Drinking Water Laboratory Technician

City of Flagstaff, AZ; Flagstaff (AZ); On-site; USD 47,000 - 71,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Arizona State Retirement System match

Health, dental and vision insurance

Deferred compensation options

Paid holidays and leave

Job summary

City of Flagstaff is seeking a Laboratory Technician to collect water samples and perform physical, chemical, and microbiological testing to ensure safe drinking water.

The role requires attention to detail, ability to work independently in lab and field settings, and dedication to public service. Compensation includes ASRS retirement, health/dental/vision coverage, paid leave, and a comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• One year of experience and/or training in a Lab setting.
• Possession of, or the ability to obtain, ADEQ Class 1 Wastewater Treatment or Water Treatment Certification within probationary period (not to exceed one year).

Responsibilities

• Collect water samples from the distribution system, treatment plants, industries, wells, and springs for analysis.
• Log in and process water, wastewater, and solid samples, or prepare them for shipment to a commercial laboratory.
• Develop and update SOPs in accordance with laboratory standard methods.
• Perform analytical testing per approved City SOPs.
• Conduct daily equipment temperature and maintenance checks.
• Perform sampling for other sections as needed; conduct monthly, quarterly, and annual QA/QC checks.
• Clean lab, glassware, and equipment; respond to customer complaints.
• May assist in plant operations and maintenance; safely operate a vehicle in job-related duties.

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Join the City of Flagstaff's Water Services team as a Laboratory Technician and play a vital role in ensuring the safety and quality of our community's drinking water. In this important position, you will collect water samples throughout the distribution system and perform physical, chemical, and microbiological testing to help maintain compliance with state and federal drinking water regulations.

As a Laboratory Technician, you will contribute to the reliable operation of the City's water system through accurate analysis, detailed recordkeeping, and a commitment to safe laboratory practices. This role requires a strong attention to detail, the ability to work independently in both laboratory and field environments, and a dedication to providing excellent service to internal and external customers. If you are passionate about science, public service, and protecting community health, we encourage you to apply and become part of a team committed to delivering safe, high-quality drinking water to the residents of Flagstaff.

• Provides excellent customer service to both internal and external customers, by answering questions/providing assistance and directing customers to the appropriate party in a timely manner.
• Using proper sampling, collection, and analytical techniques, collects samples from the drinking water distribution system, treatment plants, industries, wells, and spring sources for analysis.
• Logs in and processes water, wastewater, and solid samples, or prepares them for shipment to a commercial laboratory.
• Develops and updates SOPs in accordance with laboratory standard methods.
• Performs analytical testing in accordance with the SOPs of the approved City of Flagstaff laboratories.
• Performs daily equipment temperature and maintenance checks.
• Performs sampling as needed for other sections. Performs monthly, quarterly, and annual QA/QC checks.
• Cleans Lab, glassware, and equipment.
• Responds to customer complaints.
• May assist in plant operations and maintenance.
• Safely operates a vehicle in the performance of job-related duties.

• Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• High school diploma or G.E.D.
• One year of experience and or training in a Lab setting.
• A valid driver’s license.
• A combination of relevant education and relevant experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis. Minimum requirements such as supervisory experience, driver's license, and certifications may not be substituted and are required at time of hire. The required one (1) year of lab work experience must be met through either through full-time lab employment/training, part-time equivalent hours, or through a bachelor’s degree in a related field.

DESIRED EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING

• Three years of demonstrable knowledge, experience and or training.
• Knowledge of chemical and microbiological principles and practices; techniques, equipment, and terminology used in a chemical and/or microbiological laboratory; chemicals, safety precautions, and equipment used in environmental, water and wastewater facilities.
• Understanding of OSHA regulations as they apply to safe use of hazardous chemicals in the laboratory.
• Familiarity with software pertinent to laboratory equipment and data reporting.
• Basic knowledge of calibration, operation, and maintenance of specialized laboratory equipment.
• Basic knowledge of the principles, practices, materials, and equipment used in drinking water filtration, treatment and distribution.
• Basic knowledge of the principles, practices, materials, and equipment used in wastewater treatment and collections.
• Basic knowledge of the Safe Drinking Water Act and Clean Water Act.
• College level coursework in chemistry, biology, or other sciences.
• Experience and/or training in chemistry and/or microbiology specifically as it relates to drinking water and/or wastewater compliance testing.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Possession of, or the ability to obtain, ADEQ Class 1 Wastewater Treatment or Water Treatment Certification, within probationary period, not to exceed one year.

• Must possess, or obtain upon employment, a valid Arizona driver’s license.
• Regular attendance is an essential function of this job to ensure continuity.
• Ability to work in inclement weather and perform work requiring heavy physical exertion.
• May have to work holidays and weekends.

We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and positive work environment. We offer competitive pay, outstanding benefits, and the chance to work with a committed team making a difference in our community. Located in the beautiful mountain town of Flagstaff, AZ, you’ll enjoy a unique quality of life with outdoor recreation, stunning scenery and a welcoming community.

Our total compensation package includes best-in-class benefits and an annual salary of $47,049.60 - $70,574.40, based on the candidate's qualifications and experience. Plus:

• Arizona State Retirement System with 100% Match
• Employees are members of Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) with a mandatory contribution rate of approximately 12%
• Deferred Compensation Options
• Up to 4% Annual Pay for Performance Increase
• Group Insurance including Health, Dental and Vision coverage
• Flexible & Health Savings Accounts
• 13 Paid Holidays, Vacation, Sick Leave, Personal Leave, Paid Parental Leave, Bereavement, Jury Duty
• Life Insurance, AD&D, Short- and Long-Term Disability and Voluntary Life Insurance
• First-Time Homebuyer Assistance
• Qualified Public Student Loan Forgiveness Employer
• Tuition Assistance
• Employee Clinic, Telehealth, Wellness Program & Incentives
• Tobacco Cessation Program
• Employer Assistance Program
• Recognition includingWorkiversary, Wonderful Outstanding Worker (WOW), On-the-Spot, 7k Award, and City Manager's Excellence Awards
• Employee Discounts:MountainLine Bus Eco Pass, Aquaplex, and Recreation Centers

Please note that Compensation and Benefits are subject to change based on future policy change, budgetary impact, and Council changes.

The City of Flagstaff is looking for team members who are passionate about community, innovation, and quality of life. Come be a part of this cool community and see why the City of Flagstaff is a great place to work!