Temporary Laboratory Services Quality Analyst

City of Cedar Rapids; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Cedar Rapids seeks a Temporary Lab Services Water Quality Analyst to assist with water sample analysis, data entry, and lab procedures supporting environmental monitoring and regulatory compliance.

This role offers hands-on experience in environmental science and contributes to protecting community water quality, with a 7:00am–3:30pm weekday schedule and no sponsorship for employment authorization.

Qualifications

• Requires two years of post-secondary education in chemistry, biology, or general science and at least one year of analytical lab experience.
• Equivalent mix of education and experience acceptable.

Responsibilities

• Participates in sampling assignments, delivering samples to the lab for processing.
• Performs analytical determinations, measurements and bacteriological assays.
• Maintains calibration of on-line process analyzers.
• Prepares reagents/standards and culture media.
• Enters daily data into LIMS and maintains QA/QC records.
• Supports safety practices and housekeeping in the lab.

Skills

Analytical laboratory procedures

Water quality analyses

Education

Post-secondary education in chemistry/biology

Equivalent education/experience

Tools

LIMS

Laboratory instrumentation

Job description

Are you passionate about protecting water quality and working in a lab environment? The Water Pollution Control Facility is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Temporary Lab Services Water Quality Analystto join our team. In this role, you'll assist with water sample analysis, data entry, and lab procedures that support environmental monitoring and regulatory compliance.

This is a great opportunity to gain hands‑on experience in environmental science while making a meaningful impact on the health of our community’s waterways.

About our Organization

At the City, we are committed to employing individuals who reflect our community’s diverse backgrounds and this position is crucial in the success and strategic direction of a growing and evolving community. We appreciate and leverage the vast experience individuals bring beyond the technical requirements of a job. If you are an individual with similar experience listed here. Experience and skills combined with commitment to our core values is key to building a greater community now and for the next generation.

About our Community

Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Cedar Rapids is our vibrant and diverse community known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Our city has a strong sense of community which can be seen at any of our numerous parks, recreational opportunities, and family-friendly events year round. You can also explore our thriving downtown district, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, or take a stroll along the Cedar River, which runs through the heart of the city.

Cedar Rapids - Why you should live here!

About this Opportunity

Provides environmental monitoring and analytical services to sustain the continuity of water quality programs at the wastewater and drinking water treatment facilities. Work is performed under general supervision, with the ability to exercise discretion in selection of work method and schedule.

The City of Cedar Rapids does not offer sponsorship for employment authorization.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Participates in sampling program assignments which consists of manual collection of samples from specified point sources and samples delivery to the designated laboratory for processing;
• Performs a variety of analytical determinations, physical measurements and bacteriological assays;
• Utilizes laboratory instrumentation and other equipment as related to work assignments;
• Calibrates and maintains on-line process analyzers;
• Prepares chemical reagents/standards and bacteriological media;
• Keeps and maintains work records pertaining to respective assignments and related QA/QC protocols;
• Enters daily data pertaining to work assignments into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS);
• Performs peer review of fellow analyst analytical data output;
• Participates in training and cross training activities and related practices;
• Communicates shortages of laboratory supplies to the Laboratory Services Manager;
• Documents and reports to the Laboratory Services Manager unusual problems and/or safety issues encountered on any work;
• Performs housekeeping tasks as assigned;
• Adheres to work schedule, assignments and analytical procedures and related protocols;
• Performs all work duties and activities in accordance with City policies and follow established rules and regulations;
• Adheres to prescribed safety practices, wears and properly uses safety equipment including personal protective and gas detection equipment;
• Participates in staff meetings and training sessions;
• Attends work regularly at the designated place and time;
• Supports continuous process improvement initiatives;
• Performs related work as required.

Acceptable Experience and Training

• Two years of post High School education in chemistry, biology or general science and a minimum of one year experience in analytical laboratory procedures preferably in the field of water quality analyses;
• OR;
• An equivalent combination of education and/or experience (i.e., one year of relevant experience may substitute for one year of education)

Required Special Qualifications

• Valid Drivers License

Work Schedule

• 7:00am to 3:30pm Monday - Friday