Laboratory Technician

Performs responsible technical work performing physical, chemical and bacteriological analyses and sampling of water, wastewater 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 wastewater 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 drivers 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.

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

Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications and pass the examination for this position to be eligible for hire.

Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply immediately. All applicants must complete and submit a City of Spokane employment application online by 4:00 p.m. on the filing cut-off date.

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.

The examination will consist of the below components, with weights assigned as follows:
Multiple-Choice and Computer Skills Simulation 100%

EXAMINATION DETAILS:

This is an online examination and 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.

Multiple-choice examination links with instructions will be emailed prior to 12:00 a.m. Pacific Time on the start date and will expire at 11:59 p.m. on the due date as listed below. Keep in mind that the test link will be emailed from City of Spokane (...).

• Applicants who apply and meet the minimum qualifications between Monday, June 30, 2025, and Monday, July 14, 2025, will test Thursday, July 17, 2025, through Monday, July 21, 2025.

NOTE: You may begin the exam at any time during the test period; however, once you begin, you will have 90 minutes to complete the examination. You may take the exam only once during the open recruitment period.

The examination may include such subjects as:

• Chemistry
• Biology
• Mathematical Reasoning
• Interpersonal Skills
• Computer Literacy
  

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.