Laboratory Technician
Description
Highlights of the job
EPCOR Water Services (EWS) is currently seeking one (1) temporary full-time Laboratory Technician to join the Engineering & Technical Services – Laboratory & Commercial Services QA team that are located at both the Rossdale Water Treatment Plant and the Gold Bar Wastewater Treatment Plant. This position is for a term of up to 11 months.
This opportunity is open to both internal and external applicants. Internal EPCOR employees: Please ensure you use your @epcor.com email address on your resume to ensure proper recognition of seniority.
What you’d be responsible for
Key Responsibilities
As a Laboratory Technician, you are accountable to the Laboratory Operations Manager and will be responsible for, but not limited to, the following:
Analytical Testing & Sample Collection
- Perform chemical, physical, and microbiological testing on water, wastewater, biosolids, sludge, and industrial samples in both laboratory and field settings.
- Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure accuracy and consistency.
- Collect field samples from EPCOR facilities, water distribution systems, and public locations across Edmonton.
- Transport samples to EPCOR or commercial laboratories for further analysis.
Laboratory Preparation & Equipment Maintenance
- Prepare chemical solutions, standards, reagents, and microbiological media for laboratory use.
- Operate, maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment including autoclaves, drying ovens, fume hoods, water purification systems, and analytical instruments.
- Ensure equipment is functioning safely and effectively through routine maintenance.
Quality Assurance & Data Management
- Conduct quality control checks, monitor control charts, and take corrective actions when results deviate from expected standards.
- Ensure compliance with internal QA/QC protocols and environmental regulations.
- Receive and log samples into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), ensuring accurate data entry and traceability.
Inventory & Housekeeping
- Monitor and maintain inventory of chemicals, reagents, and laboratory supplies.
- Perform general housekeeping duties such as cleaning and sterilizing sampling equipment, disposing of samples and hazardous waste, and preparing sampling bottles.
Scheduling & Team Support
- Complete daily, weekly, and weekend assignments as directed by the Lead Technologist and/or Laboratory Operations Manager.
- Collaborate with team members to meet performance metrics related to health & safety, environmental compliance, quality, customer service, and professional conduct.
What’s required to be successful
Qualifications, Experience & Behaviours
To be successful in this role, you will possess the following:
Education & Experience
- Completion of a 2-year diploma in Chemical, Biological, or Environmental Sciences from a recognized post-secondary institution.
- 1–3 years of experience working in a chemical, analytical, or environmental laboratory, preferably with water, wastewater, industrial, or environmental samples.
Knowledge & Regulatory Awareness
- Basic understanding of public and environmental health considerations related to drinking water and wastewater, including:
- Canadian Drinking Water Quality Guidelines
- Alberta Environment and Protected Areas regulations for drinking water and wastewater
Licensing & Driving Requirements
- Valid Class 5 Alberta Driver’s License
- Ability to qualify for and maintain an EPCOR driver’s permit
- A 5-year commercial driver’s abstract may be required (must have 6 or fewer demerits)
Technical Skills
- Proficient in:
- Performing analytical testing and laboratory procedures
- Using Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, Word, Teams)
- Working with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)
- Planning and organizing tasks to meet deadlines
Physical Requirements
- Able to meet the physical demands of the role, including:
- Lifting and carrying up to 20 kg (45 lbs) daily
- Passing a pre-placement medical and drug and alcohol screening
Personal Attributes
- Highly motivated with a strong work ethic and a commitment to safety
- Able to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment
- Demonstrates initiative, adaptability, and the ability to manage multiple priorities
- Strong communication skills and the ability to anticipate and respond to team needs
Other important facts about this job
Jurisdiction: CSU52
Class: T1
Starting Wage: $39.23 per hour
- Final wage placement will be determined at the time of selection and based on a combination of factors as outlined in the Collective Agreement (CA) that may be found online.)
Hours of work: 8:00am-4:30pm; 75 hours bi-weekly
- Please note that due to the nature of this position weekend work is required and is scheduled on a rotational basis.
Location of work: The successful candidate will be based out of both the Rossdale Water Treatment Plant and the Gold Bar Wastewater Treatment Plant in Edmonton, AB.
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Please note the following information:
- A requirement of working for EPCOR is that you are at least 18 years of age, successfully attained a high school diploma (GED, or equivalent level of secondary education) and legally entitled to work in Canada. (A copy of a valid work permit may be required.)
- If you are considered for the position, clearance on all applicable background checks (which may include criminal, identity, educational, and/or credit) and professional reference checks is required. Some EPCOR positions require an enhanced level of background assessment, which is dictated by law. These positions require advanced criminal record checks that must also be conducted from time to time after commencement of employment.
- A technical/practical assessment may be administered during the selection process and this exercise will be used as a part of the selection criterion.
- To meet the physical demands required of some positions, candidates must be in good physical condition and willing to work in all weather conditions. Clearance on pre-placement medical and drug and alcohol testing may be required.