Laboratory Analyst I / II

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Salary Ranges based on experience:
Laboratory Analyst I $46.24-52.33

Laboratory Analyst II $53.64-60.68

Job Summary

To perform professional level duties related to a variety of chemical, biochemical, and bacteriological water testing and analysis activities.

Distinguishing Characteristics

Laboratory Analyst 1 This is the entry level class in the Laboratory Analyst series. This class is distinguished from the journey level by the performance of the more routine tasks and duties assigned to positions within this series. Employees at this level are not expected to perform under close supervision of senior level employees and may exercise limited independence. Employees may have only limited or no directly related work experience. Employees work under general supervision while learning job tasks.

Laboratory Analyst 2 This is the journey level class within the Laboratory Analyst series and is distinguished from the 1 level by the assignment of the full range of duties. Employees at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new, unusual or unique situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies within the work unit. Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the 1 level.

Supervision Received and Exercised

Laboratory Analyst 1:  Receives general supervision from the Water Quality/Regulatory Affairs Supervisor; may receive technical and functional supervision from a Laboratory Analyst 2.

Laboratory Analyst 2:  Receives direction assigned by the Water Quality/Regulatory Affairs Supervisor; may exercise technical and functional supervision over a Laboratory Analyst 1.

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Test, analyze, and collect water samples from various sources, including raw ground and surface water, residential tap water; and treatment plant process control product.
• Assess chemical, biochemical, and bacteriological characteristics of samples to ensure compliance with State and Federal requirements.
• Recognize problems that may occur in an analytical procedure; trouble shoot known procedures; identify possible problems affecting test results; recommend changes to procedures, as appropriate.
• Set up, calibrate, and operate a variety of laboratory equipment and instruments; perform routine servicing and preventive maintenance of laboratory equipment instruments.
• Prepare standard chemical solutions, reagents, stains and bacteriological media.
• Enter laboratory data into a computer system for further analysis and reporting purposes; maintain laboratory records and prepare required reports.
• Assist in maintaining adequate laboratory supplies and inventory; order supplies as assigned. Work with consultants or vendors as required.
• Test, analyze and collect various granular activated carbon samples.
• Respond to questions and complaints from the public regarding water quality.
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other District employees and the public using principles of good customer service.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Laboratory Analyst 1

Knowledge of:

• Principles and practices of chemistry, bacteriology and the chemical sciences, including methods and techniques of laboratory testing and analysis.
• Modern laboratory procedures and equipment, including computer uses and applications used in laboratory testing and analysis.
• Sample collection/monitoring procedures and sample preservation methods related to water treatment processes.
• Modern office procedures, methods and computer equipment including word processing, database and spreadsheet applications.

Ability to:

• Perform professional level duties related to a variety of chemical, biochemical, and bacteriological water testing and analysis activities.
• On a continuous basis, know and understand all aspects of the job; intermittently analyze work papers, reports and special projects; identify and interpret technical and numerical information; observe and problem solve operational and technical policy and procedures.
• Prepare reagents; assemble and operate testing apparatus and equipment
• Perform tests accurately and precisely and maintain associated records.
• Learn pertinent local, State, and Federal codes, regulations, and laws.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Experience and Training : Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

Experience: No professional experience is required; one year of water treatment testing and analysis is desirable.

Training: Equivalent to a bachelors degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in chemistry, bacteriology, biology or a related field or three years experience in water treatment or water distribution.

License and Certificate:

• Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Drivers License.
• Possession of an American Water Works Association Water Quality Laboratory Analyst 1 Certificate is desirable.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain within six months, a State Water Resources Control Board Water Treatment Operator Grade 2 is required.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain within six months, a State Water Resources Control Board Water Distribution Grade 2 certification is required

Laboratory Analyst 2

In addition to the qualifications for the Laboratory Analyst 1:

Knowledge of:

• Principles and practices of quality assurance and quality control and their applications to a wide variety of testing and analytical procedures;
• Pertinent local, State, and Federal codes, regulations, and laws.

Ability to: Independently perform professional level duties related to a variety of chemical, biochemical, and bacteriological water testing and analysis activities. Maintain laboratory personnel requirements according to 22 CCR 64812.00.

Experience and Training

Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

Experience: Two years of responsible journey experience performing duties similar to a Laboratory Analyst 1 with the Palmdale Water District.

Training: Equivalent to a bachelors degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in chemistry, bacteriology, biology or a related field.

License and Certificate

• Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Drivers License.
• Possession of a State Water Resources Control Board Water Treatment Operator Grade 2 Certificate is required.
• Possession of a State Water Resources Control Board Water Distribution Operator Grade 2 Certificate is required.

Physical Requirements

On a continuous basis, sit at desk for long periods of time; intermittently bend, squat, climb, kneel or twist while performing field sampling work; intermittently twist to reach equipment surrounding desk; perform simple grasping and fine manipulation; use telephone, and write or use a keyboard to communicate through written means; and push, pull, lift or carry weight up to 25 pounds. Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Must be able to operate a district vehicle.

Approved: December 2025

Compensation details: 46.24-60.68 Hourly Wage

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