Laboratory Quality Assurance Officer

About the role

The City of Vacaville is seeking a Laboratory Quality Assurance Officer to join the Utilities Department. This position plays a key role in ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and regulatory compliance of the City's environmental laboratory operations.

Responsibilities

• Develops, implements, and maintains the laboratory's Quality Management System (QMS).
• Oversees quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) programs.
• Covers accreditation activities and conducts audits.
• Assists with staff training.

Requirements

• Thorough knowledge of laboratory quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) principles and Quality Management Systems (QMS).
• Knowledge of ELAP accreditation requirements, TNI standards, and applicable state and federal regulations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify trends, evaluate data, and implement effective corrective actions.
• Ability to develop, review, maintain, and audit technical procedures, quality documentation, and laboratory records.
• Ability to plan, coordinate, and conduct internal audits and prepare for external assessments.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to train, mentor, and collaborate effectively with laboratory staff.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and make sound decisions that support laboratory quality, compliance, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Completion of two years of college with major coursework in chemistry, biology, microbiology, or other related laboratory science.
• Three years of water or wastewater laboratory analysis experience, including QA/QC, data validation, or quality systems responsibilities.
• Possession of the California Water Environment Association (CWEA) Laboratory Analyst Grade III Certificate or the American Water Works Association (AWWA) Water Quality Analyst Grade III Certificate is required.
• Possession of a valid California Class C Driver’s License and a satisfactory driving record are conditions of initial and continued employment.

Skills

• Detail-oriented quality assurance professional.
• Collaborative leader with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communicator with the ability to train and mentor laboratory staff.
• Organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Independent decision-maker with a commitment to quality, compliance, and continuous improvement.

Benefits

• Medical Insurance at affordable rates - City covers up to 85% of Kaiser premium, other plans are also available.
• Vision and Dental Insurance monthly premiums covered 100% by the City.
• Healthcare double coverage opt-out incentive of $3,000 per year for eligible employees.
• Paid sick leave, vacation leave, thirteen holidays and two floating holidays a year.
• Tuition reimbursement and student loan repayment up to $2,200 per fiscal year.
• Deferred compensation plan with City contribution, no employee match required.
• California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) plan enrollment and Retiree Health Savings account.