DWM Laboratory Technician - Wastewater Lab (Office of Watershed Protection)

Posting expires: October 23, 2025

Salary range: $44,286.17 - $55,357.71

General Description and Classification Standards:

The Senior Wastewater Laboratory Technician is responsible for overseeing laboratory operations to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and operational goals related to wastewater treatment. This position involves performing a variety of analytical tests and preparing reports. Occasionally, they will also be asked to respond to after-hours events to analyze water samples and will be required to work approximately one weekend a month. Additionally, this position conducts various analyses to ensure wastewater treatment effectiveness and compliance with wastewater regulations. Applies knowledge related to standard laboratory methods, practices, procedures, policies, and regulations, utilizing laboratory materials and equipment. This is an experienced, skilled, or technical level capable of carrying out most assignments typical of the position or specialty with limited guidance or review. This level would be considered a promotional level and attainable by any incumbent in a work group who demonstrates the necessary knowledge, ability, and performance and could function as a lead or sole technician within the work group.

Supervision Received:

Works under minimal supervision. May assist in training, orienting, or observing lower-level associates, apprentices, or semi-skilled employees in the group.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

These are typical responsibilities for this position and should not be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive.

• Performs biological, chemical, or physical analyses of water and wastewater samples under the direction of professional staff, including but not limited to pH, Chlorine, Hardness, Alkalinity, temperature, Total Organic Carbon, Metals, Turbidity, Total Suspended Solids, Bacterial presence/absence, etc.
• Wears necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and follows all safety rules.
• Perform tasks with integrity while working under minimal supervision.
• Operates, adjusts, and maintains scientific instruments, including but not limited to pH meters, spectrophotometers, analytical balances, autoclaves, incubators, etc.
• Prepares chemical reagents and biological media according to formulae; assumes responsibility for accuracy in preparation and standardization.
• Maintains detailed and accurate records using the chain of custody documentation and LIMS software and assumes responsibility for samples and specimens that may be involved in court action.
• Performs detailed record-keeping and documentation of work activities and sample information.
• Calibrate bench equipment, record temperatures, and perform maintenance checks on laboratory equipment.
• Communicate effectively verbally and in writing with coworkers and other departments.
• Monitors and maintain inventory of laboratory supplies.
• May perform other duties as assigned.
• Stays current with laboratory best practices and methods. 
• Must obtain a State of Georgia Wastewater Analyst license within one year and maintain the license by obtaining Continuing Education.

The above statements reflect the general duties, responsibilities, and competencies considered necessary to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of the job and should not be considered as a detailed description of all the work requirements of the position. COA may change the specific job duties with or without prior notice based on the needs of the organization.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

This is a partial listing of the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the job successfully; it is not an exhaustive list.

• Knowledge of laboratory tests and analyses.
• Skill in operating a computer and computer software.
• Ability to handle samples and laboratory equipment.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education and Experience - Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biological, Physical, or sciences, or a related field. One (1) year of laboratory work experience in a related area.

Licensures and Certifications – Valid State-Issued Driver’s License. Wastewater Laboratory Analyst License and Drinking Water License, desirable.(License must be obtained within 12 months of hire if not held at ti