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Western Environmental
Testing Laboratory
WETLAB, Your Local Source for Organics Testing

Make WETLAB your local go-to source for all organic testing needs. 

At Western Environmental Testing Laboratory (WETLAB), we feel passionately about our role in the testing and betterment of our local environment and the communities in which we live and play. Our team may be experts in environmental testing, but we also pride ourselves on our local and regional knowledge and have developed an array of products and services specific to the western U.S. to meet the needs of our clients in Nevada, California, Idaho, and Wyoming.

Analysis EPA Method
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) 524.2, 624, and 8260
TCLP VOC 1312/8260
Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons (TPH)
for Gas (GRO), Diesel (DRO),
Oil Range Organics (ORO)
8015B and 8015M
Total Trihalomethanes (TTHM) 524.2
Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) 552.3

We perform testing to comply with the following programs: 

  • CWA
  • NPDES
  • RCRA
  • SDWA

Our personnel have experience with sample matrices that range from typical water and soil matrices to raw sewage and hazardous wastes. 

WETLAB provides comprehensive analytical support on a variety of matrices including: 

  • Wastewater
  •  Sludge
  • Groundwater
  • Surface Water
  • Filters
  • Drinking Water
  • Rocks
  • Soil

For more information, or to schedule a pickup, please call the WETLAB office nearest you.

Sparks (775) 355-0202
Elko (775) 340-3173
Las Vegas (702) 475-8899

Contact WETLAB

Visit us at Western Environmental Testing Laboratory (WETLAB)

In 2023, WETLAB has undergone significant enhancements to its capabilities and capacity, positioning itself to better serve clients with more improvements slated for 2024. The acquisition of multiple new instruments, including two additional ICPMS instruments, has increased analytical capacity, particularly for tests requiring ICPMS analysis. Notably, the company achieved a 50% reduction in time-to-client for high production tests, aided by staff increases, cross training, and new instrument purchases.

WETLAB has also broadened its offerings by introducing a new GC-ECD instrument in the chromatography department for HAA5 analysis, addressing regional needs in disinfection by product testing for drinking water. This move allows for better control of analysis processes and meets client demands more effectively.

Looking ahead, WETLAB anticipates the addition of two ion chromatography (IC) instruments to further enhance capacity and mitigate potential delays. With a successful year of growth in 2023, WETLAB is poised for further improvements and exciting opportunities in 2024.

Andy Smith, Laboratory Director

In 2023, we set out to improve efficiency through the introduction of new approaches to technology. We introduced tools and programs, both internally and externally, to improve efficiency and offer additional conveniences and engagement opportunities to our clients.

Our next big initiative will be the launch of our Client Portal, a tool to improve communication, collaboration, security, and create a more streamlined and personalized experience for our clients. The goal of the portal is to provide you with centralized access to information, real-time collaboration with WETLAB client services staff, enhanced security, and 24/7 accessibility to your data. We are currently in the beta testing phase of the portal. If you are interested in participating, please reach out to Caitrianna.

Kara Ansell, Informations Systems Manager

In 2023, WETLAB dedicated its efforts to enhancing the client experience by revamping internal procedures, increasing client visits, and actively seeking and acting upon client feedback. Our client services team successfully achieved this by updating client services documents based on your feedback, and implementing procedural changes to elevate the overall experience.

One notable initiative included the standardization of the client operating procedures across all of our locations. Based on the feedback WETLAB received, our biggest opportunity was to reduce our time-to-client. We were able to drastically improve our turnaround times by implementing an internal hold time alert system, improving tracking to provide accurate time frames and due dates upon receiving a sample and increasing our capacity.  For more information on those efforts, CLICK HERE.

At WETLAB our client engagement is what sets us apart. We strive to work with our clients to provide the best experience possible. All of these milestones have contributed to achieving our 2023 goal of increasing client engagement and communication. As we look forward to evolving in 2024, client engagement remains a priority, and feedback from you, our clients, is necessary for continuous improvement.

