ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Water Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WSSC Water

Water Quality Specialist

Laurel, MD

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 ...

Southwest Water Company

Operator Water IV

Birmingham, AL · On-site

Who We Are Nexus Water Group is a leading regulated water and wastewater utility serving more than 1.3 million people across 12 U.S. states and 2 Canadian provinces. "Nexus" means connection. Through ...

Nexus Water Group

Operator Water IV

Birmingham, AL · On-site

Who We Are Nexus Water Group is a leading regulated water and wastewater utility serving more than 1.3 million people across 12 U.S. states and 2 Canadian provinces. "Nexus" means connection. Through ...

Carroll Water

Water Treatment Specialist

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Water Treatment Technician Pay : (DOE) Schedule: Full-time position Build a Career in a Skilled Trade Are you looking for a hands-on career where you can stay active, solve problems, and work ...

Carroll Water

Water Treatment Specialist

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Water Treatment Technician Pay : (DOE) Schedule: Full-time position Build a Career in a Skilled Trade Are you looking for a hands-on career where you can stay active, solve problems, and work ...

Carroll Water

Water Treatment Specialist

Dover, DE · On-site

Water Treatment Technician Pay : (DOE) Schedule: Full-time position Build a Career in a Skilled Trade Are you looking for a hands-on career where you can stay active, solve problems, and work ...

Carroll Water

Water Treatment Specialist

Dover, DE · On-site

Water Treatment Technician Pay : (DOE) Schedule: Full-time position Build a Career in a Skilled Trade Are you looking for a hands-on career where you can stay active, solve problems, and work ...

Carroll Water

Water Treatment Specialist

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Water Treatment Technician Pay : (DOE) Schedule: Full-time position Build a Career in a Skilled Trade Are you looking for a hands-on career where you can stay active, solve problems, and work ...

Carroll Water

Water Treatment Specialist

Dover, DE · On-site

Water Treatment Technician Pay : (DOE) Schedule: Full-time position Build a Career in a Skilled Trade Are you looking for a hands-on career where you can stay active, solve problems, and work ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWater Jobs

Water information

See salary details

$35K

$86.8K

$142.5K

How much do water jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for water in the United States is $86,796.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,500.00 and $110,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are water jobs?

Water jobs refer to a wide range of careers focused on the management, treatment, distribution, conservation, and protection of water resources. These jobs include roles such as water treatment plant operators, hydrologists, water quality scientists, engineers, and technicians who work to ensure safe and sustainable water supplies. Professionals in this field may work for government agencies, utilities, environmental organizations, or private companies, addressing challenges like water scarcity, pollution, and infrastructure maintenance. Water jobs are essential for public health, environmental protection, and economic development.

What is the difference between Water vs Plumber?

AspectWaterPlumber
Required CredentialsNone specific, basic knowledge of water systemsTrade license or certification, plumbing apprenticeship
Work EnvironmentWater treatment plants, distribution systems, industrial sitesResidential, commercial, industrial plumbing installations and repairs
Industry UsageInvolves managing water supply and qualityFocuses on installing and repairing plumbing systems

While 'Water' refers broadly to water systems and management, a 'Plumber' is a skilled tradesperson specializing in installing and repairing plumbing systems. Both roles are interconnected, but plumbers require specific certifications and work directly with water infrastructure in various settings.

What are some common challenges faced by water treatment plant operators on a daily basis?

Water treatment plant operators often encounter challenges such as responding quickly to equipment malfunctions, maintaining strict regulatory compliance, and adapting to fluctuations in water quality due to weather or seasonal changes. They must work closely with maintenance staff and laboratory technicians to troubleshoot issues and ensure the safety and reliability of the water supply. Operators also need to stay updated on evolving technologies and best practices to optimize plant operations and meet environmental standards.

What jobs work in water?

Jobs that work in water include marine biologists, water treatment plant operators, aquarists, commercial divers, and oceanographers. These roles often require specialized training, certifications, and safety procedures to work in aquatic environments or with water-related systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water treatment plant operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Treatment Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of water chemistry, mechanical systems, and environmental regulations, typically supported by a high school diploma and relevant state certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and safety protocols is crucial for daily operations. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are important soft skills for monitoring system performance and responding to emergencies. These skills ensure the safe and efficient delivery of clean water, protect public health, and maintain regulatory compliance.
More about Water jobs
What cities are hiring for Water jobs? Cities with the most Water job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Water jobs? The most popular types of Water jobs are:
What states have the most Water jobs? States with the most job openings for Water jobs include:
Water jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,796 per year, or $41.7 per hour.

Water Quality Specialist

WSSC Water

Laurel, MD

Full-time

Posted 5 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.

Apply