Engineering Assistant II (Drinking Water Quality Sampler)

Requisition ID: 44268 

Organization

Located on the traditional, ancestral and unceded lands of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Peoples, Vancouver has a commitment to becoming a City of Reconciliation. Vancouver consistently ranks as one of the world’s most liveable and environmentally sustainable cities. Named among Canada's Top 100 Employers, BC's Top Employers, and Canada's Greenest Employers, the City of Vancouver seeks colleagues who can help shape and embody our core commitments to sustainability, reconciliation, equity and outstanding quality of life for all residents.

Consider joining our committed team of staff and being part of an innovative, inclusive and engaging workplace. Working at the City of Vancouver and within the public service can be a rewarding career where you play a key role in ensuring impartial and equitable access to services, upholding ethical governance, and addressing the needs of citizens with integrity and dedication.

Main Purpose and Function
The Drinking Water Quality Sampler Engineering Assistant II position reports to Waterworks Design Branch within the City’s Engineering Department. The Drinking Water Quality Sampler works with a team that supports Drinking Water Quality Protection and Emergency Preparedness for the Drinking Water Utility. This role is responsible for collecting, testing and delivering drinking water samples throughout the City and recording results in accordance with Vancouver’s Drinking Water Quality Monitoring Program. The Drinking Water Quality Monitoring Program is a core regulatory requirement to monitor and protect the health and safety of the City’s drinking water.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

• Collects drinking water samples on a daily basis from dedicated sampling stations across the City and aseptically fills pre-labelled bottles according to prescribed sampling routines, policies and procedures.
• Conducts in-field water quality testing, including chlorine, pH, temperature, turbidity and conductivity.
• Identifies when results are out of desired range and reports to supervisor for further direction and action
• Collects and/or delivers other samples for specialized laboratory testing according to schedule; strict timelines must be followed to ensure samples are delivered on time for laboratory analysis.
• Uses, calibrates and troubleshoots handheld and onsite water quality testing instruments, including chlorine measuring kits, pH meters, conductivity meters, turbidimeters, and colourimeters.
• Handles chemicals and reagents throughout the course of their work.
• Follows detailed field sampling operations procedures and performs work according to safe operating procedures and standard operating procedures.
• Maintains records of water quality parameters, the date, time and location samples were taken, and temperature; enters data using field apps and computer-based data entry into City records management systems;
• Maintains inventory of water quality sampling and monitoring equipment, prepares bottles, work sheets and other related items for collection trips.
• Provides support to water quality investigations as directed.
• Other duties/responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications
Education and Experience:

• Completion of Grade 12 supplemented by post-secondary training in science, water system operation, laboratory techniques and/or other relevant area of study, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Sound knowledge of water quality sampling and testing procedures, water quality parameters, acceptable ranges, provincial and federal drinking water guidelines
• Ability to maintain detailed records and follow aseptic procedures for collection of drinking water samples
• Ability to use and calibrate sensitive field-testing equipment and to exercise care in handling collection bottles and chemicals
• Ability to recognize a suspect reading or instrument failure would be considered an asset.
• Ability to walk over distances, to lift and carry required equipment and kits  (5-10 kg), to exert sufficient physical effort to access sampling stations and perform field duties in all weather conditions
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills, written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to adhere to schedules and procedures, to deliver samples on time, to prepare bottles, work sheets and other related items for collection trips, and to maintain cleanliness and orderliness of laboratory and field equipment related to the work.
• Good mechanical aptitude and manual dexterity.
• Ability to work well in a team environment with little or no supervision under tight timelines
• Working knowledge of various computer software programs such as MS Excel, Outlook and Word

Drivers License and Record Checks

• Valid Class 5 BC Driver’s License or higher, with safe driving record and no restrictions that would affect the ability to legally and safely carry out job responsibilities 

Candidates must attach the following records and satisfy the City’s driving requirements to be considered for this role:

• Copy of your five-year ICBC Commercial Driver’s Abstract (N Print) directly from ICBC dated within 14 days of this posting
• Copy of your five-year ICBC Driver’s Claims History directly from ICBC within 14 days of this posting
• If you have less than five years driving experience in BC, a request must be made for out of province/country abstract and claims history

Business Unit/Department: Engineering Services (1300) 

Affiliation: CUPE 15 Non Pks 

Employment Type: Regular Full Time 

Position Start Date: November, 2025 

Salary Information: Pay Grade GR-017: $31.66 to $37.20 per hour

Application Close: September 26, 2025

At the City of Vancouver, we are committed to recruiting a diverse workforce that represents the community we so proudly serve. Indigenous peoples, people of colour, 2SLGBTQ+ persons including all genders and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.  Accommodations will be provided upon request during the selection process. Learn more about our commitment to diversity and inclusion. 

Before you click Apply now

Once you start your application you can save your work and leave the applications page, however please remember to submit your profile to the specific job requisition before the posting closing date.

In addition to uploading your cover letter and resume, part of the application process may include answering application questions related to the preferred requirements of the role which may take approx. 5-10 minutes. Cover letters should express interest and highlight additional information relevant to the position and resumes should include a summary of skills and experience related to the position.