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

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 time of employment, or employment may be terminated.)

Preferred Requirements – Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biological, Physical, or sciences, or a related field, and three (3) years of laboratory work experience in a related area.

Work Environment:

Required physical, lifting, and sensory capabilities are requirements to perform the job successfully. Typical environmental conditions associated with the job.

Lifting Requirements: 

Medium work:  Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

Work Schedule:
This position follows the City’s hybrid work schedule policy as assigned by the Department of Human Resources Commissioner and requires in-person work at City worksites/facilities at least four (4) days per week, with the option to work remotely one (1) day per week, based on eligibility, departmental needs, and supervisor approval. The hybrid work schedule is subject to change at any time to five (5) days in-person work.

It is the policy of the City of Atlanta (“COA”) that qualified individuals with disabilities are not discriminated against because of their disabilities regarding job application procedures, hiring, and other terms and conditions of employment. It is further the policy of the COA to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in all aspects of the employment process. The COA is prepared to modify or adjust the job application process or the job or work environment to make reasonable accommodations to the known physical or mental limitations of the applicant or employee to enable the applicant or employee to be considered for the position he or she desires, to perform the essential functions of the position in question, or to enjoy equal benefits and privileges of employment as are enjoyed by other similarly situated employees without disabilities, unless the accommodation will impose an undue hardship. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact the Human Resources Director for your department.

The City of Atlanta is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, ender identity, marital status, veteran’s status or national origin, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law.  We value and encourage diversity in our workforce.