Laboratory Technician

The City of Bend is accepting applications for one (1) regular, full-time Laboratory Technician I in the Water Quality Laboratory (WQL) Division. This is an hourly, non‑exempt (overtime eligible) position represented by the City of Bend Employee Association (COBEA). The City may use this job posting to create an eligibility list for future hiring purposes. Please review the entire job posting, including the application requirements at the end.

This role plays a critical part in protecting public health and the environment by producing high-quality, legally defensible environmental data used across City operations. In this position, you’ll support water quality testing that informs day‑to‑day treatment decisions and long‑term planning. A typical day may include preparing sampling kits, receiving and processing water samples, performing chemical and microbiological analyses, and ensuring all work aligns with strict quality and regulatory standards.

The Water Quality Laboratory is a collaborative, mission‑driven team that supports regulatory compliance and operational excellence across the City. The lab operates seven days a week, requiring coordination and communication across staff to ensure timely and accurate results. This position offers strong opportunities for professional development in a supportive environment where contributions are recognized, and employees are encouraged to grow, innovate, and continuously improve lab processes.

Laboratory Technician I

The following duties are a sample of major duties performed in this role and not intended to be an exhaustive list:

• Follow the laboratory’s Quality System, including data integrity and ethics standards
• Monitor sampling schedules and prepare bottle kits for field collection
• Receive, log, and batch incoming samples for analysis
• Perform chemical and microbiological testing using approved methods
• Maintain accurate records and review data for anomalies or irregularities
• Provide excellent customer service to internal and external laboratory clients
• Monitor inventory levels and coordinate ordering of supplies
• Receive and inspect laboratory purchases for quality and proper documentation
• Wash glassware and maintain laboratory equipment
• Perform routine quality assurance and control procedures
• Ensure compliance with sample preservation and holding time requirements
• Support sample subcontracting and shipping processes
• Maintain a safe working environment and follow all safety protocols
• Assist with basic reporting for a limited number of clients
• Respond to emergencies as needed to support essential public services

We’re looking for someone who is detail‑oriented, dependable, and able to work independently while contributing to a highly coordinated team environment. The ideal candidate is a strong communicator who can effectively transition work between team members and consistently meet time‑sensitive deadlines. They demonstrate a commitment to producing high‑quality data, take pride in following established processes, and are willing to identify and resolve issues collaboratively.

Highly qualified candidates will have working knowledge of laboratory principles in chemistry and microbiology and bring skills in data analysis, laboratory instrumentation, and technical problem‑solving. They will also embrace continuous improvement and contribute ideas to enhance lab processes based on hands‑on experience.

Candidates who meet the listed minimum qualifications, including an equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered for an interview. Please ensure your application includes information about your education, relevant paid and unpaid work experience, and applicable licenses and certifications. Avoid referencing your resume in the job duties section of the application.

• Education:
  
  Coursework in chemistry, environmental science, biology, microbiology, geology or environmental science or a related field and 1 year experience utilizing basic wet chemistry and/or microbiology knowledge; OR
• An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job…