Bacteriologist / Analyst

Metro Vancouver; Burnaby; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional governmental organisation in Burnaby seeks a Bacteriologist/Analyst to develop and maintain a quality assurance program and conduct bacteriological analyses of potable and receiving waters. Applicants should have a Bachelor's degree in Microbiology and solid experience in a bacteriological laboratory. The position is full-time and temporary until October 2026, working from Wednesdays to Sundays.

Qualifications

• Graduation from a recognized University in Microbiology with related experience.
• Thorough knowledge of bacteriology laboratory principles and practices.
• Considerable knowledge of pollution control methods for water.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain a quality assurance program for the lab.
• Conduct specialized bacteriological analyses for water quality.
• Perform routine analyses for potable water samples.

Skills

Bacteriological testing methods

Quality control procedures

Field sampling

Communication

Statistical analysis

Education

Bachelor of Science in Microbiology

Tools

Laboratory equipment

Job description

Bacteriologist/Analyst

Position Status: Full-Time Temporary (This position to last not later than October 30, 2026)

Department: Water Services

Employee Group: Teamsters Local 31

Location: Lake City Operations Centre, Burnaby

Salary Range/ Wage Rate: PG T24 $3,077.63 - $3,634.43 bi-weekly (2024 wage rates)

Our Water Services Department is seeking a Bacteriologist/Analyst who will work from Wednesdays to Sundays, maintain quality assurance program and keep accurate records of quality control data, perform routine and non-routine analyses for potable and receiving waters, and wastewater samples.

This role:

• In conjunction with a superior, develops, implements and maintains a quality assurance program for the Bacteriology Laboratory inclusive of designing quality control protocols, evaluating existing laboratory media, methods and equipment against performance requirements, maintaining accurate records of quality control measurements, and testing the analytical precision of technical laboratory staff.
• Assists a superior in the design of and conducts special studies and analytical programs of a complex nature involving bacteriological analyses related to water quality; organizes sampling and testing programs related to research projects; prepares comprehensive written reports on projects and studies; performs complex and unusual analyses which require the application of specialized training in bacteriology.
• Performs routine and non-routine analyses for all the regular Bacteriology Laboratory programs which test potable water samples for coliforms and heterotrophic bacteria and receiving waters for specified indicator organisms.
• Provides specialist advice in bacteriology to superiors as well as to technical staff as requested, writes and maintains an analytical procedures manual for technical staff, assists a superior in preparing statistical analysis of data and may perform routine supervisory duties in a supervisor's absence.
• Reviews literature for proposed new or modified medias, instrumentation and techniques, tests and assesses results, formulates recommendations and prepares reports, and instructs technical staff in changed techniques once approved.
• Performs related work as required.

To be successful, you have:

• Graduation from a recognized University at the Bachelor of Science level in Microbiology and sound related experience in a bacteriological laboratory or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Thorough knowledge of laboratory principles, practices, equipment and techniques used in a bacteriological laboratory.
• Considerable knowledge of the application of bacteriological testing methods and techniques to the maintenance of effective pollution control of drinking and receiving water and sewage treatment.
• Considerable knowledge of accepted quality control procedures and methods related to the work performed.
• Working knowledge of applicable drinking water quality guidelines and the Waste Management Act as it relates to water quality.
• Ability to develop, implement and maintain a quality assurance program for the Bacteriology Laboratory, in conjunction with a superior.
• Ability to assist a superior in the design of and to conduct specialized bacteriological projects.
• Ability to perform complex and unusual bacteriological tests and routine and non-routine analyses for all regular laboratory programs.
• Ability to prepare and maintain accurate working documents, statistical analyses and comprehensive technical reports and to write and maintain a procedures manual for technical staff.
• Ability to test, evaluate and make recommendations on laboratory medias, instrumentation and techniques.
• Ability to provide specialist advice to superiors and technical staff as requested, to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external contacts, and to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work towards assigned objectives with a minimum of supervision.
• Ability to enter and retrieve computerized data and perform non-complex programming and data manipulation functions.
• Ability to perform field sampling work.
• Skill in the use of and care of sensitive laboratory equipment.
• Valid Driver's Licence for B.C.

Our Vision:

Metro Vancouver embraces collaboration and innovation in providing sustainable regional services that contribute to a livable and resilient region and a healthy natural environment for current and future generations.

Metro Vancouver employees proudly serve the region and demonstrate the behaviours and attributes of six leadership competencies: Accountability, Adaptability, Building and Nurturing Relationships, Communication, Continuous Learning, and Strategic Thinking and Action.

At Metro Vancouver, we are committed to cultivating a diverse, safe, equitable, and inclusive work environment for all. We strive to attract and retain a talented, diverse workforce that is reflective of the region we serve. If an accommodation is required during the recruitment and selection process, please contact [e-mail] for support. Learn more about our commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion here.

Please follow this link https://metrovancouver.org/about-us/careers to our Careers page where you can submit your application by February 25, 2026.