Laboratory Analyst I/II

Napa Sanitation District; Napa (CA); On-site; USD 66,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Napa Sanitation District in Napa, California is seeking a Laboratory Analyst I or II to perform routine and advanced water testing, data management, and QC in our wastewater laboratory. This flexibly staffed role offers a clear path for advancement based on experience and certifications.

You will collect samples from the treatment facility, operate laboratory instruments, prepare reagents, and ensure regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• Education: Associate degree in chemistry, microbiology, or closely related physical science; bachelor's degree desirable.
• Experience: Analyst I – no prior experience required; Analyst II – three years in water/wastewater testing.

Responsibilities

• Schedule, perform, and interpret physical, chemical, and bacteriological tests on wastewater and recycled water samples.
• Collect water samples from facility and field, including boat operations for field sampling.
• Set up, calibrate, and maintain laboratory equipment and instruments.
• Prepare and standardize chemical reagents and sterilize media.
• Enter and manage water quality data in LIMS.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.

Skills

Microsoft Office

LIMS familiarity

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Communication

Physical stamina

Boat operation (willingness)

Judgment & tact

Education

Associate degree in chemistry or microbiology

Bachelor's degree desirable

Tools

LIMS

Excel

Outlook

Word

Job description

Ready to take your career to the next level in a wastewater laboratory?

NapaSan is now hiring for a Laboratory Analyst (Laboratory Analyst I/II)

Deadline to apply: October 13, 2026, 5:00 PM

Are you ready to make a real impact on environmental safety and engage in dynamic, hands-on work? If you're a team-oriented individual with a sharp eye for detail, eager to dive into lab testing, we want to hear from you! We are seeking to fill one vacant position as either a Laboratory Analyst I or Laboratory Analyst II (flexibly staffed) depending upon qualifications.

Location: Napa, California
Schedule: Rotating Schedule (some weekends required)
Salary: $47.91 to $65.10 DOQ

Why Join Us?

• Career Growth: Clear path for advancement from Laboratory Analyst I to II based on experience, certifications, and performance.
• Impactful Work: Play a crucial role in testing and monitoring surface water, groundwater, wastewater, and recycled water to protect public health and the environment.
• Collaborative Environment: Work under the direction of the Regulatory Compliance Manager alongside experienced professionals, with hands-on training and development opportunities.
• Competitive Compensation: Attractive pay and benefits, with opportunities for emergency standby, overtime, and weekend work.

Key Responsibilities:

As a Laboratory Analyst I or II, your role will include, but is not limited to:

• Scheduling, performing, and interpreting physical, chemical, and bacteriological tests on wastewater and recycled water samples
• Collecting water samples from the treatment facility and in the field, including operating a boat for field sampling
• Setting up, calibrating, operating, and maintaining laboratory equipment and instruments
• Preparing and standardizing chemical reagents and sterilizing bacteriological media
• Compiling, entering, and maintaining water quality data in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)
• Identifying analytical problems and recommending or implementing corrective action
• Ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local sampling, testing, and recordkeeping regulations
• Performing quality control and quality assurance work in accordance with California Department of Health Services Environmental Laboratory Accreditation standards
• Maintaining inventories of lab chemicals, equipment, and supplies, and keeping the laboratory clean and orderly
• Assisting with research, process improvements, and updates to procedures and documentation
• Staying current on developments in the water quality field through journals, training, and seminars

Qualifications:

• Education: Equivalent to an associate degree with major coursework in chemistry, microbiology, or a closely related physical science. A bachelor's degree is highly desirable.
• Experience:
  • Laboratory Analyst I: No prior experience required.
  • Laboratory Analyst II: Three (3) years of progressively responsible experience performing testing and analysis duties within a water or wastewater treatment plant laboratory.
• License/Certifications:
  • Must possess a valid California Class C Driver's License and maintain a satisfactory driving record.
  • Laboratory Analyst I: Must possess a California Water Environment Association Grade I Laboratory Analyst Certificate, or the ability to obtain one within twelve (12) months of appointment.
  • Laboratory Analyst II: Must possess a California Water Environment Association Grade II Laboratory Analyst Certificate.

Skills & Abilities:

• Computer: Proficiency with Microsoft Office Products (primarily Outlook, Word, Excel) and comfort learning specialized laboratory software (LIMS)
• Physical requirements:
  • Ability to climb stairs and ladders
  • Bend, stoop, kneel, and stand for extended periods
  • Work on uneven terrain
  • Lift, carry, push, and pull materials weighing up to 50 pounds
  • Work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including cold, heat, and inclement weather
• Vision: Ability to detect shades of color and read printed materials and computer screens
• Hearing and speech: Ability to communicate effectively in person and over the telephone
• Laboratory and quality control: Ability to perform laboratory work, quality control, and quality assurance evaluation in accordance with state accreditation standards
• Boat operation: Willingness to ride in and help operate a boat to collect field samples (no prior boating experience required)
• Judgment & communication: Sound independent judgment, tact, and the ability to establish effective working relationships with District staff, contractors, and the public

Environmental Conditions:

Work is performed in a laboratory and field setting where employees may be exposed to potentially toxic chemicals, loud noise, temperature extremes, road hazards, and other physical or mechanical hazards. Occasional unusual shifts, weekends, and holiday work may be required.

Join Our Team Today!

If you have the experience and passion to contribute to the essential work of protecting water quality, we want to hear from you! This position offers a rewarding career path with plenty of room for growth, whether you're just starting out as a Laboratory Analyst I or bringing three-plus years of experience as a Laboratory Analyst II. Join us and help protect our environment while advancing your professional growth!