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Wastewater Lab Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Water/Wastewater Operator

Culpeper, VA · On-site

$45K - $73K/yr

... Lab Manager, when needed Qualifications Education and Experience: Education equivalent to a high school diploma. Special Qualifications: Must possess satisfactory results of a criminal history ...

Analyze lab data, operator reports, and chemical usage to resolve operational issues and improve efficiency. Compliance and Safety: Ensure that treated wastewater meets municipal or industrial ...

Analyze lab data, operator reports, and chemical usage to resolve operational issues and improve efficiency. Compliance and Safety: Ensure that treated wastewater meets municipal or industrial ...

Analyze lab data, operator reports, and chemical usage to resolve operational issues and improve efficiency. Compliance and Safety: Ensure that treated wastewater meets municipal or industrial ...

Analyze lab data, operator reports, and chemical usage to resolve operational issues and improve efficiency. Compliance and Safety: Ensure that treated wastewater meets municipal or industrial ...

Lab experience is preferred but not required. * 3+ years' experience in wastewater treatment facility operation and maintenance; or any equivalent combination of education and experience, preferred.

... to the lab for more extensive analysis Makes adjustments to operating equipment and notifies ... of a valid Wastewater Operators License, ability to obtain, within 6 months, equivalent license ...

Wastewater Operator

Linville, VA · On-site

$20.25 - $28/hr

Willing to obtain wastewater certificate. Preferred Qualifications: * One or more years of ... Must be able to position one's self to maintain computers in the lab, including under desks and in ...

... wastewater facilities, and marine construction. For over 75 years, Kokosing has successfully ... Obtain all required fluid/oil samples and submit all fluid/oil samples to the Lab electronically

... wastewater facilities, and marine construction. For over 75 years, Kokosing has successfully ... Obtain all required fluid/oil samples and submit all fluid/oil samples to the Lab electronically

Laboratory Analyst

Manassas, VA · On-site

$64K - $112K/yr

Collects samples of wastewater, soils and solids residuals from a variety of locations throughout ... Lab, and for MS4 field work operations: Conducts preventative maintenance, calibration ...

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Wastewater Lab information

What is the difference between Wastewater Lab vs Wastewater Treatment Operator?

AspectWastewater LabWastewater Treatment Operator
CertificationsLab certifications, such as EPA or state-specific lab certificationsOperator licenses or certifications, such as state wastewater operator licenses
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, analyzing samples and conducting testsField and plant environment, managing treatment processes
Job FocusTesting water quality, analyzing data, ensuring complianceOperating and maintaining treatment equipment, process control

While both roles are essential in wastewater management, Wastewater Lab specialists focus on analyzing samples and ensuring water quality through testing, whereas Wastewater Treatment Operators manage the treatment processes on-site. Both require relevant certifications and work in related environments, but their daily tasks differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a wastewater laboratory technician?

To thrive as a Wastewater Laboratory Technician, you need a solid background in chemistry, biology, and environmental science, typically supported by an associate's or bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory instruments (such as spectrophotometers and pH meters), standard methods for water analysis, and sometimes state certification are essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong organizational skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure accurate testing, compliance with environmental regulations, and protection of public health.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a wastewater laboratory, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in a wastewater lab often face challenges such as handling hazardous samples, maintaining stringent quality control standards, and managing time-sensitive analyses. Ensuring accurate results requires meticulous attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols. Collaboration with plant operators and engineers is crucial for interpreting data and troubleshooting process issues. Regular training on new testing methods and regulatory standards also helps lab staff stay up-to-date and maintain compliance.

What is a wastewater lab?

A Wastewater Lab is a specialized laboratory where scientists and technicians analyze water samples from wastewater treatment plants to monitor and ensure water quality and regulatory compliance. The lab performs tests to detect contaminants, bacteria, and chemical levels in wastewater before and after treatment. These analyses help protect public health and the environment by ensuring that treated water meets safety standards before being released or reused.
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Wastewater Lab jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Wastewater Lab job openings:
Infographic showing various Wastewater Lab job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Water/Wastewater Operator

County of Culpeper

Culpeper, VA • On-site

$45K - $73K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Job Summary Does a career in an everchanging and advancing field interest you. Are you interested in learning about water and wastewater. Does the idea of working at a modernized and automated plant intrigue you.

How about working in an environment that is family oriented and community driven. If you said yes to any of these questions, you should consider coming to Culpeper County, with our advanced treatment plants, amazing staff, training, and opportunities for advancement. Responsible for performing a variety of duties related to the operation and maintenance of water and wastewater plants in accordance with State and Federal water quality regulations.

Pay is based on licensure level attained by the employee. Duties and responsibilities vary slightly depending upon licensure level. Job Functions ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Engages in the safe and compliant operation, and monitoring, of the County's water, wastewater treatment facilities, and distribution and collection systems Follows standard operating procedures and regulatory requirements for operating water and wastewater treatment systems Collects regulatory samples and maintains plant records and audit documentation Maintains appropriate inventories of chemicals, operator supplies and personal protective equipment Performs a variety of preventive maintenance tasks associated with operating water and sewer treatment systems and associated collection and distribution systems Reads water meters, conducts utility inspections, and supervises contractors Inspects construction of water and sewer utilities to ensure they are built to County standards Reading blueprints and document inspections NON-ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Performs general and preventive maintenance, supervise inmate or community service work force, when needed Class 1 and Class 2 Wastewater Operators may be assigned duties and responsibilities of the Water/Wastewater Lab Manager, when needed Qualifications Education and Experience: Education equivalent to a high school diploma.

Special Qualifications: Must possess satisfactory results of a criminal history background check. Requires Class 1-4 Wastewater and Water Operators licenses within specified time frame. Must possess and maintain a valid Virginia driver's license, Virginia Class B commercial driver's license preferred.

OSHA Industrial including lock out tag out procedures, confined space entry. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge of the principles, laws, procedures and regulations of water and wastewater treatment Knowledge of the biological, chemical, and physical processes of water and wastewater treatment Knowledge and ability to operate, monitor, and maintain water and wastewater plant machinery and equipment Ability to evaluate operational process performance and to select appropriate actions Knowledge of appropriate operational responses to emergency situations Ability to write accurate reports and maintain accurate records Skilled in using a computer and various software applications Ability to perform heavy physical work Ability to follow safety procedures Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team environment Working Conditions & Disclaimer PHYSICAL DEMANDS This position classifies the physical exertion requirements as heavy. Must be physically able to operate water/wastewater equipment.

Must be able to exert up to 100 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 25 pounds of force constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. May occasionally involve heavier objects and materials (up to 125 pounds). May be required to work afterhours, on weekends, or on call.

Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate colors or shades of colors. Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate depths. Some tasks require visual perception and discrimination.

Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate odors. WORK ENVIRONMENT Essential functions are regularly performed in at the various water/wastewater facilities. Tasks may risk exposure to chemicals, odors, machinery, wetness, dust, fumes, dirt, vibrations, electricity, driving and confined spaces.

Disclaimer The above information in this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performance by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications as required of employees assigned to this job. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Culpeper County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

General Sign-off: The employee is expected to adhere to all County policies and to act as a role model in the adherence to the policies. The above information in this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performance by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications as required of employees assigned to this job.

Culpeper County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Culpeper County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.