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WSSC Water

Water Quality Specialist

Laurel, MD

Position Information Functional Title Water Quality Specialist Recruitment Category Type Standard ... Performs other related duties as assigned Work Environment And Physical Demands Professional lab ...

City of Leander

Water Quality Specialist

Leander, TX · On-site

$25.02/hr

... Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and Safe Water Drinking Act (SWDA). Administering the City's water quality and sampling programs; ensuring work quality and adherence to established policies and ...

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How much do environmental water quality jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for environmental water quality in the United States is $25.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Environmental Water Quality vs Environmental Water Quality?

AspectEnvironmental Water QualityEnvironmental Water Quality
Required CertificationsWater Quality Certification, Environmental Science DegreeWater Quality Certification, Environmental Science Degree
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, field sampling sites, regulatory agenciesLaboratories, field sampling sites, regulatory agencies
Industry UsageMonitoring and assessing water quality for environmental complianceMonitoring and assessing water quality for environmental compliance

Environmental Water Quality specialists focus on assessing and improving water conditions to meet environmental standards. They often hold certifications like Water Quality Certification and work in labs or field sites. The roles are similar in credentials and work environment, making them closely related in the industry.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in environmental water quality roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Environmental Water Quality often encounter challenges such as balancing regulatory compliance with practical field constraints, managing data from diverse sources, and adapting to rapidly changing environmental conditions. Effective collaboration with local agencies, stakeholders, and interdisciplinary teams is essential to address these issues. Staying current with technological advancements and ongoing training can help mitigate these challenges and ensure accurate water quality monitoring and reporting.

What is environmental water quality?

Environmental water quality refers to the chemical, physical, and biological characteristics of water in natural environments such as rivers, lakes, and groundwater. It is an important measure used to assess the health of aquatic ecosystems and the safety of water for human use. Professionals working in this field monitor pollutants, manage water resources, and develop strategies to improve or maintain clean water. Good water quality is essential for ecosystem health, public health, and sustainable development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an environmental water quality specialist?

To thrive as an Environmental Water Quality Specialist, you need a solid background in environmental science, chemistry, or biology, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with water sampling equipment, laboratory analysis techniques, and regulatory compliance systems (such as EPA standards) is essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills help professionals interpret data and convey findings to stakeholders. These skills ensure accurate monitoring, regulatory compliance, and effective protection of public health and the environment.
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What cities are hiring for Environmental Water Quality jobs? Cities with the most Environmental Water Quality job openings:
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Environmental Water Quality jobs near you
Infographic showing various Environmental Water Quality job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,620 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Water Quality Specialist

