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Wastewater Lab Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Asphalt Density Technician

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

Knowledge of lab scientific protocols is a must. Overview Our Company Does Work That Matters Allan ... and wastewater systems that provide clean water to your home and keep our streams clean. We take ...

Asphalt Density Technician

Fairfax, VA

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

Knowledge of lab scientific protocols is a must. Overview Our Company Does Work That Matters Allan ... and wastewater systems that provide clean water to your home and keep our streams clean. We take ...

... wastewater, on-demand emergency services. We are a proud representative of Tully Group (www ... testing lab to produce and place mass concrete. * Conduct daily meetings with Thalle quality ...

Posted today

CDL B Driver

Fredericksburg, VA · On-site

$26 - $27.50/hr

... water and wastewater treatment, commercial and hazardous waste collection and disposal, energy ... Properly process lab packs and prepare manifests and LDR's for hazardous waste shipment (according ...

Technician - Brewing

Elkton, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

Must have an understating of up and down stream processes, including utilities and wastewater ... Responsible for autonomous maintenance of lab equipment, valves, motors, pumps, filter and ...

... edge water, wastewater, and public works services to municipalities, utility districts, and ... O., and CL2 residual; analyzes results and makes process control changes based on these lab results ...

... Support, and Wastewater Management to a broad range of business partners across North America ... Any applicant who refuses to submit to a drug test or is suspected by the lab to have tampered with ...

Showing results 21-40

Wastewater Lab information

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 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 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 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 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Quality Assurance Specialist

Upper Occoquan Service Authority

Centreville, VA • On-site

$85K - $136K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Description
Ready to advance the future of water!
Quality Assurance Specialist
Grade 1
$85,049 - $136,079
Open: July 28, 2026 ? Close: August 11, 2026
*Starting salary will be between minimum and midpoint in the range. Until renovations are complete you will need to be comfortable traveling between our headquarters and our temporary off-site lab in Manassas, VA.
WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING
The Quality Assurance Specialist (QAS) is an entry-level quality assurance role designed to develop foundational expertise in laboratory quality systems, regulatory compliance, and data integrity within a Virginia Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (VELAP), a Chapter 45 certified wastewater laboratory. This position requires substantial hands-on experience in environmental or wastewater laboratory testing. The QAS is expected to bring strong analytical knowledge, familiarity with Standard Methods, EPA methods, 40 CFR Part 136, and a solid understanding of routine laboratory operations. The QAS supports the daily implementation and maintenance of the laboratory's quality system while learning the regulatory framework governing accredited environmental testing laboratories, including TNI (The NELAC Institute) standards, Virginia's Chapter 45 and applicable local, state, and federal regulations. Working under the guidance of the Quality Assurance Officer (QAO), the QAS assists with quality control (QC) review, documentation, internal audits, and regulatory preparedness activities. This role provides structured training, hands-on experience, and progressive responsibility. Your work will be a critical component of UOSA's Vision to be globally recognized for its leadership in protecting the region's water resources.
WHO YOU ARE
Quality Systems Professional:You have a strong foundation in environmental laboratory operations and understand how quality assurance principles support the generation of accurate, defensible, and compliant analytical data. You are experienced with laboratory testing methods, quality control requirements, and the importance of maintaining data integrity in a regulated environment.
Quality & Compliance Advocate:You are committed to maintaining high standards of quality and regulatory compliance. You understand the importance of following SOPs, accreditation requirements, and QA/QC procedures, and you help ensure the laboratory remains audit-ready and aligned with VELAP, TNI, and applicable local, state, and federal regulations.
Detail-Oriented Data Reviewer:You possess exceptional attention to detail and a strong analytical mindset. You enjoy reviewing laboratory data, quality control results, and documentation to verify accuracy, identify potential issues, and support corrective actions that strengthen laboratory performance and compliance.
Collaborative Laboratory Partner:You work effectively with laboratory staff, auditors, and stakeholders to promote a culture of quality. You communicate clearly, provide constructive support, and help reinforce consistent adherence to approved methods, quality standards, and laboratory best practices
Requirements
REQUIREMENTS
• A Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Biology, or other related field is required; from a four-year college or university. However, any equivalent combination of education, experience, and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be acceptable.
• Must have a minimum of three years of experience in an analytical environmental laboratory.
• Must have a strong background in qualitative, quantitative and instrumental analytical chemistry.
• Must be familiar with all analyses performed in the UOSA Laboratory and able to conduct all general laboratory analyses.
  • Requires familiarity with basic Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) principles.
  • Ability to review laboratory data, QC results, and documentation for accuracy and compliance.
  • Ability to learn and apply regulatory requirements related to laboratory operations.
  • Assists with the preparation, revision, and maintenance of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and quality documents.
  • Communicates effectively in both written and verbal formats.
  • Demonstrates strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Works collaboratively and professionally with laboratory staff and auditors.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
  • Experience with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) or other laboratory software is desirable.
  • Understanding of basic statistical concepts used to evaluate QC trends is beneficial.
  • Able to distinguish colors and odors associated with laboratory testing and analysis.

• Must be able to lift and carry 30 pounds and safely move, connect, and disconnect compressed gas cylinders using the appropriate tools and equipment. Must be able to move and carry heavy packages of liquid and dry chemicals and other laboratory supplies.
• Possession of a vehicle operator's license valid in the Commonwealth of Virginia is required.