Chemist I

Salary : $65,253.00 - $77,926.00 Annually
Location : Lake Michigan Filtration Plant 17350 Lake Michigan Dr West Olive, MI
Job Type: Permanent
Job Number: [click to reveal phone number]673-0925
Department: Water
Opening Date: 09/05/2025
Closing Date: 9/15/2025 11:59 PM Eastern

Nature of Work
This is entry level professional work performing a variety of laboratory tests on water, sludge, and other substances using a wide variety of standard and specialized laboratory equipment, including computers. Work is performed under the general supervision of a supervisor. The employee may be expected to give guidance and assistance to less experienced employees.

The intent of this is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

• Conducts chemical and other analyses on water, sludge and other substances to determine identification and composition.
• Operates a wide variety of standard and specialized laboratory equipment; records measurements and other data.
• Conducts a variety of tests on water, soils and sludge, and other substances to ensure that environmental standards are met or to identify potential sources of diseases or other health problems.
• Prepares a variety of reports of test and analysis results.
• Calibrates, cleans, maintains, and stores equipment and instruments; washes sample containers; cleans and dusts laboratory equipment, countertops, and glassware.
• Collects samples; prepares reagents, standards, and test solutions used in testing process.
• Performs mathematical calculations based on raw laboratory data; maintains a variety of records and data; adapts data and records for computerization.
• Orders supplies and equipment; maintains proper inventory; writes bid specifications for new equipment as needed.
• Assures substances tested are disposed of properly and safely; assures quality control over all laboratory processes.
• May supervise or provide assistance to less experienced employees.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Training and Experience

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field

--AND--

• Some experience in conducting laboratory tests or closely related work

--OR--

• Any equivalent combination of training, education, and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities

Other Information
We Offer:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision starting on Day 1
• 6% employee 401a contribution with employer matching (6% or 7% based on bargaining unit)
• Employee & Employer contributions to Retiree Health Savings Account
• Voluntary benefits such as term life insurance, flexible spending accounts, accidental insurance, disability insurance, and deferred compensation plan options
• Twelve Paid Holidays
• Paid Vacation and Sick Time
• Paid parking (if applicable)
• Employee Home Ownership Incentive
• Tuition Reimbursement and professional development opportunities
• Paid Parental Leave
• Employee Assistance Program with free mental health counseling
• Comprehensive Wellness program with a health and wellness incentive
• Employee Discounts and Perks

Should an applicant need any disability related accommodation or other consideration in the application or selection process, please notify the human resources department upon submittal of application

The City of Grand Rapids does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy or gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.
01

Do you possess a bachelors degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field?

• Yes
• No

02

If you answered "Yes" to the previous question, please identify the field of study of your bachelor's degree. If you answered "No", please write N/A.
03

Do you possess work experience in conducting laboratory tests or closely related work?

• Yes
• No

04

If you answered "Yes" to the previous question, please describe your experience. If you answered "No", please write N/A.
Required Question