Lab Technician I or Lab Technician II

Lab Technician I or Lab Technician II

Salary

$60,112.00 - $91,977.60 Annually

Location

Wastewater Utility 2101 South Wisconsin Avenue, Racine, WI

Job Type

Full-Time

Job Number

202600099

Department

Wastewater Utility

Division

Wastewater

Opening Date

11/11/2026

Closing Date

11/25/2026 11:59 PM Central

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Job Description

We offer a great benefits package including medical, dental, pension program, HSA, and generous time off. City residents will earn a 4% differential on top of the hourly pay range. Learn more and apply today!

POSITION PURPOSE:

The purpose of this position is to perform laboratory analyses with a high degree of competency according to Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Natural Resources approved methodology, and in compliance with state code of regulations and standard operating procedures. Works collaboratively with other utility staff to support permit compliance and operational efficiency. General upkeep of laboratory equipment and facilities.

To learn more about this great opportunity, click the link below.

Wastewater Lab Technician

Essential Duties

The following duties are standard for these positions. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Technician I

• Wet chemistry analyses including but not limited to Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), solids, phosphorus, ammonia, kjeldahl nitrogen, chlorine, pH, etc.

• Bacteriological enumeration analyses.

• Performs assays of plant process control chemicals.

• Prepares analytical reagents, standards, and culture media.

• Collects and preserves laboratory samples using proper chain of custody protocol.

• Process samples through laboratory information management system (LIMS) - login, batching, data entry and review.

• Validates accurate readings from temperature monitoring devices.

• Maintains neat and accurate laboratory records including bench sheets, various logs, etc.

• Maintains diligent records in support of chemical traceability.

• Verifies quality assurance of all data submitted; recognizes non-conformance/out of tolerance and documents corrective action.

• Performs routine quality checks of laboratory equipment and periodic preventative maintenance.

• Performs assisted to basic equipment and instrument troubleshooting.

• Assists with coordination and preparation of samples for contract lab analysis.

• Maintains and routinely cleans laboratory equipment and work area.

• Adheres to all safety procedures as defined by the Utility Work & Safety Rules and the Laboratory Chemical Hygiene Plan.

• Performs clerical tasks including but not limited to filing, data entry and replying to internal and external inquiries via phone or email.

• Assists other laboratory or utility personnel as needed or directed.

• Must be able to work a rotating weekend and holiday schedule.

• Must be able to work in a rotation for emergency standby calls. This is not scheduled in advance, rather weather dependent.

Technician II

• Above listed wet chemistry analyses including cyanide and oil & grease.
• Conducts microbiological examination of activated sludge.
• Assists with coordination and preparation for permit related sampling events.
• Assists with special projects and method development/validation as directed.
• Performs intermediate equipment and instrument troubleshooting.
• Performs all Technician I duties with a higher degree of skill, knowledge and efficiency.

Qualifications

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

Technician I

• Knowledge of basic laboratory principles, techniques, terminology and equipment.
• Ability to consistently perform laboratory tests within established quality control criteria.
• Analytical and troubleshooting skills, with particular attention to detail
• Ability to independently manage workload according to established procedures, sample hold times, and Laboratory Director assigned due dates.

Technician II

• Demonstrated knowledge and skill regarding analytical methodology, instrument operation, recognition of atypical sample characteristics, troubleshooting routine QC failures and subsequent corrective action, and trend analysis in data sets.
• Ability to consistently perform laboratory tests within established quality control criteria.
• Ability to independently manage workload according to established procedures, sample hold times, and Laboratory Director assigned due dates.
• Ability to provide basic instruction and training to technicians, interns and other personnel in correct laboratory procedures, sampling protocols and safety practices.
• Proficiency in microbial identification, methodology and causation.
• Documented proficiency in Technician I assigned test parameters.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Technician I

• Associates degree from an accredited institution of recognized standing in a relevant field of study and a minimum of two (2) years relevant laboratory experience, may be substituted for a bachelor's degree.
• Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Basic General Wastewater Operator and Laboratory Subgrade (L) certification required within one (1) year of hire.
• A valid state-issued motor vehicle operating license.

Preferred Qualification:

Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution of recognized standing in a relevant scientific discipline (chemistry, biology, life sciences, water resources, etc.) preferred.

Technician II

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution of recognized standing in a relevant scientific discipline (chemistry, biology, life sciences, water resources, etc.) preferred and a minimum of two (2) years relevant laboratory experience.
• Associates degree from an accredited institution of recognized standing in a relevant field of study and a minimum of three (3) years relevant laboratory experience, may be substituted for a bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience demonstrating the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may also be considered.
• Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Basic General Wastewater Operator and Laboratory Subgrade (L) certification required within one (1) year of hire.
• A valid state-issued motor vehicle operating license.

