Laboratory Technician - Environmental Quality Control

The City of Omaha is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and an E-Verify participant.

Laboratory Technician I - Environmental Quality Control - 3452

Posted 3 days ago | Apply before July 3, 2026

Posting Type: Open Competitive

Work Type: Full Time

Nature of Work: This is entry-level technical laboratory work in the analysis of wastewater and sludge samples for proper wastewater treatment plant operation. Employees work independently; however, technical supervision may be given by a senior Laboratory Technician.

• High school graduation or equivalent and 12 hours post‑secondary coursework in chemistry or biology; quantitative analysis coursework preferred.
• One year of experience performing advanced laboratory tests and analyses.

$20.33 with step increases to $27.92 Hourly

Forty‑hour work week. Paid leave per year: twelve days vacation; eighteen days sick; fourteen holidays. Group health insurance (major medical, vision, dental) for individuals or families. Defined benefit pension plan, Social Security, and more.

• Knowledge of laboratory equipment, terminology, and a wide variety of standard laboratory procedures.
• Knowledge of chemistry and/or biology principles.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and practices applicable to laboratory duties.
• Knowledge of quality control procedures.
• Skill in performing wet chemical tests and various routine laboratory tests involving samples.
• Ability to calibrate delicate instruments and take accurate readings on fine gauges.
• Ability to interpret results of laboratory tests.
• Ability to recognize color, odor, texture, and weight of samples.
• Ability to understand oral or written instructions.
• Physical ability to stand, reach, and walk 76‑100% of the time; bend and stoop 51‑75%; push and pull 26‑50%; climb and squat 0‑25%.
• Physical ability to move objects weighing up to 50 pounds 0‑33%; up to 20 pounds 34‑66%; up to 10 pounds 67‑100% of the time.

• Quantitatively analyze wastewater and sludge samples (at various stages of treatment) using established testing procedures for total and suspended solids, biochemical oxygen demand, grease and oil content, pH, volatile acids and alkalinity.
• Perform replicate analyses and/or analyze in‑house and commercial standard samples to verify analytical methodology yields accurate and reproducible results.
• Calculate results of analyses and apply statistical principles prior to compiling results onto daily report logs documenting compliance with federal, state and local regulations governing discharges to receiving streams.
• Prepare and clean glassware; clean, calibrate and adjust equipment.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and sufficient stock level of chemicals and supplies.
• Handle and store scientific chemicals in oven, hoods, desiccators, and fireproof cabinets.
• Weigh, prepare, mix and standardize chemicals or solutions for the analysis of industrial wastewater and treatment plant process control samples.
• Perform other duties as assigned or as the situation dictates within the scope of this classification.

Any person who meets the qualifications and other requirements described in this posting.

Candidates must provide proof of U.S. citizenship, permanent residence, or authorization to work without sponsorship. The City reserves the right to conduct pre‑employment inquiries or evaluations as deemed appropriate, including verification of employment history, educational attainment, and various background checks and testing. Failure to provide requested information may result in disqualification or revocation of a job offer.

The City does not discriminate on the basis of disability. If you need a disability‑related accommodation during the application or selection process, advise the Human Resources Department at least 48 hours prior to the need by emailing employment.