Laboratory Chemist

Overview

Applications are being accepted for the position of Laboratory Chemist with the City of South San Francisco.

Final date to receive applications: FRIDAY, APRIL 3, 2026, 5:00 P.M. OR UPON RECEIPT OF THE FIRST 100 ONLINE APPLICATIONS, WHICHEVER OCCURS FIRST.

The Water Quality Control Plant (WQCP) processes wastewater discharge for the cities of South San Francisco, San Bruno and the Town of Colma. The Water Quality Control Plant is a division of the Public Works Department staffed by 38 employees including:
Plant Superintendent;
Operation, Maintenance, Laboratory and Environment Compliance Supervisors;
Senior Chemist;
Chemist;
Lead Plant Mechanics;
Plant Mechanics;
Lead Plant Operators;
Plant Operators;
Electricians;
Senior Environmental Compliance Inspector;
Environmental Compliance Inspectors, Utility Workers, and two Administrative Assistants.

The WQCP laboratory conducts vital chemical and microbiological tests to the wastewater treatment plant 365 days a year. The laboratory analyzes water samples throughout the various stages of treatment process, and provides the operation with quick feedback critical to maintaining and optimizing the treatment process as well as meeting requirements for regulatory monitoring. The Laboratory is accredited by the Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (ELAP) under the State Water Resources Control Board, and maintains accreditation in accordance with the 2016 TNI Standard.

The ideal Laboratory Chemist is a self-motivated professional who demonstrates integrity, initiative, and sound technical judgment while working both independently and collaboratively within a team environment. The successful candidate possesses a strong background in chemical, biological, and bacteriological analyses, with hands-on experience performing water/wastewater testing in accordance with regulatory requirements and established quality systems. The ideal candidate will also have experience in preparing reagents and related laboratory tests on samples of wastewater;

operating, maintaining and cleaning laboratory equipment; performing quality control procedures; accurately preparing reports; and following OSHA safety standards. The Laboratory Chemist will also work within a laboratory team with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively with a commitment to strong customer service, while building positive working relationships for efficient wastewater treatment operations.

Note:

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

Experience: One year of increasingly responsible experience performing chemical, bacteriological, biological, or biochemical laboratory analysis. Experience performing laboratory analysis in a treatment plant is preferred.

Training: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in microbiology, biology, chemistry, or a related field.

Licenses/Certificates: All licenses and certificates must be maintained as a condition of employment.

• Possession of a valid California driver's license and a satisfactory driving record.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain and maintain, a California Water Environment Association Laboratory Analyst II Certificate, which is required within two years of employment.

To be considered, the following REQUIRED items must be submitted at the time of application:

• City application
• Responses to the supplemental questionnaire

NOTE: Applications must be completed in full. All work experience, and education or training must be listed directly on the City application. Applications that state "See Resume" or omit required information will be considered incomplete and subject to disqualification. Resumes may be attached separately; however, resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a completed City application. Only application materials and documents that are specifically required within this job announcement will be reviewed as part of the application process.

The process will…