Supplemental Information

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL ABILITY REQUIREMENTS:

Language and Interpersonal Communication.

• Ability to analyze and categorize data and information in order to determine the relationship of the data with reference to established criteria/standards.
• Ability to compare, count, differentiate, classify, compute, tabulate, measure and/or sort data, as well as assemble, copy and record and transcribe data and information.
• Ability to utilize, interpret, and apply a variety of advisory data and information such as lab test results records and reports, charts, graphs, quality assurance documents, laboratory certification manuals, testing protocol and standards, federal and state lab operating and reporting regulations and guidelines, SDS, scientific supply catalogs, technical operating manuals, and procedures.
• Ability to communicate orally and in writing with varied and diverse contacts, such as Utility personnel, waste haulers, general public, vendor representatives, customers, students, and regulatory personnel.
• Ability to understand and follow written and oral instructions.

Mathematical Application

• Ability to apply algebraic and trigonometric formulas, and interpret inferential statistical reports and/or formulation and equation data.

• Ability to classify, compute and tabulate data using hand-written bench sheets and electronic spreadsheets in analyzing, recording, and interpreting data.

Judgement and Situational Reasoning

• Ability to use functional reasoning and apply rational judgment, decisiveness and creativity in situations involving the evaluation of information against sensory and/or subjective criteria.
• Ability to work independently to perform and interpret laboratory tests.

Physical Requirements

• Must have good dexterity with ability to hand operate equipment and instruments, some requiring complex and rapid adjustments in coordination with eye movement
• Ability to stand for long periods of time.
• Ability to exert light to moderate physical effort to lift and carry objects up to 25 lbs, typically involving some combination of stooping, kneeling, crouching and crawling, lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling.
• Ability to recognize and identify degrees of similarity or difference between characteristics of color, sound and odors as associated with job-related objects, materials and tasks.

Work Environment and Conditions

• The majority of time will be spent in a climate-controlled laboratory.
• Occasional exposure to plant and outdoor conditions where weather, noise, and odors is expected.
• Ability to work under mildly unsafe and uncomfortable conditions where exposure to environmental factors such as heat, odors, smoke, chemicals, toxic agents, noise, wetness, pathogens, electrical currents, broken glass and/or dusts can cause discomfort and where there is risk of injury.

EQUIPMENT USED:

• Variety of laboratory meters, analytical balance, fume hood, water bath, muffle furnace, drying oven, centrifuge, vacuum pump, solid phase extraction manifold, glassware washer, autoclave, miscellaneous laboratory glassware, water purification units, etc. Discrete Analyzer, BOD Analyzer, UV-Vis spectrophotometer.

• Software including but not limited to Element LIMS, Seal Analytical AQ & BOD, and MS suite of applications.

Special information:

The Racine Wastewater Utility laboratory is a WDNR certified laboratory providing analytical services in support of regulatory compliance, plant process control, industrial pretreatment program and collection system monitoring, Certification is maintained by successful submission of annual proficiency test results and an onsite audit every 3 years.

In support of the Utility's greater mission, it is the laboratory's objective to produce data of the highest quality, uphold a standard of excellence with integrity, and responsibly manage the investment by those we serve.

The City of Racine is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

If you would like assistance completing an application or have any questions, please contact the HR Recruiter at HRRecruiting@cityofracine.org.

City Employee Benefits - 2026

• Health Insurance

• 92.5% of the Premium is paid by the City of Racine - either single or family.

• Centivo administers the PPO Plans that are offered. You can chose from two high-deductible health plans and one low-deductible health plan, with two different networks offered.

• CVS Caremark administers our prescription plan

• Payment of $50 per month to employees who waive health coverage

• Health Savings Account (H.S.A.)

• A Health Savings Account (H.S.A.) is a tax beneficial savings account that can be used in conjunction with a qualified High - Deductible Health Plan. The funds put into an H.S.A. may be used on future, eligible health care expenses without any taxation. The City makes a prorated, one-time contribution to an employee's Health Savings Account, with the amount of the contribution determined at the time of hire.

• The maximum contribution amounts are determined by the IRS each year.

• Racine Employee Health & Wellness Center

• The Employee Health and Wellness Center run by Ascension Wisconsin is available to you and your dependent(s) if enrolled in the medical insurance

• It provides comprehensive services including clinic visits, health coaching, and preventative exams and health screenings.

• Life Insurance

• City provides one unit equal to your annual earnings

• Employee may buy additional insurance - each unit is equal to your annual earnings.

• Maximum additional life insurance is four units; For a total of five (5) units at the maximum coverage.

