JOB The City of Bend is accepting applications for one (1) regular, full-time Laboratory Technician I in the Water Quality Laboratory (WQL) Division. This is an hourly, non-exempt (overtime eligible) position represented by the City of Bend Employee Association (COBEA). The City may use this job posting to create an eligibility list for future hiring purposes. Please review the entire job posting, including the application requirements at the end.
This role plays a critical part in protecting public health and the environment by producing high-quality, legally defensible environmental data used across City operations. In this position, you’ll support water quality testing that informs day-to-day treatment decisions and long-term planning. A typical day may include preparing sampling kits, receiving and processing water samples, performing chemical and microbiological analyses, and ensuring all work aligns with strict quality and regulatory standards.
The Water Quality Laboratory is a collaborative, mission-driven team that supports regulatory compliance and operational excellence across the City. The lab operates seven days a week, requiring coordination and communication across staff to ensure timely and accurate results. This position offers strong opportunities for professional development in a supportive environment where contributions are recognized, and employees are encouraged to grow, innovate, and continuously improve lab processes.
Classification Framework: Laboratory Technician I
EXAMPLE OF DUTIES The following duties are a sample of major duties performed in this role and not intended to be an exhaustive list:
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Follow the laboratory’s Quality System, including data integrity and ethics standards
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Monitor sampling schedules and prepare bottle kits for field collection
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Receive, log, and batch incoming samples for analysis
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Perform chemical and microbiological testing using approved methods
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Maintain accurate records and review data for anomalies or irregularities
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Provide excellent customer service to internal and external laboratory clients
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Monitor inventory levels and coordinate ordering of supplies
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Receive and inspect laboratory purchases for quality and proper documentation
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Wash glassware and maintain laboratory equipment
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Perform routine quality assurance and control procedures
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Ensure compliance with sample preservation and holding time requirements
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Support sample subcontracting and shipping processes
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Maintain a safe working environment and follow all safety protocols
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Assist with basic reporting for a limited number of clients
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Respond to emergencies as needed to support essential public services
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Application Deadline
Applications must be received by July 1, 2026, at 12:00 PM (noon) Pacific Time to be considered for this selection process.
Application Requirements
To be considered for an interview, applicants must complete an online application including the following attachments:
Failure to include required attachments may result in disqualification.
Veterans’ Preference
Applicants seeking Veterans’ Preference as a qualified veteran or disabled veteran must attach appropriate documentation to their application. For more information click here.
Equity Statement:
The City of Bend remains committed to building a workforce that advances diversity and inclusion within our community and all we do. We recognize that not everyone starts from the same place, and that gender, race, ability, sexual orientation, and other identities face different barriers. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are dedicated to creating an inclusive, safe, and respectful workplace where employees can thrive without these barriers. A more extended version of the City of Bend’s Organizational Equity Statement is available upon request.
Benefits
The City of Bend offers an excellent competitive benefits package for employees and dependents for health and dental coverage, retirement benefits, and a robust paid leave program. Details are available on the benefits tab of the job posting.
Starting Compensation
Starting compensation is determined based on a pay equity analysis considering the candidate’s education, applicable work experience, and internal equity. Please include all relevant information on your application.
