City of Tracy
Laboratory Technician I/II
ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY
The City of Tracy is seeking a dedicated and motivated individual to join the organization as a Laboratory Technician I/II. This opportunity is ideal for someone who brings not only strong technical capability but also exceptional character and professionalism. The ideal candidate will demonstrate high integrity, strong ethical standards, and a commitment to accurate, responsible laboratory practices. They will value teamwork, communicate effectively, and contribute positively to a collaborative work environment. An open-minded approach, willingness to learn, and adaptability to evolving processes are essential, along with a goal-oriented mindset and the drive to grow within the organization. Highly qualified applicants will have experience working in commercial or public agency laboratories, particularly in areas such as environmental testing, water or wastewater analysis, and quality assurance procedures. This role offers the chance to make a meaningful impact while building a long-term career with a supportive and mission-driven public agency.
KNOWLEDGE OF
- Chemical, biological, and physical characteristics of various environmental matrices including water and wastewater.
- Principles, practices, techniques, equipment, and materials required for basic chemical, biochemical, biological, microbiological, and physical analysis of samples of potable water and wastewater.
- Sampling techniques and related statistical analysis techniques.
- Laboratory and wastewater plant safety procedures and equipment.
- Basic principles of water and wastewater treatment and distribution/disposal.
- Record-keeping principles and procedures.
- Principles and practices of data collection, analysis, and report preparation.
- Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.
- The structure and content of the English language to perform the work.
- Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination.
- Computers and software programs (e.g., Microsoft software packages) to conduct, compile, and/or generate documentation.
ABILITY TO
- Perform basic chemical, biochemical, biological, microbiological, and physical analyses of various matrices including potable water and wastewater.
- Make appropriate recommendations for the laboratory, plant or drinking water operations based on results of laboratory analyses.
- Research, analyze, and summarize data, and prepare and present accurate and reliable reports containing findings and recommendations.
- Organize, maintain, and update database and records systems.
- Make accurate basic chemical, arithmetic, and statistical computations.
- Maintain attention to detail and accuracy.
- Identify and take appropriate action when operating problems occur.
- Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed.
- Learn and understand the organization and operation of the City and of outside agencies as necessary to assume assigned responsibilities.
- Independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.
- Effectively use computer systems, software applications, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
- Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
- Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.
- Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:
Laboratory Technician I: Equivalent to graduation from the twelfth (12th) grade, supplemented by specialized training or college level course work in chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology or related sciences and two (2) years of experience performing chemical or bacteriological tests in a laboratory or treatment plant.
Laboratory Technician II: Equivalent to graduation from the twelfth (12th) grade, supplemented by specialized training or college level course work in chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology or related sciences and four (4) years of experience performing chemical or bacteriological tests in a laboratory or treatment plant.
LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS
- Possession of, or the ability to obtain, a valid California Class C driver’s license upon appointment.
- May be required to complete National Incident Management System (NIMS) Training.
Laboratory Technician I: Possession of a Grade I Laboratory Analyst certification issued by the California Water Environment Association (CWEA) within two (2) years of appointment.
Laboratory Technician II: Possession of a Grade II Laboratory Analyst certification issued by the CWEA upon appointment.