Lab Technician

Salary: $21.21 - $27.04 Hourly
Location : Water Department Marietta, GA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 05011
Department: Water
Opening Date: 06/30/2026
Closing Date: 7/15/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Grade Code: 106


Position Information
The purpose of this classification is to provide laboratory support and perform routine testing and analysis of samples collected from water reclamation facilities, streams, and permitted industries. This position is essential to meet State and Federal requirements for monitoring compliance with Cobb County's four wastewater reclamation facilities NPDES permits, the Cobb County Watershed Protection Plan and the Industrial Pre-treatment Program.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This is an entry-level class for the laboratory job family.

Essential Functions


Performs chemical, physical, and bacteriological examination of water samples: collects, receives, inspects, prepares, and tests samples for established criteria; prepares all bacteriological media and reagents needed for testing; performs microbiological and physical testing and necessary calculations; reviews, analyzes and reports results; identifies trends and patterns; and prepares and submits related reports.

Ensures compliance with established laboratory and industry policies, procedures and standards: inspects sample results for consistency with historical values; enters quality control data for batch analysis; verifies accuracy and precision of techniques; performs method detection limit study in assigned work area; informs supervisors of data errors or permit violations; and documents corrective actions.

Maintains logs and records regarding work activities: researches, compiles, consolidates, and/or tabulates data and information; logs data and analytical information; verifies accuracy and completeness of data and information entered; and incorporates information into requested reports and other prepared materials.

Utilizes and maintains field, testing, and laboratory equipment: calibrates equipment; performs accuracy checks; cleans and sterilizes equipment and work areas; ensures preventive maintenance; and notifies management when equipment is not working properly.

Maintains a detailed and accurate inventory of materials, tools, equipment and supplies: records use of work materials and supplies; estimates rates of consumption and life expectancy; and initiates requests for new and/or replacement as needed.

Maintains a comprehensive, current knowledge and awareness of applicable policies and procedures impacting laboratory and testing operations: maintains and awareness of new equipment, procedures, trends and advances in the profession; participates in continuing education activities; and attends meetings, workshops and seminars as appropriate.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, or related field required; previous experience in laboratory testing and techniques is preferred; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.

Licenses and Certifications


Must possess certification as a Georgia Wastewater Laboratory Analyst within one year of employment.

Physical Abilities


Tasks require the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work, but which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of light weight (5-10 pounds). Tasks may involve extended periods of time at a keyboard or work station.

Sensory Requirements

Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate colors or shades of colors Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally.

Environmental Factors

Performance of essential functions may require exposure to adverse environmental conditions, such as odors, wetness, fumes, machinery, vibrations, electric currents, traffic hazards, toxic agents, disease, or pathogenic substances.

EEO Statement

Cobb County Government is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or any other legally protected status.
Visit Cobb County's Employee Benefits page to learn more.
01


I understand that all answers to these supplemental questions must be verifiable in the 'Educational History' and 'Work History' sections of the application. Failure to provide sufficient information in these sections may result in my disqualification from the hiring process.

• Yes
• No

02


I have read the Minimum Qualifications required for this position and understand I must demonstrate those qualifications on the application in order to be considered for this position. Furthermore, a failure to adequately demonstrate all qualifications may result in my removal from consideration. Lastly, I understand indicating "see resume" on the application, may not be accepted in lieu of a completed application.

• Yes
• No

03


Are you legally eligible to work in the United States on an unlimited and unrestricted basis?

• Yes
• No

04


Educational Background (copies of any education documents listed on your application will be required upon hire) : Mark the highest level of education you have completed.

• High School Diploma or GED
• Some College
• Associate Degree
• Bachelor's Degree
• Advanced Degree
• None of the above

05


If you have a college degree, what was your major area of study? Enter N/A if this does not apply.
06


How many years of experience do you have in a laboratory setting?

• No experience
• Less than two years of experience
• Two to three years of experience
• Four or more years of experience

07


Please describe your laboratory experience and the type of analyses have you performed. Enter 'N/A' if not applicable. 'See Resume' will not be accepted.
08


Do you have experience performing laboratory tests using a discrete analyzer?

• Yes
• No

09


This position requires that Certification by State of Georgia as a Wastewater Laboratory Analyst be obtained within one year of hiring date. Are you willing to obtain this certification?

• I currently possess this certification.
• Yes, I am willing to obtain this certification.
• No, I am not willing to obtain this certification

10


Are you willing to work weekends and holidays as needed?

• Yes
• No

11


If you receive a conditional offer of employment, you will be required to satisfactorily complete the following elements: a criminal background check and provide copies of any education documents listed on your application . Please note that a criminal conviction may not disqualify you from consideration. Are you willing to accept these terms?

• Yes
• No

Required Question