reference laboratory personnel to ensure proper supplies are obtained, sample is properly prepared and delivered, and chain of custody is maintained. Error or negligence in performance may have serious detrimental consequences for the City's water/wastewater and secondary treatment systems. For more information, please review the job classification.

WHY JOIN OUR TEAM? Joining the City of Bellingham means becoming a part of a team that believes our greatest impact comes from working together with purpose, humility and a shared commitment to our community. Every employee contributes to delivering meaningful results for the people who live, work and visit here. We value people who approach challenges with curiosity, respect and collaboration.

If you are motivated by building a career in public service, we encourage you to apply.

SALARY AND BENEFITS INFORMATION:
This position will start at Step 1 ($35.61/hour). Employees receive step increases annually in accordance with the Guild of Pacific Northwest Employees, Local 1937 Collective Bargaining Agreement and City policy. The full hourly range for this position is $35.61 - $46.46. 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 the 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 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.

• BA/BS degree in chemistry, biology, microbiology, environmental science or related field.
• One year of related laboratory work experience required excluding laboratory work performed for academic credit. Internships, assistantships and volunteer experience may be used as work experience.
• Valid Washington State drivers license at time of hire. Must submit a…