Laboratory Analyst I/II

Napa Sanitation District • Napa, CA

2d • $48 - $65 • Hybrid

About The Position

NapaSan is seeking to fill one vacant position as either a Laboratory Analyst I or Laboratory Analyst II (flexibly staffed) depending upon qualifications. This role involves dynamic, hands-on work in a wastewater laboratory, playing a crucial role in testing and monitoring surface water, groundwater, wastewater, and recycled water to protect public health and the environment. The position offers a clear path for advancement and a collaborative environment with opportunities for hands-on training and development.

Requirements

• Equivalent to an associate degree with major coursework in chemistry, microbiology, or a closely related physical science.
• Laboratory Analyst I: No prior experience required.
• Laboratory Analyst II: Three (3) years of progressively responsible experience performing testing and analysis duties within a water or wastewater treatment plant laboratory.
• Must possess a valid California Class C Driver's License and maintain a satisfactory driving record.
• Laboratory Analyst I: Must possess a California Water Environment Association Grade I Laboratory Analyst Certificate, or the ability to obtain one within twelve (12) months of appointment.
• Laboratory Analyst II: Must possess a California Water Environment Association Grade II Laboratory Analyst Certificate.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Products (primarily Outlook, Word, Excel) and comfort learning specialized laboratory software (LIMS)
• Ability to climb stairs and ladders
• Bend, stoop, kneel, and stand for extended periods
• Work on uneven terrain
• Lift, carry, push, and pull materials weighing up to 50 pounds
• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including cold, heat, and inclement weather
• Vision: Ability to detect shades of color and read printed materials and computer screens
• Hearing and speech: Ability to communicate effectively in person and over the telephone
• Laboratory and quality control: Ability to perform laboratory work, quality control, and quality assurance evaluation in accordance with state accreditation standards
• Willingness to ride in and help operate a boat to collect field samples (no prior boating experience required)
• Sound independent judgment, tact, and the ability to establish effective working relationships with District staff, contractors, and the public

Nice To Haves

• A bachelor's degree is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Scheduling, performing, and interpreting physical, chemical, and bacteriological tests on wastewater and recycled water samples
• Collecting water samples from the treatment facility and in the field, including operating a boat for field sampling
• Setting up, calibrating, operating, and maintaining laboratory equipment and instruments
• Preparing and standardizing chemical reagents and sterilizing bacteriological media
• Compiling, entering, and maintaining water quality data in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)
• Identifying analytical problems and recommending or implementing corrective action
• Ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local sampling, testing, and recordkeeping regulations
• Performing quality control and quality assurance work in accordance with California Department of Health Services Environmental Laboratory Accreditation standards
• Maintaining inventories of lab chemicals, equipment, and supplies, and keeping the laboratory clean and orderly
• Assisting with research, process improvements, and updates to procedures and documentation
• Staying current on developments in the water quality field through journals, training, and seminars

Benefits

• Attractive pay and benefits
• Opportunities for emergency standby, overtime, and weekend work
• Career Growth: Clear path for advancement from Laboratory Analyst I to II based on experience, certifications, and performance.
• Collaborative Environment: Work under the direction of the Regulatory Compliance Manager alongside experienced professionals, with hands-on training and development opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree