Laboratory Analyst I/II/III/IV

Salary

HOURLY $28.69 – $47.00

BIWEEKLY $2,294.96 – $3,759.85

MONTHLY $4,972.42 – $8,146.33

ANNUALLY $59,669.00 – $97,756.00

2%  Salary Increase in July 2025

Under supervision, assists in the operation and performance of water, chemical, and bacteriological tests; analyzes and records test results; and assists with a variety of special laboratory projects. Exercises no supervision.

Distinguishing Characteristics

Laboratory Analyst I:

This is the entry level in the class series. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the II level, but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgement in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise. Since this class is often used as a training class, employees may have only limited or no directly related work experience. Exercises no supervision.

Laboratory Analyst II/III/IV

These are the journey levels in the class series. Positions at these levels are distinguished from the I level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise, and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. Positions in this class series are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from lower levels by meeting the minimum requirements, successful performance, budget availability, and management recommendation. When filled from the outside, the employee is required to have prior related experience which allows the employee to meet the qualification standards for the position level.

 

Examples of Duties:

Examples of duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Performs a variety of chemical, bacteriological and biological analysis water and wastewater samples;
• Maintains accurate and thorough records of laboratory procedures and results; ensure compliance with government regulations; prepare analytical reports when necessary;
• Prepares, standardizes, and maintains reasonable stocks of solutions and reagents used in laboratory analysis;
• Cleans, sterilizes, and maintains reasonable stocks of laboratory supplies;
• Collects samples for analysis and maintain samples observing chain of custody and preservation requirements;
• Conducts special analysis and examinations to assist in assessing plant operation and studies;
• Participates in quality control of laboratory procedures and equipment;
• Assists in the overall operation of laboratory activities; and
• Perform related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications:

EDUCATION:

• A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, microbiology, or a related field. For degrees obtained outside of the U.S., an official equivalency evaluation is required.

EXPERIENCE:

Laboratory Analyst I

• Some laboratory chemical and bacteriological or biological testing experience is desirable.

Laboratory II

• Two years of laboratory chemical, bacteriological or biological testing experience.

Laboratory III

• Three years of laboratory chemical, bacteriological or biological testing experience.

Laboratory IV

• Four years of laboratory chemical, bacteriological or biological testing experience.

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATES:

• Possession of, or the ability to obtain, a valid California Driver’s License at the time of appointment.

Laboratory Analyst I

• Possession of a Grade I Water Quality Laboratory Analyst Certificate issued by the California-Nevada Section American Water Works Association or possession of a Grade I Laboratory Analyst Certificate from the California Water Environment Association within one year of appointment.

Laboratory II

• Possession of a Grade II Water Quality Laboratory Analyst Certificate issued by the California-Nevada Section American Water Works Association or possession of a Grade II Laboratory Analyst Certificate from the California Water Environment Association at time of hire.

Laboratory III

• Possession of a Grade III Water Quality Laboratory Analyst Certificate issued by the California-Nevada Section American Water Works Association or possession of a Grade III Laboratory Analyst Certificate from the California Water Environment Association at time of hire.

Laboratory IV

• Possession of a Grade IV Water Quality Laboratory Analyst Certificate issued by the California-Nevada Section American Water Works Association or possession of a Grade IV Laboratory Analyst Certificate from the California Water Environment Association at time of hire.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Essential functions require the following physical abilities and work environment:

• Ability to work in a standard laboratory environment;
• Regularly sit, stand, walk, stoop, reach, bend, and lift up to 40 lbs.;
• Regularly exposure to heat, noise, outdoors, chemicals, toxic substances, foul odors, wastewater, sludge, effluents, bacteria, and viruses;
• Ability to travel to different sites and locations; and
• Must be able to communicate with others and to exchange information accurately.