Water Quality Analyst Assistant (On-site)

Position Description

An online application including response to the supplemental questionnaire must be fully completed for consideration.

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) seeks a Water Quality Analyst Assistant to join our team. This role combines laboratory work and field sampling, conducting microbiological testing on various water sources to ensure water quality standards. Position reports to the microbiology unit supervisor.

About Seattle Public Utilities:

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a Community Centered Utility whose mission is to foster healthy people, environment, and economy by partnering with our community to equitably manage water and waste resources for today and future generations. We deliver high quality, vital services, across four major lines of business: providing water, solid waste, drainage and wastewater services for Seattle residents and businesses. In addition, SPU provides drinking water for 1.5 million regional customers in Seattle and other municipalities. Our customers depend on us to deliver high quality, reliable, and cost-conscious utility services and to achieve the highest benefits possible for every investment we make.

Justice as core principles that guide our work. We actively take steps to dismantle systemic racism and increase service equity. We value diverse life experiences and strive to create a workplace that is welcoming to all. We take steps to be inclusive and equitable in our recruiting, hiring and promotional opportunities.

Why join us?

We know work isn’t only about what you do, it’s also about who you work for and with! SPU provides a fun and family-friendly work environment that supports a work life balance, including:

Family-friendly and multicultural work environment

Generous benefits package

Free public transportation options

City pension plan with employer/employee contributions

Growth potential and advancement opportunities

Job Responsibilities

Sampling:

Collect water samples from watersheds, treatment plants, distribution systems, and customer locations

Perform field tests including chlorine residual and temperature measurements

Use LIMS and handheld scanners for data collection

Laboratory Analysis:

Prepare media, glassware, and laboratory equipment in accordance with established Standard Methods.

Conduct microbiological tests to assess water quality

Operate laboratory equipment (autoclaves, boilers, incubators)

Evaluate test results for compliance with State and Federal drinking water standards

Quality Assurance:

Troubleshoot quality control failures

Recommend corrective actions

Maintain Department of Health laboratory certification

Participate in performance evaluation programs

Team Development:

Train Water Laboratory Technicians

Support weekend and holiday rotation schedule

Please note this job posting is not designed to cover or contain the complete listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change as conditions require.

Qualifications

Experience:

Six months of Water Lab Technician experience

Proficiency in basic computer skills

And

Education (must meet one of the following):

1. Chemistry Track: 36 quarter hours or 24 semesters of college-level chemistry courses
2. Microbiology Track: 30 quarter hours or 20 semester hours of college-level microbiology courses

Note: Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered.

License Requirements: Current Washington State Drivers’ License

Location and Schedule: On-site position at our Water Quality Lab in Seattle, WA (no remote work option)

Full-time, on-site position at our Water Quality Lab in Seattle, WA

Dynamic split schedule: 50% laboratory work, 50% field work

Individual schedules arranged in collaboration with supervisor.

Weekend and holiday rotation required to ensure continuous monitoring

Laboratory Environment:

Modern, well-equipped laboratory setting

Handling and analysis of water samples and potentially hazardous substances

Standing for extended periods during analytical procedures

Adherence to strict safety protocols and use of personal protective equipment (PPE)

Field Work:

Water monitoring from various watercraft

Exposure to diverse outdoor environments in the greater Seattle area

Work in varying weather conditions

Physical Requirements:

Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds of equipment

Good physical stamina for field work and laboratory tasks

Comfortable working on boats and near water bodies

Additional Information

Desired Qualifications:

Proficiency in microbiological testing techniques and water sampling methods

Experience with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and field data collection tools

Knowledge of state and federal drinking water standards and regulations

Ability to interpret test results and troubleshoot quality control issues

Physical capability to work in laboratory and field environments, including on watercraft

Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in a diverse team

Flexibility to work rotating schedules, including weekends and holidays

Commitment to safety protocols and quality assurance practices in a laboratory setting

Alignment with SPU Workplace Expectations and values: Safety, Respect, Diversity, Trust, Humor, Productivity, Integrity, Innovation, and Partnership

The full salary range for this position is

:

$41.29 – $48.01 Hourly

Application Expectation:

An online application including response to the supplemental questionnaire must be fully completed for consideration. Please

DO NOT

attach resumes and cover letters, as they will not be considered in the review of candidate’s qualifications.

Transcript Requirement:

If selected for an interview, you will need to submit unofficial transcripts to

erika.monroe@seattle.gov

to verify your completion of the required chemistry or microbiology coursework.

Pre-

Employment/Pre-Placement Requirements

:

This hiring process involves a background check of conviction and arrest records incompliance with Seattle’s Fair Chance Employment Ordinance, SME 14.17. Applicants will be provided an opportunity to explain or correct background information.

SPU’s safety program requires a pre-employment medical assessment as a condition of employment in this position

Benefits:

The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents. More information about employee benefits is available on the City’s website at:

https://www.seattle.gov/human-resources/benefits/employees-and-covered-family-members/most-employees-plans

Who may apply:

The City of Seattle encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experience. This position is open to all qualified candidates that meet the minimum qualifications. The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed,