Process Laboratory Specialist

About the Role

The Process Lab Specialist will be responsible for ensuring all permit‑required testing and monitoring of the plant’s processes and combined sewer overflow (CSO) facilities are completed correctly and in a timely fashion in a dynamic environment. The role includes notifying process and operations staff of unusual test results or sample conditions, responding to CSO events and other emergent work, recommending sample scheduling and staffing, and participating in team meetings.

The candidate will cross‑train on all laboratory instrumentation and fill in for other staff as needed.

• Perform a variety of chemical, biochemical, or physical analyses following standard laboratory procedures.
• Prepare reagents and standards, and follow established disposal procedures.
• Monitor control charts and quality control samples (blanks, check standards, duplicates) to maintain test integrity.
• Collect samples and operate a motorized vehicle to travel to remote work locations or locations with no public transportation services.
• Clean, maintain, and perform routine servicing of specific field equipment; assist with calibration of online instruments.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Knowledge of field and laboratory techniques and sampling methods typically obtained in an associate of science degree or two years of college‑level science coursework, including at least one year of chemistry, or two years of equivalent experience applicable to a wastewater treatment laboratory.
• Working knowledge of the application and use of test equipment and instruments; ability to troubleshoot instrumentation and methodological problems.
• Knowledge of scientific theories, principles, and relevant mathematics.
• Basic knowledge and skills in laboratory quality assurance/quality control.
• Basic computer skills for spreadsheets, databases, and word processing; skill in working with detailed information.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with a diverse group of individuals; skill in team consensus building techniques and principles and working in a team environment.

• Action Oriented – identifies and seizes new opportunities; displays a can‑do attitude; steps up to handle tough issues.
• Optimizes Work Processes – knows the most effective and efficient processes to get things done, with a focus on continuous improvement.
• Manages Conflict – handles conflict situations effectively, with minimal noise.
• Values Differences – recognizes the value that different perspectives and cultures bring to an organization.
• Communicates Effectively – develops and delivers multi‑mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences.

• A valid Washington State Driver’s License.

• Prior experience in a production lab and/or wastewater lab.
• Ability to achieve a Washington State Wastewater Operator Group I certification level.

• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs.

• Working in a wastewater treatment laboratory with chemicals, noise, confined spaces, and viral contaminants.

• Work Location: West Point Treatment Plant – 1400 Discovery Park Blvd, Seattle, WA 98199.
• Work Schedule: Full‑time, 40‑hour work week subject to business needs; may require weekends, holidays, evening or standby shifts.
• Union Representation: S.E.I.U. L925 (Wastewater Treatment Division).

King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer. No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class. Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including recruitment, hiring, selection, training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, pay, and other compensation.