Environmental Laboratory Analyst

The Position

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This is a limited continuous filing exam. Next filing cut-offs are at 5 : 00 pm on : 6 / 28 / 2024, 7 / 19 / 2024 (Final)

The Environmental Laboratory Analyst performs a variety of laboratory tests to determine chemical, bacteriological, biological, and physical data composition of liquids, solids, and gaseous substances.

Incumbents work under general supervision and carry out a variety of assignments involving conducting and recording routine laboratory tests following standardized procedures and within prescribed times.

Examples of Knowledge and Abilities

Knowledge of

• Basic laboratory and research techniques and methods
• Purpose, use and operation of standard laboratory equipment; basic computer, automated equipment, and laboratory applications software.
• Laboratory methods and procedures
• Use and care of laboratory equipment
• Sampling and testing procedures
• Characteristics of chemical and bacteriological elements in water and wastewater
• Chemical quantitative and qualitative analyses
• General operation and use of computers, automated equipment and application software used for laboratory work
• Acceptable safety standards in laboratory work and safe work practices

Ability to

• Perform basic and standard laboratory testing and research
• Maintain a variety of test and research records.
• Analyze and interpret the results of laboratory testing
• Keep records and prepare accurate reports of laboratory activities
• Read, write, and speak English at a level necessary for satisfactory performance
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others
• Operate motor vehicles
• Operate motorized boats
• Work with the laboratory information system and computer software
• Operate computers and peripheral equipment and utilize laboratory applications software
• Work weekends, shift and holiday schedules

Employment Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

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

1. One year of progressively responsible laboratory experience performing tests in chemical, bacteriological, or public health.

Twenty-four (24) semester hours in college or university laboratory courses such as chemistry, physics, biology, or bacteriology.

Note : The word "experience" referenced in the minimum qualifications means full-time paid experience unless the job announcement states that volunteer experience is acceptable.

Part-time paid experience may be accumulated and pro-rated to meet the total experience requirements.

Note : If the minimum qualifications include an educational or certificate / license requirement, applicants must submit proof of requirements with the application.

Failure to submit proof of requirements may result in disqualification from the examination. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.

For guidelines on submitting acceptable proof of educational requirements, please click here (Download PDF reader) or speak to someone in our office before the final filing date listed in this notice.

Special Requirements

Physical Requirements :

Must be able to use hands to hold, shake, twist laboratory equipment during analysis; distinguish visually colors, shapes, sizes, and numbers, and distinguish visually measurements as small as millimeter and a milliliter.

Some positions in this series require the ability to climb ladders and walk on sloped ground such as river levees carrying a variety of laboratory equipment;

the use of contact lenses is prohibited in the laboratory.

License Requirements :

Possession of a valid California Driver's License, Class C or higher, is required at the time of appointment.

Note : Failure to maintain the appropriate valid California Driver's License may constitute cause for termination from the class in accordance with Civil Service Rule 11.4.

Probationary Period

The probationary period for this classification is six (6) months.