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Entry Level Water Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Bedford Regional Water Authority

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Water Operator Trainee - Entry Level

Bedford, VA · On-site

$38K - $45K/yr

The Bedford Regional Water Authority is seeking a Water Operator trainee to join our team. The candidate will perform skilled and responsible work related to the efficient, safe, and compliant ...

Bedford Regional Water Authority

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Water Operator Trainee - Entry Level

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$38K - $45K/yr

The Bedford Regional Water Authority is seeking a Water Operator trainee to join our team. The candidate will perform skilled and responsible work related to the efficient, safe, and compliant ...

R2T Inc.

Engineer 1

Alexandria, VA · On-site

We are looking for an entry-level Water/Wastewater Engineer to join a growing engineering group in our Alexandria, VA office. The Engineer will become an integral part of our team and will typically ...

Dewberry

Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$82K - $85K/yr

Individual may analyze hydrologic and hydraulic models and computations for storm water and ... Our entry-level program comes together on a regular basis for professional development events and ...

Dewberry

Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer

Gainesville, VA · On-site

$82K - $85K/yr

Individual may analyze hydrologic and hydraulic models and computations for storm water and ... Our entry-level program comes together on a regular basis for professional development events and ...

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All JobsWater JobsEntry Level Water JobsEntry Level Water Jobs in Virginia

Entry Level Water information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$20

$41

How much do entry level water jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level water in Virginia is $20.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.49 and $23.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and tasks can an Entry Level Water professional expect to work on in their first year?

As an Entry Level Water professional, you can expect to assist with water quality testing, sample collection, data entry, and reporting under the supervision of senior staff. You may participate in fieldwork such as monitoring water sources, maintaining equipment, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Collaboration with engineers, scientists, and regulatory agencies is common, providing valuable exposure to the broader water management process. This hands-on experience is foundational for understanding industry standards and advancing your career in water resources.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Water Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Water Technician, you need a basic understanding of water systems, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with water testing equipment, data logging software, and sometimes state-specific operator certifications are commonly required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and a willingness to learn help individuals stand out in this position. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient water system operations.

What is the difference between Entry Level Water and Entry Level Water Quality Technician?

AspectEntry Level WaterEntry Level Water Quality Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certifications in water safety or basic technical skillsHigh school diploma; certifications in water testing or environmental safety are common
Work EnvironmentFieldwork at water treatment plants, distribution systems, or environmental sitesField and laboratory work focused on water sampling, testing, and analysis
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal water departments, environmental agencies, private water companiesEnvironmental consulting firms, water testing laboratories, municipal agencies

Entry Level Water roles generally involve basic water-related tasks such as maintenance or monitoring, while Entry Level Water Quality Technicians focus more on sampling, testing, and analyzing water quality. Both positions require similar certifications and work in related environments, but the technician role emphasizes laboratory work and water analysis.

What are entry level water jobs?

Entry level water jobs are positions in the water industry that typically require minimal prior experience or education beyond a high school diploma or equivalent. These roles often include tasks such as water treatment plant operation, water quality testing, maintenance of water systems, or fieldwork assisting with water distribution and infrastructure. Entry level water jobs are ideal for those looking to start a career in environmental services, utilities, or public works, and they often provide on-the-job training and opportunities for advancement. Common employers include municipal governments, water utility companies, and environmental consulting firms.
What are the most commonly searched types of Water jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Water jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Water jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Water job openings:
Entry Level Water jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Water job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,602 per year, or $21 per hour.
Entry Level Water Resources Engineer

Entry Level Water Resources Engineer

Dewberry

Gainesville, VA

$82K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Dewberry rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Dewberry is currently seeking an Entry Level Water Resources Engineer to perform water resource work in our Gainesville, VA office.  Individual will develop concept and final design of stormwater facilities/treatment, perform floodplain studies, analyze stormwater quality, design stream restoration, dam design, dam retrofit, and perform dam break studies among other projects and tasks.

Dewberry is a leading, market-facing professional services firm with more than 60 locations and 2,500 professionals nationwide. What sets us apart from our competitors is our people. At Dewberry, we seek out exceptional talent and strive to deliver the highest quality of services to our clients. Whether you’re an experienced professional or a new graduate, you’ll have the chance to collaborate with the best and brightest and work on innovative and complex projects at the forefront of the industry. Our commitment to excellence stems from our personal integrity and from other defining attributes, which we call “Dewberry at Work,” that have inspired our employees to be successful for more than a half-century.


  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering with a focus in Water Resources or related field is required
  • Knowledge of floodplain delineation, storm water management, culvert and bridge hydraulics, and drainage design
  • 0 - 1 year of experience; previous internship(s) preferred
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills are required
  • Proficiency in MS Office software
  • Ability to work in a team environment

Don’t meet every single requirement? At Dewberry we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace for our employees. So if you’re excited about this role, but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the position description, we encourage you to apply anyways. You may just be the right candidate for this or other opportunities.

*At this time, Dewberry will not sponsor a new applicant for work authorization.

*Dewberry is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or sexual orientation.

*Only recipients of an offer of employment from Dewberry will be required to submit to a background screening which may include, but is not limited to, employment verification, educational and other credential verification, driving record check, criminal background check, and an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry’s background vendor of choice and will be conducted in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local law.

Notice to Third Party Recruiters:  Dewberry only compensates job placement recruiters that have a valid Dewberry-approved written agreement in place for recruiting services. Dewberry does not compensate third party recruiters for unsolicited job placement candidate information.


The projected range for this position is $82,500 - $85,000 annually. Depending upon other factors, i.e., skills, experience, location, market conditions, the range may vary slightly.


As an entry-level hire, you’ll be part of a class of peers with 0-1 year of professional experience. Our entry-level program comes together on a regular basis for professional development events and team building activities led by an advisory team to:

  • Form lasting connections with peers in your class.
  • Gain a better understanding of career growth and meaningful opportunities to align with your professional goals.
  • Expand your knowledge of Dewberry and what we do.

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