WATER LABORATORY TECHNICIAN

Located on the western shore of Lake Michigan, Milwaukee is an urban hub bursting with energy. Milwaukee provides a casual sophistication – big city appeal without the big-city hassles. We are accessible and affordable, and our residents are welcoming. Milwaukee has evolved through the years, bringing together its unsurpassed charm with a breathtaking art museum, top-flight arts and cultural attractions, professional sports, lakefront festivals, recreational opportunities and great restaurants.

The City of Milwaukee is proud to employ a diverse workforce that is committed to providing exemplary service to the City's residents. If you have a passion for being part of an inclusive team of public servants, please consider the following opportunity.

Under the direction of the Water Quality Operations Manager, the Water Laboratory Technician collects and analyzes water samples to ensure potable drinking water for Milwaukee Water Works (MWW) customers.

Technical

• Collect and analyze water samples from pre-set sites on a scheduled basis.
• Coordinate and conduct citywide distribution system sampling to test for compliance with bacteriological and chemical parameters.
• Respond to customer complaints by determining the appropriate type and location of samples to collect; facilitate the collection of samples to assess water quality.
• Conduct field tests, including the use of multi-parameter analyzers and other meters to assess water quality conditions.
• Obtain water samples from various locations, including source water and treatment process sites, and perform routine chemical/physical analyses including, pH, total and calcium hardness, alkalinity, and chlorine residual, checking for adherence to standard quality control guidelines.
• Maintain complete and accurate records of water sampling and analysis.
• Provide microbiological program assistance by preparing and conducting basic testing procedures.
• Ensure that media and supplies are always available and readied for the analysis of microbiological samples, including preparation of bacteriological media and chemical reagents, sterilization of glassware, media, and waste, and other general tasks.
• Under the direction of the Water Quality Operations Manager, participate in applied research projects.

Quality Control/Quality Assurance and Sample Tracking

• Conduct bench chemical and physical tests and Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) tests that are not part of routine microbiological procedures.
• Operate and maintain bench equipment.
• In the absence of the microbiologist, track the number of required monthly samples and monitor progress toward completion to meet state and federal regulations.

Lead Service Lateral Replacement Program

• Provide lead service lateral replacement program assistance by preparing, delivering, and collecting water sampling kits.
• Deliver sampling kits to contract laboratories.
• Contact customers to arrange sampling; maintain detailed records of work conducted and chain of custody documentation.
• Track inventory of supplies and notify the Water Chemist Project Leader of needed items to order.

We welcome qualified individuals with disabilities who are interested in employment and will make reasonable accommodations during the hiring process in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, as amended by the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) of 2008.

• Water Plant Section employees are considered “essential” and must report to work no matter the weather conditions or emergency event.
• Must be able to wear appropriate safety equipment including safety shoes, glasses, and hearing protection.
• Must be able to work mandatory overtime and respond to emergency call-outs.
• Must be able to work outdoors in all types of weather conditions for extended periods of time.
• Water treatment plants are deemed critical infrastructure and require employees to adhere to strict security procedures.
• Must be able to work varying shifts, including weekends and holidays, to meet the 24/7 oversight of the treatment process.
• Must be able to travel throughout the Milwaukee Water Works (MWW) service area to collect samples, including collection at customer homes.

1. Associate degree in biology, chemistry, water technology, or a closely related field, -OR- Two years of experience working in a water treatment, chemical, industrial, commercial, or medical laboratory performing basic sample analysis.
2. Valid driver’s license at time of appointment and throughout employment.

Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

NOTICE: Please do not attach your academic transcripts to your employment application. The hiring department will verify candidates’ education as part of the background screening process prior to extending any job offers.

Technical

• Knowledge of sample analysis as performed in a water treatment, chemical, industrial, commercial, or medical laboratory.
• Knowledge of proper lab techniques, including standard methods and basic grab sampling procedures to monitor process control.
• Knowledge of quality assurance and laboratory safety standards.
• Ability to accurately record and review lab results to ensure consistent control of water treatment plant processes.
• Ability to use standard computer applications, including word processing and spreadsheet software, as well as databases to enter and review lab orders.
• Ability to accurately perform laboratory procedures, keep records, and enter test results in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret technical information, procedures, and governmental regulations.  
• Ability to read and interpret maps to navigate throughout the MWW service area.
• Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, verbal diagram, or schedule form.

Communication, Interpersonal, and Customer Service

• Verbal communication skills to communicate effectively with coworkers, management, and members of the public.
• Ability to follow written and verbal directions, standard operation procedures, and processes for accurate and complete sample collection and transit. 
• Ability to be diplomatic, tactful, and courteous with coworkers, customers, and the public, especially in adverse situations.
• Ability to interact with customers in their homes concerning the quality of the water.
• Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions appropriately.
• Ability to build and maintain positive working relationships with a multi-cultural and multi-disciplinary staff and other internal and external partnering agencies.
• Ability to work cooperatively and fairly with people whose backgrounds may differ from one's own.

Critical Thinking and Professionalism

• Analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables with limited standardization.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to take initiative and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to complete assigned duties and projects within strict deadlines to maintain compliance with water quality regulations.
• Ability to work well under pressure while responding to customer complaints.
• Ability to problem-solve and take charge as needed to mitigate problems.
• Ability to perform all work assignments safely.
• High ethical standards and stewardship of City of Milwaukee resources.

THE CURRENT STARTING SALARY (Pay Range 3MN) is $52,949-$64,758 annually, and the resident incentive starting salary for City of Milwaukee residents is $54,538-$66,701 annually. Appointment above the minimum is possible based upon level of experience and other qualifications and is subject to approval.

BENEFITS

The City of Milwaukee provides a comprehensive benefit program which includes:

• Defined Benefit Pension Plan
• 457 Deferred Compensation Plan
• Health and Dental Insurance
• Paid Parental Leave
• Comprehensive Wellness Program
• Onsite Clinic Services
• Onsite Employee Assistance Program
• Alternative Work Schedules
• Long Term Disability Insurance
• Group Life Insurance
• Tuition Benefits
• Paid Vacation
• 12 Paid Holidays
• Paid Sick Leave and other paid leaves
• Flexible Spending Arrangement
• Commuter Value Pass

For full details of the benefits offered by the City of Milwaukee, please visit https://city.milwaukee.gov/der/benefits.

THE SELECTION PROCESS will be job related and will consist of one or more of the following: an evaluation of education, experience and/or responses to supplemental questions; a written or performance test, a structured interview, or other assessment methods. The Department of Employee Relations reserves the right to call only the most qualified candidates to structured interviews and performance examinations. Structured interviews may include written exercises. Selection process component weights will be determined by further analysis of the job.

INITIAL FILING DATE – The selection process will be held as soon as practical after the deadline listed above. Receipt of applications may be discontinued at any time after this date without prior notice. However, recruitment may continue until the needs of the City have been met. Qualified applicants will be notified of the date, time, and place of the selection process components. Unless otherwise required by law, the City of Milwaukee will not provide alternative selection process dates or times. The applicant is responsible for attending all phases of the job selection process at the time and place designated by the City of Milwaukee.

• APPLICATIONS and further information may be accessed by visiting https://www.jobapscloud.com/MIL.
• Applications should be submitted no later than the deadline listed above.
• If you would like assistance completing an application, please contact the Department of Employee Relations at (414) 286-3751 or staffinginfo@milwaukee.gov.
• The Department of Employee Relations is in City Hall, 200 E Wells St, Room 706, Milwaukee, WI 53202.