Laboratory Technician I/II

The City of San Clemente is seeking a qualified individual to serve as a Laboratory Technician I/II in the lab of our wastewater treatment plant. Under higher-level managerial or supervisory staff, this position performs chemical, physical, and microbiological analyses of drinking water, wastewater, storm water, and sludge in support of a wastewater treatment plant. Also collects wastewater and sludge samples as well as prepares records and reports and assists technical manager in state accreditation of the laboratory.
The City of San Clemente reserves the option to hire at either the
Laboratory Technician I ($38.51 - $46.80 hourly range) or II level ($43.49 - $52.86 hourly range)
based on candidate qualifications and selection process.
Scheduled Salary Increases: Effective July 2025 - 3.0% Effective July 2026 - 3.0% Effective July 2027 - 2.5%

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Laboratory Technician I- This is the entry-level classification in the Laboratory Technician series. This class is distinguished from the Laboratory Technician II in that it performs more routine sampling and testing procedures that do not require specialized knowledge of water quality standards and laboratory testing requirements.

Laboratory Technician II - This is the full journey-level class in the Laboratory Technician series. This position possesses a higher level of technical certification and is capable of independently performing a broad range of sampling and analysis; assist the Laboratory Coordinator with internal audits and state assessments; assume responsibility as technical manager in the absence of the Laboratory Coordinator; and train other Utilities staff concerning field monitoring methods.

Essential responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Laboratory Technician I

• Perform routine chemical, physical, and microbiological analyses of water, wastewater, storm water, and industrial water to ensure compliance with federal and state environmental regulations.
• Collect wastewater and sludge samples at various stages of treatment; collect storm water samples when necessary.
• Calibrate electrodes, spectrophotometers and turbidimeters.
• Prepare chemical reagents, stock solutions, and bacteriological media to be used in specific test procedures.
• Record oven and incubator temperatures.
• Take monthly inventory of chemicals, reagents, solutions, and other supplies and equipment related to lab operations.
• Provide data for technical reports on results of analyses conducted.
• Perform data entry and produce standard reports; update and file test records.
• Adhere to safety precautions and quality control procedures.
• Perform related work as required.

Laboratory Technician II

In addition to the Essential Functions of the Laboratory Technician I:

• Perform complex laboratory analysis; conduct microscopic examination of activated sludge.
• Evaluate, interpret, and apply the results of laboratory testing, including use of advanced mathematical calculations and statistics.
• Assist Laboratory Coordinator with internal audits and state assessments; assist in corrective action plans.
• Assume responsibility as technical manager and oversee laboratory operations in the absence of the Laboratory Coordinator.
• Prepare, review, validate, organize and enter into the data system data for completion of monthly, quarterly and annual wastewater discharge and bio-solids reports. Update and file test records.
• Train and provide direction to staff engaged in lab work and enforce quality and safety procedures.
• Develop new methods and techniques of analysis.
• Participate in the preparation of the laboratory budget, and submit budget recommendations; order supplies; process invoices.

Laboratory Technician I:

Knowledge of:

Basic laboratory testing techniques, equipment, terminology, and procedures.
Basic principles and practices of qualitative and quantitative chemistry, mathematics, biology,
physical analysis, and microbiology.
Basic sampling procedures.
Methods of equipment calibration and maintenance.
Microsoft Word and Excel.
Occupational hazards and standard safety practices.

Ability to:

Conduct routine chemical, biological and microbiological tests and analytical procedures.
Make routine mathematical computations.
Operate and maintain laboratory instruments and test equipment.
Use computers and testing software.
Prepare basic test reports.
Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Maintain effective audio/visual discrimination and perception to the degree necessary for the successful performance of assigned duties.

Laboratory Technician II
In addition to the qualifications of the Laboratory Technician I:

Knowledge of:

Federal Environmental Protection Agency and State Department of Health Water and Wastewater Laboratory Standards.
Complex principles and practices of water and wastewater chemistry, microbiology and biology.
Methods of handling, storing and disposal of hazardous chemicals and wastes.
Quality assurance programs as specified by the CDHS/ELAP and other regulatory agencies.
Federal and state codes and regulations involved in water quality and wastewater discharge permits and ELAP certification.
Budgetary practices.
Occupational hazards and standard safety practices, including chemical hygiene plan.

Ability to:

Perform complex testing and analysis procedures and formulate new solutions required by new analytical procedures.
Interface directly with outside contract laboratories, and service and maintenance technicians.
Coordinate process control analyses performed outside normal laboratory hours.
Update and maintain all laboratory records and testing procedures.
Determine appropriate methods for reporting and evaluating test data.
Review data for reporting.
Proceed independently with analyses of Proficiency Test studies to maintain Laboratory certification.
Perform detailed record keeping duties, e.g. process vendor invoices.
Help develop sampling protocols for new unit processes.
Work independently and oversee laboratory in absence of Technical Manager.
Order laboratory supplies to maintain appropriate in-lab inventories of consumables.

Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Lab Technician I:

Experience :

One year of experience performing physical, chemical, biological, and microbiological analyses either in the field or in a classroom setting.

Education :

Equivalent to an Associate of Arts degree or higher in the physical, chemical, biological, or environmental sciences.

Licenses or Certificates:

Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Class C California Driver License.

Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Grade I Laboratory Analyst Certificate from the California Water Environment Association (CWEA) within 18 months of appointment.

Lab Technician II:

Experience :

Two years or more experience performing physical, chemical, biological, and microbiological analyses in a water or wastewater laboratory.

Education :

Equivalent to an Associate of Arts degree or higher in the physical, chemical, biological, or environmental sciences. A Bachelors Degree is preferred.

Licenses or Certificates:

Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Class C California Driver License.

Possession of a valid Grade II Laboratory Analyst certification from the California Water Environment Association (CWEA).

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work Environment :

Work involves working within an indoor office, laboratory environment, water treatment plants, and water operations facilities. Work involves exposure to water, mud, sewage, noise, dust, grease, smoke, fumes, gases, traffic, chemicals, machinery, dirt, vibration head, cold and dampness; exposure to biological hazardous environments. Work may take place in inclement weather conditions. Work takes place at elevated heights on scaffolding and ladders; work takes place within confined spaces, underground, on slippery or uneven surfaces, and around heavy construction equipment.

Physical Requirements :

• Strenuous and manual tasks for prolonged periods of time
• Work involves operating motorized vehicles and heavy equipment.
• Frequent lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling of heavy items.
• Standing, walking or sitting for prolonged periods of time.
• Stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling.
• Manual dexterity to operate a computer keyboard and other office equipment, handle files and documents
• Hearing and speaking to exchange information in person or on the telephone.
• Visual acuity to see/read documents and computer screen and to read instrumentation dials, measuring devices, or other related components.

APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCEDURE All applicants must submit a completed City of San Clemente application form and supplemental questionnaire in order to be considered. Applications will not be accepted by fax or email. Applications must be submitted via the City's web site at All properly completed applications will be reviewed, and the most appropriately qualified individuals will be invited to continue in the selection process. Examinations for the position may consist of any combination of written, performance, or oral exams to evaluate the applicant's skill, training, and experience.
Prior to employment, the prospective candidate must successfully complete a background review, medical examination, including drug screen, and be fingerprinted, all at City expense. If selected, written identification showing entitlement to legally work in the United States will be required. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, or age. In accordance with the ADA, candidates that require accommodation to perform the tasks of this position should contact Human Resources to inform them of the accommodation requested. NOTE: The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute an express or implied contract and any provisions contained herein may be modified or revoked without notice.