LTU Water - Environmental Laboratory Specialist

Job Posting Information Lincoln Water System (LWS), a division of the City of Lincoln’s Transportation and Utilities Department (LTU), is seeking an Environmental Laboratory Specialist to support the Water Quality Section. LTU employs nearly 600 team members dedicated to providing reliable transportation, transit, and utility services throughout the year. We value innovation, environmental stewardship, collaboration, and strong community partnerships. This professional-level position plays a key role in helping the Lincoln Water System Water Quality Section maintain compliance with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Safe Drinking Water Act requirements. The position focuses on collecting and analyzing drinking water samples throughout the city’s water distribution system to support regulatory and general water quality monitoring programs such as the Total Coliform Rule and the Lead and Copper Rule, as well as other Water Quality Section initiatives. Work involves performing field sampling and water quality testing at locations across the Lincoln Water System service area, including City facilities, outdoor sampling hydrants, businesses, schools, private residences, childcare facilities, and other designated sites. The position also responds to water quality inquiries and concerns, exercising independent judgement in conducting appropriate field investigations and providing follow‑up information. This position is responsible for entering and reviewing water quality data in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS); preparing regulatory and internal reports; and using digital tools such as Power BI, GIS, and other database systems to monitor water quality trends. The role requires strong computer proficiency, attention to detail, and the ability to interpret and communicate technical information accurately. This position includes a combination of field work and office work, which involves driving a City vehicle and collecting water samples indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions. The position is based in Lincoln, Nebraska, with occasional assignments in Ashland. Hours: Monday through Friday; 7 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Nature of Work/Examples of Work Performed Perform regulatory and non‑regulatory water sampling and field testing at City facilities, outdoor sampling hydrants, businesses, schools, homes, childcare centers, and other locations throughout the community. Investigate water quality concerns by visiting residences and businesses, conducting field analyses, and assessing potential causes of water quality issues. Provide water quality education to the public through community outreach, distribution of educational materials, and direct communication with consumers. Support lead‑in‑water mitigation and compliance activities, including Lead and Copper Rule sampling and responding appropriately to lead plumbing disturbances. Document sampling activities, test results, public interactions, and field observations using GIS, asset management platforms, reporting tools, and digital databases. Monitor and evaluate sampling locations to ensure they meet program criteria, represent system conditions, and comply with regulatory and internal requirements. Report unusual or concerning water quality results to supervisors for additional evaluation and follow‑up. Perform calibration, basic troubleshooting, and routine maintenance of field analytical equipment. Enter, verify, and manage water quality data within the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to support accurate reporting and trend evaluation. Participate in ongoing water quality programs such as hydrant flushing optimization, routine distribution system sampling, auto‑flusher monitoring, and surface water testing. Present water quality information to City staff, elected officials, or the public as needed. Obtain a Nebraska Water Operator Grade IV license within 12 months of employment and maintain a minimum of a Grade III Water Operator Certificate, as eligible. Desirable Knowledge, Abilities & Skills/Desirable Training & Experience Bachelor’s Degree with major coursework in environmental science or technology, chemistry, biology, geology, hydrology, engineering, or closely related field with at least six months experience at a professional level in the environmental field; or Associate’s Degree with major coursework in environmental science, chemistry (with qualitative and quantitative analysis), biology, microbiology or chemical engineering and a minimum of two years professional experience specializing in drinking water; or any equivalent combination of training and experience. Preferred Knowledge and Skills Nebraska Water Operator Certification/License preferred. Knowledge of Safe Drinking Water Act regulations and EPA-approved testing methods. Experience with public communication and customer service. Familiarity with Microsoft Office, GIS, LIMS, and environmental data management systems. Minimum Qualifications/Necessary Special Requirements Graduation from an accredited four‑year college or university with major coursework in environmental science or technology, chemistry, biology, geology, hydrology, engineering or closely related field. Two years of experience at a professional level in an environmental laboratory. Any equivalent combination of training and experience that provides the desirable knowledge, abilities and skills may be considered. Necessary Special Requirement Possession of a valid driver’s license #J-18808-Ljbffr