 

Caitrianna Bishop, Client Services Manager

In Our WETLAB World

NAE Training Recap

Our WETLAB managers participated in the Fundamentals, and Advanced Skills seminars, hosted by Nevada Association of Employers (NAE) this year. These training sessions aid supervisors with a better understanding of regulatory laws, how to troubleshoot uncomfortable situations, strengthen their leadership skills, and so much more! Learn more at https://www.nevadaemployers.org/supervisor-training/.

 

HAA5 Certification 

We are excited to announce the new Certification of Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) by EPA Method 553.2, granted by the State of Nevada last month, expanding our Sparks lab testing capabilities. The addition of HAA5, in conjunction with the Trihalomethanes (TTHM) certification, which we’ve held since 2022, further solidifies our position as a trusted partner in drinking water compliance testing. To learn more click here .

 

In Our Industry

NMA Annual Convention

Garry Gray and Mckenna Oh had the awesome opportunity to attend the 2023 Nevada Mining Association (NMA) Conference which was held in South Lake Tahoe on September 6th through 9th.

Nevada Water Resources Association (NWRA) Fall Symposium

The two-day event featured 26 presentations, a dozen exhibitors (including WETLAB) and provided an excellent opportunity to interact with the various presenters and water related entities from Nevada.

ACG Mine Closure Conference recap and Great Basin Hospitality Night

We enjoyed partaking and learning at the International Conferences on Mine Closure which was held locally in Reno, NV this year. The series provides topical and high-quality papers and presentations on a range of topics of immediate interest and relevance. A key feature of the conference series is the diversity of disciplines and expertise that come together to focus on the pressing issues facing the mine closure community globally. We topped off the conference by co-hosting Great Basin Hospitality Night with SRK and National Drilling.

 

In Our Community

Reed High School Girls Golf Sponsorship

Thanks to an invite from RICH, WETLAB Sponsored the Reed High School Golf Tournament.

 

Bringing the Holiday Spirit to the Northern Nevada State Veterans Home

Our team gathered together to make ornaments for the residents of the Northern Nevada State Veterans Home. We are hopeful our contributions bring joy and merriment to their holiday seasons!

Northern Nevada State Veterans Home is the premier long-term care and rehabilitation facility in Sparks, providing post-acute rehabilitation, extended skilled nursing care, and specialized memory care. Eligibility for the Northern Nevada State Veterans Home includes U.S. Veterans who have served active duty, spouses of Veterans, and Gold Star Parents. For more information visit their website here.

We are excited to announce the new Certification of Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) by EPA Method 553.2, granted by the State of Nevada last month, expanding our Sparks lab testing capabilities. The addition of HAA5, in conjunction with the Trihalomethanes (TTHM) certification, which we’ve held since 2022, further solidifies our position as a trusted partner in drinking water compliance testing.

Haloacetic Acids-5 (HAA5) is a group of five specific disinfection byproducts that can form when chlorine or other disinfectants react with organic and inorganic matter in water during the water treatment process. The five specific acids included in HAA5 are monochloroacetic acid, dichloroacetic acid, trichloroacetic acid, monobromoacetic acid, and dibromoacetic acid.

Importance & Benefits of Certification

  1. Public Health Protection – Certified laboratories play a vital role in safeguarding public health, reliable information allows water treatment facilities to make informed decisions to mitigate health risks associated with disinfection byproducts, ensuring the safety of drinking water.
  2. Regulatory Compliance – Ensures standards and methodologies are met when analyzing levels of HAA5 in water samples, accurate and reliable data are necessary for water treatment facilities to meet regulatory standards.
  3. Credibility and Trust – When laboratories are accredited for HAA5 analysis, it instills trust in regulatory agencies, water treatment facilities, and the public. This trust is essential for maintaining the integrity of water quality monitoring and management.
  4. Standardization of Processes & Sustainable Operations – Certification promotes the standardization of testing procedures, methodologies, and reporting. Consistent practices across laboratories ensure uniformity in HAA5 measurements, facilitating accurate comparisons and evaluations of water quality data.
  5. Enhanced Water Quality Management – Certification contributes to the overall improvement of water quality management by establishing standardized testing procedures. This consistency allows for better monitoring, analysis, and decision-making regarding water treatment strategies.

