1

Wastewater Lab Jobs in Putney, VT (NOW HIRING)

Wastewater Lab information

See Putney, VT salary details

$9

$24

$43

How much do wastewater lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater lab in Putney, VT is $24.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $26.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 near Putney, VT are hiring for Wastewater Lab jobs?

Cities near Putney, VT with the most Wastewater Lab job openings:

Infographic showing various Wastewater Lab job openings in Putney, VT as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,562 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Industrial Treatment Plant Operator (Putney, VT)

Marcal

Putney, VT

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Summary: The Lab Technician support the Company's process water and wastewater. Responsible for maintaining environmental records, reviewing systems currently in place to maintain regulatory compliance and optimizing system performance to maximize water quality. Principal Responsibilities: Collect process water and wastewater sampled for quality control and compliance monitoring.

Perform lab testing as required on collected samples. Analyze results. Compile and maintain all pertinent quality data.

Ensure lab instrumentation is properly used and maintained. Complete documentation related to production processes. Performs routine laboratory testing, following the relevant company's Standard Operating.

Procedures (SOP's) and methods. Validate performance on methods as required. Ensure compliance with all required local and federal safety processes and procedures.

Demonstrates good and safe work habits and enforces a clean working environment. Perform general upkeep and housekeeping of the laboratory. Accurately complete and maintain all laboratory reports.

May be required to receive, sort, log client samples into the database, and prepare sample labels. May be required to archive, return, or dispose of client samples as per the established procedure. Perform daily, weekly, and monthly Quality Assurance/Quality Control checks on equipment.

Assist in keeping inventory of laboratory chemicals and equipment necessary for the day to day functioning of the laboratory and in compiling list of supplies to be ordered when needed. Assists in calibration/verification tasks and other ISO 17025 related activities. Ensure all personal protective equipment (PPE) relevant for tasks is worn at all times.

Ability to work in fast-paced, high-speed environment and follow standardized work in a continuous improvement environment. Adhere to all safety rules, procedures and internal standards. Attend all crew/safety meetings.

Perform other duties as assigned. Requirements: Minimum High School Diploma or equivalent (GED). Familiarity with laboratory equipment.

Ability to understand verbal & written instructions in English including, but not limited to the ability to read and comprehend instruction manuals, instruction sheets, training manuals, and other verbal/computer-based training. Ability to navigate various computer applications for data collection and reporting purposes. Ability to work a 12-hour Dupont swing shift.

Must be able to wear all required personal safety equipment including eye protection, safety vest and ear protection Essential Functions: Be able to stand for long periods of time. Equipment Used: Ability to work under conditions that may require use of company provided person protective equipment