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City of Atlanta

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

City of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, United States, 30383

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Overview DWM Laboratory Technician - Drinking Lab (Office of Watershed Protection) – City of Atlanta

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

Posting expires: October 23, 2025

General Description and Classification Standards: The Senior Drinking Water Laboratory Technician oversees operations to ensure compliance with regulations and operational goals. They perform water sampling, conduct analytical tests, and prepare reports. They may be asked to respond in water emergencies to collect and analyze water samples. This position conducts various tests to ensure water treatment effectiveness and compliance with drinking water 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. It could be the only position in this specialty in a work group or could be part of a general or specialized work team.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Performs biological, chemical, or physical analysis and determinations of water samples (e.g., pH, chlorine, hardness, alkalinity, temperature, Total Organic Carbon, metals, turbidity, Total Suspended Solids, bacterial presence/absence).

Performs field work including water sample collection, field testing, fire hydrant operation, and may consult with water customers regarding water quality issues. Significant driving within the metro Atlanta area is expected.

Rotate between laboratory and field assignments.

Wears necessary Personal Protective Equipment and follows safety rules.

Operate, adjust, and maintain scientific instruments (e.g., pH meters, spectrophotometers, analytical balances, autoclaves, incubators).

Prepare chemical reagents and biological media; ensure accuracy in preparation and standardization of solutions and media.

Log samples and related information into chain of custody and LIMS; handle samples and specimens involved in court action as needed.

Keep informed of new laboratory techniques. Maintain Georgia Water laboratory analyst license by obtaining Continuing Education points.

Maintain inventories of supplies and stock for laboratory use.

Record detailed documentation of work activities and sample information.

Rotate between five areas: microbiology laboratory, chemistry laboratory, and three distribution routes (North, Central, South).

Calibrate bench equipment, record temperatures, and perform maintenance checks on laboratory equipment.

May assist with flushing hydrants on weekends as needed.

Take City vehicles for scheduled cleaning and maintenance as assigned.

Communicate effectively with coworkers and other departments, both verbally and in writing.

May perform other duties as assigned.

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

Knowledge Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of laboratory tests and analyses.

Skill in operating a computer and software.

Ability to handle samples and laboratory equipment.

Ability to perform injections, collect tissue, and conduct autopsies and minor surgical techniques on laboratory animals.

Minimum Qualifications Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Technology, Chemistry, Physical or Biological 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. Georgia Wastewater Laboratory Analyst License or Drinking Water License, desirable (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 Engineering Technology, Chemistry, Physical or Biological 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 are 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.

Equal Opportunity Statement It is the policy of the City of Atlanta (COA) that qualified individuals with disabilities are not discriminated against in job applications, hiring, or other terms of employment. COA provides reasonable accommodations in all aspects of the employment process to enable applicants or employees to participate fully. If reasonable accommodation is needed, contact the Human Resources Director for your department. COA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, veteran’s status, or national origin. We value and encourage diversity in our workforce.

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