Certification Process

  1. Laboratory Accreditation – Accreditation ensures that the laboratory follows recognized standards and meets specific competency requirements.
  2. Method Validation – demonstrating the accuracy, precision, and reliability of the chosen methodology in measuring HAA5 levels in water samples.
  3. Quality Assurance and Control – implementing a robust quality assurance and control program that  includes regular calibration of equipment, proficiency testing, and adherence to standard operating procedures to ensure the accuracy and reliability of results.
  4. Participation in Interlaboratory Studies/Proficiency Testing Programs – external validation helps confirm the laboratory’s analytical competency and proficiency in HAA5 analysis.

Criteria and Parameters in the Certification Process

  1. Methodological Rigor – Demonstrate adherence to standardized procedures to ensure the accuracy and reliability of results.
  2. Analytical Performance – Meet specific performance criteria, such as precision, accuracy, and detection limits, when analyzing HAA5 in water samples.
  3. Compliance with Regulatory Standards – Demonstrate the ability to analyze HAA5 levels in accordance with regulatory standards, including the determination of compliance with established Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs).
  4. Quality Management Systems – Implementation of a comprehensive quality management system that encompasses documentation, traceability, and continuous improvement processes to ensure the overall reliability of laboratory operations.

We look forward to better serving our clients and community with our new testing capabilities.

POSITION SUMMARY: This is an Entry to Mid- level position performing a variety of laboratory procedures using established methods and techniques under general guidance. This position is part of a flexible and dynamic team that works together to meet challenging demands that are essential to our clients’ operations. Previous work or education in chemistry, environmental science, microbiology, or a related field is preferred but we will happily train an enthusiastic and promising candidate.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & BASIC DUTIES:

  • Wet Chemistry Scientists are responsible for testing and/or preparation activities and other tasks as necessary in a laboratory environment.
  • Must be able to perform a variety of laboratory procedures using established methods and techniques under general guidance.
  • Primary duties include the analysis of water and soil samples with microbiological and bench/wet chemistry tests and the proper maintenance and operation of the laboratory equipment.
  • Secondary duties include assisting other team members in inorganic procedures.
  • Data logbooks must be maintained and data is also entered into our LIMS.
  • Wet Chemistry Scientists clean, disinfect and maintain laboratory workspace and equipment.
  • Prepare samples for analysis using distillation and digestion techniques. May include soil prep using sample crushers.
  • Analyzing samples for contaminants using various laboratory equipment (analytical balances, pipettes, filtration, pH meter, FIA, UV-VIS Spectrophotometer, etc.)
  • Setting and reading samples for microbiology tests (BOD, various coliforms, SRB and IRB, etc.)
  • Ensuring QC passes and data is properly recorded and entered into the computer LIMS
  • Maintaining and operating laboratory equipment
  • Training on bench methods and assisting other team-members

WET CHEMISTRY METHOD/TEST RESPONSIBILITIES (Example):

  • Acidity; auto-titrator
  • Alkalinity; auto-titrator
  • MBAS
  • FDS
  • Settleable Solids
  • TDS

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITY:

Knowledge of commonly used lab concepts, practices and procedures and relies on instructions, pre-established guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) to perform functions of the job.

  • Ability to perform and complete assigned task by due date
  • Ability to complete assigned duties as described by SOP
  • Passes internal quizzes
  • Able to achieve acceptable recovery in quarterly blind QC (PE) samples
  • Ability to keep a clean and orderly workspace
  • Ability to follow Quality Assurance Plan
  • Ability to follow Safety Program
  • Positive staff feedback, collaborative, respectful
  • MS Office Suite

EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE:

  • Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, environmental science or related field (preferred)
  • 0-1 years of experience or non-degreed with 1-3 years of experience.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL DEMANDS:

Physical Demands:The essential functions of the position may require frequent sitting, finger dexterity in both hands, near/far visual acuity, depth perception, field of vision accommodation and color vision; occasional bending, lifting/carrying of 10lbs or less, light grasping with non-dominant hand, firm/strong grasping with both hands; requires seldom reaching overhead, crouching, kneeling, climbing, pushing/pulling, and lifting/carrying up to 25 lbs. *Examples Only.

