Chemist I/II - Environmental Services Department

The Environmental Services Department (ESD) is a national leader in pollution prevention, watershed protection, utility service provision, and climate action. ESD employees positively impact every resident and business in San José through a supportive leadership team, professional growth opportunities, and an inclusive workplace culture.

About the Role

The Environmental Laboratory provides critical analytical services for monitoring operations, compliance, and industrial discharges to the Wastewater Facility, as well as water quality studies in the Bay and urban tributaries. The lab operates 365 days a year, processing over 50,000 samples annually for internal and external customers. The 28-member team includes chemists, microbiologists, biologists, and laboratory technicians across five multidisciplinary sections: Wet Chemistry, Biology, Trace Organics, Trace Metals, and Quality (Client Support and LIMS administration).

This position is on-site at the San José-Santa Clara Regional Wastewater Facility (4245 Zanker Road, San Jose, CA 95134). Hybrid work is not available. The lab operates 365 days per year, with typical schedules of five days per week between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM, including occasional weekend and holiday shifts.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and oversee analytical methodologies for water, wastewater, industrial waste, and related matrices.
• Perform complex analyses of water, wastewater, and related matrices using routine and sophisticated instruments.
• Follow laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs) to meet QA/QC requirements and report data.
• Review, validate, and report analytical data using a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Compile and manage laboratory data and records; prepare reports.
• Ensure laboratory safety compliance and maintain knowledge of Chemical Hygiene Plans (CHP).
• Implement and maintain quality control (QC), quality assurance (QA), and Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs); ensure familiarity with TNI 2016 standards, California laboratory accreditation regulations, and audit processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, environmental chemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
• Chemist I: One (1) year of experience working in a laboratory environment.
• Chemist II: Three (3) years of experience working in a water or wastewater laboratory environment.
• A Master’s degree or higher in chemistry or a related discipline may substitute for one (1) year of laboratory experience.
• Possession of a valid California driver’s license. Employment may be contingent on passing a DMV Employer Pull Notice (EPN) assessment.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will demonstrate the following competencies:

• Job Expertise: Knowledge of chemistry principles (physical, organic, inorganic, analytical, biochemistry), laboratory techniques, instrumentation, and relevant regulations.
• Communication Skills: Clear oral and written communication; effective listening and openness to others' ideas.
• Computer Skills: Proficiency in MS Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Access, and Excel.
• Teamwork and Interpersonal Skills: Collaboration, conflict resolution, and relationship-building.
• Analytical Skills: Logical, systemic problem-solving approach.
• Creativity: Innovative thinking to improve processes and solve problems.
• Reliability: Timely completion of quality work; discretion with confidential information.

Desirable certifications include California Water Environment Association (CWEA) Laboratory Analyst Grade 1/2 or CA-NV/AWWA Water Quality Analyst Certificate.

Pay

• Chemist I: $107,562.00 – $130,690.56 annually (includes ~5% non-pensionable compensation).
• Chemist II: $118,547.52 – $144,012.96 annually (includes ~5% non-pensionable compensation).

Actual salary will be based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package.
• 15 paid holidays per year.

Physical/Environmental Demands

• Work may range from Sedentary (exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally) to Medium (exerting up to 50 pounds occasionally, 20 pounds frequently, or 10 pounds constantly).