• Cost depends on age and annual salary

• Spouse and Dependent Life Insurance is available - maximum coverage is $20,000 for spouse and $10,000 for dependents, cost is $3.20 per month or half for $1.60/month

• Pension

• Wisconsin Retirement System, the contribution rate for 2026 is 14.4% Funded 50% by the City of Racine and 50% by the employee.

• Rates can change per year depending upon what is approved through WRS.

• Vacation

• Less than 4 years of continuous service - 96 hours

• At least 4 years but less than 9 years of continuous service - 136

• At least 9 years but less than 14 years of continuous service - 176

• At least 14 years but less than 21 years of continuous service - 216

• At least 21 years of continuous service - 256

• You may carry over up to 80 hours into the next year.

• During the first calendar year of employment, new employees shall earn vacation on a prorated basis based on the new employee's start date.

• Holidays

• 13 paid holidays, 12 scheduled and 1 floating

• Sick Leave

• Accrues at the rate of 1 day per full month worked.

• Casual Days

• You can earn up to 4 casual days based off the amount of sick time that you have accrued.

• You are also eligible for an additional casual day if you use 16 hours or less of sick time in the preceding year.

• Dental Insurance

• MetLife administers our dental plan with two options available to employees (Basic plan or Advanced plan). Employees pay the premium with a pre-tax payroll deduction.

• The City of Racine pays for the Basic Employee premium if you are enrolled in the medical insurance.

• Vision Insurance

• Superior Vision administers our vision plan with one option. Employees pay the premium with a pre-tax payroll deduction.

• Flexible Spending Plans

• Medical and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts administered by Health Equity.

• The maximum contributions are determined by the IRS each year.

• Short Term Disability Policy

• Automatically enrolled in a short-term disability insurance policy through MetLife, excludes Water and Wastewater Utility Employees.

• 70% of annual income, up to 13 weeks with a maximum benefit of $2,000 weekly.

• Employee Assistance Program

• The City of Racine offers an employee assistance program through Advocate Aurora.

• Parental Leave

• 320 hours of paid parental leave, if eligible for FMLA. Water and Wastewater Utility employees are eligible for 80 hours.

• Deferred Compensation

• Provided through Nationwide, Security Benefit (RPA/The Standard) or Wisconsin Deferred Comp.

• Supplemental Insurance

• Provided through AFLAC Funded by payroll deduction

• Accident, Hospital & Cancer policies are available

• Tuition Reimbursement

• $4,000 per year, or 80% of the employees total tuition cost, whichever is lower.

• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

• The PSLF Program promotes full-time public sector employment. Public Employees, may qualify for public service loan forgiveness after making 120 payments toward their student loans while working full-time in public service. This means that nurses, policeman, firefighters, public health, and government employees can be eligible for participation. The Forgiveness Program was designed uniquely to provide relief to those who are doing the best for our communities every day. To find out if you qualify for a forgiveness program call 866-706-5005.

• Wellness Incentive

• Employees, spouses, and retirees covered by the City health insurance plan who complete the Wellness Incentive requirements are eligible to receive $200, spouses receive $100.

• Fitness Reimbursement

• Employees, spouses, and retirees covered by the City health insurance plan are eligible for 50% reimbursement of their annual membership fee up to a maximum of $200 per household.

• Reimbursement also includes fitness classes and weight reduction programs.

• City of Racine Residency

• City of Racine employees that are non-represented are eligible for a 4% per hour pay differential if you provide proof that you are City of Racine resident.

• City of Racine residency pay differential rates are different for:

• Racine Police Association - 3% differential rate

• Local 321 Firefighter Union - 3% differential rate

• Transit Union - 2% differential rate

• You can receive additional City contribution into your H.S.A. account if you are a City of Racine Resident. Residency contributions are based on what

Additional information about the City's comprehensive benefits package can be found on the following website; Active Employees - City of Racine - Human Resources Department

01

Do you currently possess a bachelor degree in life sciences, chemistry, biology, water resources or a related field?

02

How many years of laboratory technician experience do you have?

• None
• 1-2 years of experience
• 3-4 years of experience
• 5+ years of experience

03

Do you have a WI DNR Wastewater Operator General or Laboratory License?

• Yes
• No

04

Are you able to differentiate between characteristics of color, sound, and odor?

• Yes
• No

05

Do you have a valid drivers license?

• Yes
• No

06

Can you describe your experience with Microsoft programs? List the specific programs youve utilized.

Required Question

Employer City of Racine

Address 730 Washington Avenue

Room 204

Racine, Wisconsin, 53403

Phone 262-636-9175

Website https://cityofracinewi.gov