WWTP Laboratory Analyst

City of Lincolnton; Lincolnton (NC); On-site; USD 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Lincolnton is seeking a Laboratory Technician to perform advanced laboratory work overseeing all wastewater testing, reporting, and QA/QC duties in the treatment plant.

The role requires handling bacteriological and chemical analyses, maintaining certifications, and coordinating with the Wastewater Treatment Plant Superintendent to ensure safe, compliant operations.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in chemistry, environmental science, biology, or related field.
• Six or more years of municipal wastewater lab experience preferred.
• Valid North Carolina driver’s license or ability to obtain.
• Wastewater Pollution Control System Operator Grade I or ability to obtain within 18 months of hire.

Responsibilities

• Conduct standard laboratory tests on wastewater and by-products.
• Maintain records and QA/QC programs; prepare reports for regulatory compliance.
• Oversee lab certification and regular calibrations.
• Assist in pretreatment program and emergency/shower testing.
• Operate department software and maintain lab equipment.

Skills

Laboratory testing

QA/QC program

NPDES reporting

Bacteriological testing

Hazardous chemical safety

Education

Associate’s degree in chemistry, environmental science, biology, or related field

Tools

Laboratory software

Lab equipment

Job description

Attachments Must Be In PDF Format

Open Until Filled or October 30, 2026, whichever comes first

This position is first shift working Monday - Friday with on-call opportunities.

Primary Reason Why Classification Exists

To perform difficult technical laboratory chemistry work and oversee all laboratory functions in the wastewater treatment plant necessary for the monitoring of municipal wastewater operations.

Distinguishing Features of the Class

An employee in this class is responsible for performing a variety of standardized laboratory tests and analysis of wastewater, industrial wastes, and by-products of the treatment processes. Work includes providing reliable analytical data for reporting NPDES requirements, assessing plant operations, helping to identify plant problems and solutions, setting up viable sampling points, maintaining accurate records and quality control, assisting in meeting and maintaining efficient and consistent plant operations, and assisting in providing safe wastewater treatment. Employee performs bacteriological testing, chemical testing, and technical laboratory clerical work. Position may be designated as the primary back-up ORC at the discretion of the Wastewater Treatment Plan Superintendent, and in accordance with NCDENR and DWR regulations. Position may also assist with pretreatment program. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Wastewater Treatment Plant Superintendent and is evaluated on the basis of productivity, accuracy of analyses and reports, and overall review of test results.

• Supervises and performs testing and sampling for NPDES required parameters; processes control, Vector Attraction and Reduction (Land Application of Sludge) and Aquatic Toxicity
• Supervises WWTP staff that may perform analytical testing in the laboratory
• Maintains WWTP Lab Certification and QA/QC program requirements (DMRQA, Annual Thermometer Calibration, TSS/TS Drying time verification, Fume Hood Certification, Pipettor Certification, Conductivity Cell Constant Verification, Consumable Comparisons, Balance Weights Verification, annual updates of SOP and CHP, Duplicates, Spikes, Blanks, etc.)
• Prepares various reports in accordance with Federal, State, and local requirements and maintains records
• Analyzes results for accuracy, validity and consistency
• Attends meetings pertaining to the WWTP as required
• Performs on-call and fill in duties as needed for other positions within the plant
• Requisitions and maintains chemicals, equipment and supplies
• Tests and documents emergency shower/eyewash testing for Laboratory and Chemical Feed building
• Use of department’s software programs as related to division’s tasks.
• Performs maintenance, cleaning, and minor repair on lab equipment
• Performs related work as required

• Thorough knowledge of modern analytical laboratory techniques, materials, and equipment, including those used in standard chemical and biochemical analysis of wastewater
• Thorough knowledge of the processes and treatment stages involved in wastewater treatment
• Thorough knowledge of safe handling of hazardous chemicals
• Comprehensive knowledge of State and Federal regulations related to wastewater laboratory operations

• Ability to prepare reagents and assemble laboratory apparatus for chemical and biochemical analysis
• Ability to perform analytical testing to standards set by State and Federal regulations
• Ability to use laboratory and related equipment and to compute and record test results
• Ability to prepare reports and keep accurate records in an easily accessible system
• Ability to interpret laboratory test results and consult with/advise as to process control changes needed
• Ability to use technology resources as assigned and implemented.
• Ability to train others in lab procedures
• Skill in time management, organization, analytical reasoning, troubleshooting and attention to detail

Physical Requirements

Work in this position is medium work exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Physical requirements include climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping feeling, talking, hearing and repetitive motions. Employee must have the visual acuity to prepare and analyze data and figures, operate a computer terminal, and use measurement devices.

Working Conditions

This employee is subject to inside and outside environmental conditions. Employee is subject to workplace hazards including electrical current, flames from burners, acids, ammonia, chlorine, and other hazardous substances and chemicals found in wastewater laboratory setting. Employee is subject to atmospheric conditions such as fumes, odors, dusts, mists, gases, or poor ventilation and may be required to wear protective clothing and body shields for protection. Employee may work in close quarters which could cause claustrophobia.

Education

An Associate’s degree in chemistry, Environmental Science, biology, or other related science field.

Experience

Six (6) or more years’ laboratory work experience in a municipal water or wastewater plant environment is preferred.

Special Requirements

• Valid North Carolina drivers’ license
• Wastewater Pollution Control System Operator Grade I or ability to obtain within 18 months of hire

FLSA Status

Non-exempt

Disclaimer

This classification specification has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees to perform the job. The City of Lincolnton reserves the right to assign or otherwise modify the duties assigned to this classification.