Mental Demands: The essential functions of the position require the ability to read and write simple material, have simple math skills, and the ability to perform simple and complex tasks; complete forms, perform clerical tasks, compile, information, work with precision, follow instructions, meet time requirements, memorization and problem-solving skills, and use of independent judgment.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Overtime and occasional weekend or holiday work may be required. The ideal candidate will have great attention to detail and will be friendly, flexible, team-oriented, and able to multi-task. Final candidate must pass a pre-hire background check and drug testing. The Wet Chemistry Scientist I is responsible for recording observations and measurements and reporting results.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $17.00 – $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Schedule:

  • 10 hour shift
  • 8 hour shift
  • Day shift
  • Monday to Friday

Supplemental pay types:

  • Bonus pay

Ability to commute/relocate:

  • Sparks, NV 89431: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Experience:

  • Laboratory experience: 1 year (Required)

Work Location: In person

Western Environmental Testing Laboratory (WETLAB) with locations in Sparks, Elko, and Las Vegas, Nevada is a full service, fun, and fast-paced client-oriented environmental testing laboratory. WETLAB sets itself apart from the usual environmental laboratory by providing superior customer service and we pride ourselves on developing lasting client relationships. WETLAB is currently accepting resumes for a Client Services Specialist in our Sparks, NV laboratory. We ask that all potential candidates reply to this posting and include their resume.

Job Title: Sample Control

Reports to: Sample Control Lead

Job Description:

This position is part of a flexible and dynamic team that works together to meet challenging demands that are essential to our clients’ operations. Primary duties include: processes sample receiving, sample login, sample splitting/preservation, constructs bottle kits, makes acid vials, maintains coolers, assisting with Project Management functions including (but not limited to) issuing of reports, database uploads, invoicing, and pre-project planning. corresponds with clients via email, phone, and in-person to ensure client satisfaction. Candidate also assists with receiving inventory, driving courier routes, and will answer basic client questions, as needed. The ideal candidate will have great attention to detail, will be friendly, flexible, and team-oriented. Must be able to lift up to 50lbs frequently and willing to work overtime when required. Final candidate must pass a pre-hire background check and must have and maintain a clean driving record.

Performance Measures:

Meet Daily/Weekly/Monthly Standards

Performs and completes assigned task by due date

Excellent client feedback

Completes assigned duties as described by SOP

Maintain supply stock in working area(s)

Keep a clean or orderly workspace

Follow Quality Assurance Plan

Follow Safety Program

Experience Requirements:

This is an entry level position requiring a high school diploma and 0-2 years of experience in a Customer Service, Chemistry, or another related field. A B.S. degree in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, or related subject is preferred, but not required. Must have and keep a clean driver’s license, pass a drug test and background check. Must be able to lift up to 50lbs frequently. Stand, sit walk or drive for extended periods. Some weekend work or over time may be required.

$17.00 – $18.00 per hour D.O.E. (Non – Exempt Employee)

Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance $15/month! (*)

401 K with Company Match (*)

(*) Full-Time Employees only. Full-time employes are defined as permanent, non-seasonal staff who are scheduled and work 32 or more hours per week.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $17.00 – $18.00 per hour

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Parental leave
  • Vision insurance

Schedule:

  • 10 hour shift
  • 8 hour shift
  • Day shift
  • Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:

  • Sparks, NV 89431: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Benefits

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Full job description

POSITION SUMMARY: Entry level position in the Laboratory Department performing a variety of laboratory procedures using established methods and techniques under immediate supervision.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & BASIC DUTIES:

Chromatography Laboratory Scientist 1 (GS 1) is responsible primarily responsible for preparing samples for laboratory analysis and other tasks as necessary in a Chromatography Group. Perform a variety of laboratory procedures using established methods and techniques under immediate supervision. GS 1 operates may operate instrumentation and/or conducts experiments under immediate supervision. GS 1 is responsible for recording observations and measurements and reports results. GS 1 cleans, disinfects and maintains laboratory workspace and equipment. This is an entry level position and requires 0-2 years of experience in an environmental laboratory or related field. Has knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices and procedures and relies on instructions, pre-established guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) to perform functions of the job. GS 1 works under immediate supervision. This is an entry level position that requires a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, environmental science, or related field with 0-1 years of experience or non-degreed with 1-3 years of experience.

PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS:

  • Meets daily standard requirements – reviewed weekly with Group Lead (or designee)
  • Meet order due dates – daily updates with Group Lead (or designee) to determine sample needs for the work day
  • Maintains acceptable attendance record – as set forth in the WETLAB Employee Handbook
  • Participates in, and maintains a safe workplace
  • Produces high quality data, continuously working to minimize errors, always following laboratory Standard Operating Procedures and policies

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITY:

  • MS Office
  • Performs and completes assigned task by due date
  • Completes assigned duties as described by SOP
  • Keep a clean or orderly workspace
  • Follow Quality Assurance Plan
  • Follow Safety Program
  • Reliable and punctual attendance
  • Glassware cleaning
  • Prepare laboratory reagents according to SOP

EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE:

Coursework chemistry, biology, environmental science or related field (preferred)

CERTIFICATES AND LICENSES:

N/A

PHYSICAL/MENTAL DEMANDS:

Physical Demands: The essential functions of the position may require frequent sitting, finger dexterity in both hands, near/far visual acuity, depth perception, field of vision accommodation and color vision; occasional bending, lifting/carrying of 10lbs or less, light grasping with non-dominant hand, firm/strong grasping with both hands; requires seldom reaching overhead, crouching, kneeling, climbing, pushing/pulling, and lifting/carrying up to 25 lbs. *Examples Only

Mental Demands: The essential functions of the position require the ability to read and write simple material, have simple math skills, and the ability to perform simple and complex tasks; complete forms, perform clerical tasks, compile, information, work with precision, follow instructions, meet time requirements, memorization and problem-solving skills, and use of independent judgment.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Overtime and occasional weekend or holiday work may be required. The ideal candidate will have great attention to detail and will be friendly, flexible, team-oriented, and able to multi-task. Final candidate must pass a pre-hire background check and drug testing. The Wet Chemistry Scientist I is responsible for recording observations and measurements and reporting results.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $18.00 – $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Schedule:

  • 10 hour shift
  • 8 hour shift
  • Day shift
  • Monday to Friday

Supplemental pay types:

  • Bonus pay

Ability to commute/relocate:

  • Sparks, NV 89431: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Experience:

  • Laboratory experience: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Meet some of our WETLAB team members!

  • Meet Monica– With over 20 years of experience, Monica most recently worked as an HR consultant with experience including executive-level fiscal and people operations/HR management with hospitals, medical/biotechnology, human resources firms, California county, and the state of Nevada. Monica is a member of the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM), and has a Bachelor of Science in business management and an Associate of Art in criminal justice. In her new role as business office manager, she is responsible for managing the administrative support infrastructure of WETLAB’s daily operations, including office/facility management, supply chain activities, fleet management, AP/AR oversight and all human resources processes.

 

  • Meet Laura– a passionate and dedicated worker with an interest in and talent for scientific research. As quality assurance specialist at WETLAB, Laura is responsible for helping oversee data management, data quality, and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures & Methods. Laura attended the College of Wooster in Ohio, where she received her Bachelor of Arts in biology/biological sciences. Originally from California, she also served as a volunteer at the North Roseville REC Center, where she helped provide a safe and engaging environment for children from low-income families to play sports, visit the library, study, and experience positive social interaction with fellow peers.

 

  • Meet Vanessa– Vanessa is a chromatography scientist who helps analyze VOC samples, as well as assist in extracting and analyzing TPH samples. In addition, she also helps out the IC department by helping the analyst troubleshoot any instrumentations and software issues. Vanessa moved to Reno in 2014 to attend the University of Nevada, Reno. She graduated with her Bachelor of Science in chemistry with a minor in environmental science, and shortly thereafter started working at WETLAB. In her spare time, she enjoys going to the river, and hanging out with her dog, fiance, and friends. 

 

  • Meet Krysta– Krysta is a chromatography/organics analyst that is responsible for extracting, running, and analyzing samples. In her previous role, she worked at a local institute where she studied and analyzed air quality samples. She graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno with a Bachelor of Science in biology and a dual minor in biochemistry and chemistry.  When she’s not in the lab, Krysta serves at the cafe in the Grace Church every Sunday, and also coaches varsity volleyball for Truckee High School.