Laboratory Technician

Job Description

Job Description

Salary: $25.08 - $27.27 per hour

The City of Athens is hiring a Laboratory Technician. This position is integral in the protection of the city's water supply. The Laboratory Technician collects, analyzes and interprets water samples in order to assure water quality is maintained. This is a full-time position. Interested candidates can apply on-line. A Civil Service Exam will be held on Friday, July 10th, 2026, at 10 AM. The exam location is the Athens Community Center, 701 E. State St., Athens, OH 45701.

LABORATORY TECHNICIAN

Classification Title: Laboratory Technician Bargaining Unit: Non-Union

Division/Dept.: Engineering/Public Works FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Reports to: Director, Engineering/Public Works Pay Grade: 6

Position Summary:

The Laboratory Technician performs testing procedures relating to the operations of the Wastewater Treatment Plant and Water Treatment Plant to assure desired water quality is maintained. This position is full-time and is non-exempt from the FLSA.

Essential Functions:

• Collects, analyzes, and interprets wet chemical water quality tests and biological water quality tests.
• Collects required EPA samples for periodic and long-term monitoring compliance and to satisfy NPDES Permit(s).
• Collects and analyzes samples as set forth by the EPA that changes on an annual basis and is set on an annual basis by the EPA.
• Analyzes samples of unknown origin for possible source determination.
• Collects and analyzes non-EPA required samples as specified by the city administration.
• Collects and analyzes samples for bacteriological examination.
• Collects river samples both above and below plants to monitor possible degradation of river.
• Operates spectrophotometer, autoclave, hot air sterilizer, hot air incubator, hot air oven, muffle furnace, water bath incubator, conductivity meter, chlorine meter, fume hood, pH meter, ultra-low level chlorine meter, Fluoride ISE Nitrogen ammonia probe, dissolved oxygen meter, Quanti-Tray or equivalent system, and related glassware and equipment.
• May be required to operate and maintain laboratory pure water system.
• Upgrades or makes recommendations for upgrade of equipment as procedural changes require it.
• Stays abreast of technology changes that would affect the operation of the laboratory.
• Prepares all associated glassware and chemicals (standards, indicators, etc.) for procedures.
• Maintains all required records for chemical supplies (reagents, standards, indicators, etc.).
• Maintains EPA required records for samples done for other labs, facilities and individuals.
• Recommend improvements in the chemical treatment of wastewater/water laboratory procedures.
• Recommends and implements improvements in the procedures for the collection and analysis of water and wastewater samples, within the limits standard protocols.
• Works with and makes appropriate recommendations to individuals or organizations that impact water or wastewater quality (other city employees, contractors, business owners, etc.).
• Collects and analyzes samples resulting from sewer or water problems and complaints in the community.
• Monitors methane monitoring sites.
• Prepares laboratory orders and reports; purchase necessary supplies and equipment
• Maintains laboratory in compliance of safety and health regulations.
• Assumes other responsibilities and performs other related duties as needed.

Position Qualifications:

• Good organizational, communication, hygiene and interpersonal skills are required.
• Associates degree in laboratory operations or similar field is required
• Must complete State of Ohio lab certification within two years of date of hire
• Obtain and maintain approved Lab Analyst Certification(s)
• Knowledge of analytical, organic, and inorganic chemistry including qualitative and quantitative analysis.
• A minimum of one year of work experience in a chemical laboratory performing tests.

Position Specifications

• Meet the attendance requirements of the position.
• Performs chemical and biological tests in laboratory.
• Must often climb to collect samples up to 30 feet.
• Carries packages weighing up to 60 pounds.

The City of Athens, OH, is an equal-opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

This position has been identified as being occupationally-at-risk for bloodborne pathogens. Safety precautions and procedures must be followed in the exercise of duties.

A background check is required post-offer.

New hires are required to be certified in First Aid and CPR at the time of the next available class.