Water Quality Lab Analyst

Position: Water Quality Lab Analyst I
Location: Idaho City

The City of Boise is hiring a Water Quality Lab Analyst I for their Public Works department!

The Water Quality Lab Analyst I supports the City of Boise’s wastewater and utility operations by performing hands-on laboratory testing and analysis that protects public health and the environment. This role conducts routine wet chemistry testing, prepares samples and reagents, maintains laboratory instruments, and produces accurate data used for regulatory compliance, engineering analysis, and operational decision-making. Working under direct supervision, the Analyst follows established quality control standards and laboratory procedures while gaining valuable experience in a regulated environmental laboratory setting.

This position is ideal for candidates with education or experience in chemistry, biology, or environmental science who are looking to build a career in water quality and environmental protection through meaningful public service work.

Why You’ll Love This Role

• Do meaningful work that protects public health, water quality, and the environment

• Gain hands-on experience in a regulated environmental laboratory

• Build technical skills in wet chemistry, analytical testing, and quality control

• Learn from experienced lab professionals in a collaborative, team-based setting

• Contribute to real data used for regulatory compliance and operational decisions

• Enjoy stable public-sector employment with predictable scheduling

• Opportunities for professional growth, licensing, and continuing education

• Clear advancement path to higher-level laboratory roles, including Water Quality Lab Analyst II and beyond

Why Work for the City of Boise?

Top talent deserves top-notch benefits.The City is among the best in the Treasure Valley when it comes to the benefits and perks we offer our employees.

• ZERO premium medical coverage option for you and your family
• PERSI retirement benefits plus 401(k)/457b with employer match
• 10 hours vacation per month (increases with tenure) + 12 paid holidays + 8 hours sick leave per month
• 10 weeks Parental Leave
• Up to $500 annual Well Being incentive
• Tuition reimbursement and free local bus pass
• Basic Life and Long Term Disability insurance at no cost

Performs routine or repetitive tasks with specific instructions and set procedures. Handles basic issues and problems and refers more complex issues to higher-level staff.

Conducts high-quality analytical testing in a timely manner in accordance with lab requirements. Performs broad spectrum of wet chemistry testing and assays. Generates data used for regulatory compliance, engineering studies and revenue recovery. Uses defined quality control criteria and standardized operating procedures (SOPs) and methods. Routinely responds and integrates large sample loads and unpredictable sampling events into daily work routine. Performs corrective action and troubleshooting.

Reports and calculates data and imports or manually enters data. Perform tasks utilizing personal protective equipment and mechanical controls. Maintains chemical hygiene, storage and safety.

Prepares lab instruments and equipment, supplies and samples for testing. Prepares and records laboratory bench stock reagents, calibration standards, glassware, supplies and bench sheets. Assays and calibrates standards. Calibrates lab equipment and runs associated curve checks. Conducts preventative maintenance and performs corrective actions on a variety of laboratory equipment. Documents all maintenance actions and changes in equipment operation or performance.

Utilizes specialized techniques and technical instrumentation. Works as a technical lead with environmental division staff during monthly or specialized field sampling and testing in the mobile laboratory. Develops and recommends new or modified standard operating procedures. Conducts research and development on new methods.

Communicates ongoing corrective actions with quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) coordinators and lab staff. Provides training on sampling and laboratory testing for wastewater process control to facility operators, lab personnel and outside customers. Assists with the training of new lab personnel and…