Laboratory Technician

City of Spokane; Spokane (WA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Spokane seeks a qualified laboratory professional to perform chemical, biological, and physical analyses of water, biosolids, soils, and industrial discharges. The role involves sampling, maintaining equipment, and supporting regulatory compliance.

The position requires a four-year degree in chemistry, biology, or related lab science, with license and WA certification within a year. Driving is required for field sampling and site visits.

Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in chemistry, biology, or related laboratory science.
• Substitution: Experience in analytical laboratory work or field sampling may fulfill the educational requirement.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and obtain WA certification within one year of appointment.

Responsibilities

• Meet with area industries to collect and sample their discharges to the City's sewer system.
• Conduct physical, chemical and bacteriological analyses and monitoring of influent, effluent, biosolids and soils.
• Instruct waste water operators in proper use of sampling equipment and meters.
• Conduct difficult analyses requiring independent procedural decisions.
• Maintain records and prepare reports.
• Calibrate, operate and maintain laboratory and sampling equipment.
• Develop methods of analysis to meet accreditation or regulatory requirements.
• Possibly select proper laboratory techniques independently.
• Operate an automobile or pickup truck.
• Perform related work as required.

Skills

Biology

Chemistry

Computer Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Mathematics

Education

Bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, or related laboratory science

Driver's license

WA Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I or Operator In Training certification

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Outlook

Job description

Performs responsible technical work performing physical, chemical and bacteriological analyses and sampling of water, waste water treatment chemicals, biosolids, soils and industrial waste.

• Meets with area industries to collect and sample their discharges to the City's sewer system
• Conducts physical, chemical and bacteriological analysis and monitoring of influent, effluent, bio-solids and other processes throughout the treatment plant, and soils associated with land application sites.
• Instructs the waste water operators in the proper use of sampling equipment, and uses Dissolved Oxygen (DO) meters, pH meters, and other required equipment.
• Conducts difficult analyses where independent decisions for proper procedures may be required.
• Maintains related records and files and prepares reports as required.
• Calibrates, operates, and maintains laboratory, sampling and other equipment.
• May be required to develop methods of analysis for analyzing environmental wastes to comply with accreditation or regulatory requirements.
• May require independent action in the selection of proper laboratory technique.
• Operates an automobile or pick-up truck.
• Performs related work as required.

Open Entry Requirements:

• Education: Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in chemistry, biology, or related laboratory science.
• Substitution: Experience in analytical laboratory work or field sampling to fulfill environmental regulatory requirements may be substituted on a year-for-year basis for up to two years of the educational requirement.
• Licenses and Certification: Applicants must possess a valid driver’s license and obtain certification by the Washington State Department of Ecology as a Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I or Operator In Training within one year of appointment.

Lift Requirement:

• Job offer is contingent on passing a lift test.
• Ability to lift and move lab equipment weighing up to 50 lbs.

Applicants must first meet the minimum qualifications to be invited to take the examination. Those who pass the examination will then go on the hiring list. The examination will consist of multiple-choice questions & skills simulation. This is an online examination that will require a computer. If you do not have access to a computer, please notify Civil Service so that one may be provided. Computer reservations can also be made through your local public library. Examination instructions and links will be emailed to qualified applicants on October 28th, 2026. The testing window is October 29th - November 2nd. Please note: The email will come from City of Spokane ([e-mail]).

Multiple Choice:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Computer Skills
• Interpersonal Skills
• Mathematics

Skills Simulation:

The skills simulation exam, an assessment that replicates real job tasks in a virtual environment, will evaluate your ability to use core programs essential to the position.

• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft Outlook

For information on what to expect with the hiring process, a test information guide, and frequently asked questions, please visit our website.

Upon request, at time of application, City of Spokane will provide alternative accessible tests to individuals with disabilities that impair manual, sensory, or speaking skills needed to take the test, unless the test is intended to measure those skills.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity within our organization. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, familial status, genetic information, veteran/military status, or disability status. As a Fair Chance Employer, City of Spokane does not conduct initial background screening for non-public safety positions.