WSSC Water

Laurel, MD

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Position Information
Functional Title Water Quality Specialist Recruitment Category Type Standard Functional Category Production Grade GS.14 FLSA Status Exempt Requisition Number 27-0016 Number of Vacancies 1 Job Level Staff Job Code N/A Job Description Summary Organization Name Water Quality Reports to Section Manager, Water Quality Operations Full or Part Time Full Time If Part Time how many hours per week Regular or Temporary Regular Position End Date (if temporary) Work Schedule
Monday-Friday, 7:00am- 3:30pm
Position Location Silver Spring
Position Summary Information
General Summary
The Water Quality Specialist is responsible for helping to ensure production and distribution of safe water for the public while meeting regulations and customer satisfaction. Areas of responsibility include water quality monitoring, customer inquiry and complaint handling, regulatory compliance monitoring, and water quality emergency response.
Essential Functions
  • Investigates customer complaints, conducts water quality problem investigations, and works with the appropriate staff to identify problems, solutions, and preventive measures; may communicate directly with customers to coordinate investigation and sampling
  • Conducts technical analysis of water quality and operational data to support the Water Quality Division in developing logical solutions or alternatives to water quality problems, both immediate and long-term
  • Conducts complex computational work to analyze historical and current water quality data, including trending and forecasting analysis using spreadsheet and database tools
  • Serves as a standing member of the Contamination Rapid Response Team (CRRT); participates in all CRRT activities including proficiency training and exercises
  • Performs emergency response technical support and routine distribution system baseline water quality analysis
  • Maintains and operates online water quality monitoring systems and CRRT equipment for contaminant detection. Conducts routine services and minor repairs to maintain all monitoring equipment in good operational condition. Participates in training, exercises, and workshops
  • Routinely reports the operational status of monitoring systems to the Water Quality Response Section Manager
  • Coordinates with regional partners and their staff to exchange technical knowledge and maintain regional monitoring operation
  • Drives a vehicle to conduct WSSC Water business
Other Functions
  • May conduct Safe Drinking Water Act compliance sampling in the distribution system
  • May collect customer complaint samples, serving as a backup sampler
  • Reviews, approves, and enters all resulting data into the Materials Management Information System (MMIS), Water Quality Information Management System, and all other appropriate databases
  • Develops internal operating procedures for water quality operation
  • Trains new or subordinate staff
  • Performs major support tasks for the Response Section Manager/Division Manager, Water Quality
  • Assists in achieving compliance with new regulations that may affect the Commission's water treatment facilities
  • Provides technical advice/assistance to the Response Section Manager/Division
    Manager, Water Quality as necessary
  • Conducts special research projects for the Response Section Manager/Division Manager, Water Quality
  • Performs other related duties as assigned
Work Environment And Physical Demands
Professional lab and field environment
Required Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities
  • Thorough knowledge and understanding of source water protection, treatment processes, water distribution system, and water quality monitoring and emergency response
  • Thorough knowledge of federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing water quality and environmental compliance
  • Knowledge of the theories and practices in the fields of civil or environmental engineering, chemistry, microbiology, or biochemistry which are applied in water quality operation
  • Thorough knowledge of proper laboratory procedures and good laboratory practices (GLP)
  • Skill in operation of analytical instrumentation including routine maintenance and minor repairs; ability to coordinate with service contractors
  • Ability to interact with customers regarding water quality complaints effectively and professionally; ability to deliver superior customer service
  • Ability to gain knowledge of Material Safety Data Sheets, Safety Manual, and all WSSC Water emergency procedures
  • Ability to maintain detailed and accurate records
  • Ability to perform computational analyses of large and complex datasets
  • Ability to prepare comprehensive analytical reports and interpret test results
  • Ability to accurately perform chemical, bacteriological, or biological tests
  • Ability to follow complex verbal and written instructions
  • Ability to effectively prioritize work and manage time to meet tight deadlines and constant rush orders
  • Ability to establish and maintain amicable, effective working relationships
Minimum Education, Experience Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree
  • 3+ years of environmental science/engineering experience (or related work experience) in water supply, water quality, and/or water treatment/distribution system operations
  • Environmental laboratory analysis experience with water and/or wastewater

OR
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • 7+ years of environmental science/engineering experience (or related work experience) in water supply, water quality, and/or water treatment/distribution system operations
  • Environmental laboratory analysis experience with water and/or wastewater

Additional Requirements
  • Possession of a valid driver's license, with no more than 4 points, and the ability to obtain and maintain a WSSC Water driver's permit within 90 days of hire or transfer date
  • Employees in this position are designated or considered emergency personnel; therefore, the employee must report to work as scheduled or as directed by their supervisor when WSSC Water declares an event that requires emergency personnel to report to work
  • Must be able to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed on an on-call basis
Preferences
Experience in water security monitoring and consequence management practices
Salary 87,771- 149,448
Posting Detail Information
EEO Statement
WSSC Water is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and related conditions), gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, marital status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. We make employment decisions based on merit, qualifications, and business needs.
Reasonable Accommodations: WSSC Water provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and to individuals with sincerely held religious beliefs, practices, or observances, in accordance with applicable law. Applicants who require assistance or an accommodation during the application or hiring process should contact us atada@wsscwater.com
Close Date 08/20/2026 Open Until Filled No Special Instructions to Applicants Additional Information
All applicants selected will be subject to drug screening and a background check/verification.

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