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Water Chemist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TCEQ - Chemist II

Sugar Land, TX · On-site

$4.7K/mo

Are you an experienced Chemist, ready for a unique opportunity to grow with an environmental state ... This position is a member of our Water Quality Planning Division. HERE'S WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

Chemist

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$4.7K - $9.1K/mo

Under direction of the Chief Engineer I, the Chemist works as the Laboratory Director, and performs a variety of responsible professional and complex chemistry work within the Water Quality ...

Carry out routine day-to-day quality control testing of Water, Raw Materials, Bulk, Finished ... Trains chemistry staff as needed. * Writes and revises SOPs as requested by management. * Performs ...

ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES Manager, Laboratory Services Laboratory Supervisor Water Quality Supervisor QA Reporting Specialist Chemist, Senior POSITION SUMMARY This position performs complex chemical ...

Chemist

Dallas, TX · On-site

ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES Manager, Laboratory Services Laboratory Supervisor Water Quality Supervisor QA Reporting Specialist Chemist, Senior POSITION SUMMARY This position performs complex chemical ...

Utility Senior Chemist

El Paso, TX · On-site

$62K - $94K/yr

Bachelor's Degree or higher in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Virology ... Conduct required analyses of water and wastewater samples to ensure water and wastewater quality ...

... water. * Maintain laboratory equipment and instrumentation (e.g., troubleshooting, conducting ... Advanced Analytical Chemistry: Expert ability to integrate analytical chemistry techniques (e.g ...

Wet Chemist

Akron, OH

$70K - $95K/hr

The Wet Chemist supports Research and Development by formulating, testing, and optimizing ... Formulate and develop water-based, oil-based, and emulsion-based products for dietary supplements ...

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Water Chemist information

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$17

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$52

How much do water chemist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for water chemist in the United States is $30.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $35.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by water chemists when analyzing samples from diverse water sources?

Water chemists often encounter challenges such as dealing with complex mixtures of contaminants, varying sample matrices, and low concentrations of target analytes. Ensuring the accuracy and reliability of results requires meticulous sample preparation, calibration of analytical instruments, and strict adherence to quality control protocols. Additionally, interpreting data in the context of environmental regulations and communicating findings to non-technical stakeholders can be demanding but is essential for effective water quality management.

What is the difference between Water Chemist vs Water Quality Technician?

AspectWater ChemistWater Quality Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in chemistry, environmental science, or related field; certifications may include state licensingHigh school diploma or associate degree; certifications like water treatment or laboratory testing are common
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, and field sampling sitesField sites, treatment plants, and laboratories
Employer & IndustryEnvironmental agencies, research institutions, private labsMunicipal water treatment facilities, environmental consulting firms

While both roles focus on water quality, Water Chemists primarily conduct detailed chemical analyses and research, often requiring advanced degrees. Water Quality Technicians typically perform routine testing and sampling to monitor water safety. Both roles are essential in maintaining water standards but differ in education requirements and scope of responsibilities.

What does a water chemist do?

A water chemist studies the chemical properties and processes of water to ensure its safety and quality for drinking, environmental, or industrial use. They analyze water samples for contaminants, monitor changes in water chemistry, and help develop methods for water treatment and purification. Water chemists also interpret laboratory results, prepare reports, and may advise on regulatory compliance or environmental impact. Their work is essential in maintaining public health and protecting natural water resources.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water chemist?

To thrive as a Water Chemist, you need a strong background in chemistry, analytical laboratory techniques, and a relevant degree such as chemistry, environmental science, or chemical engineering. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation (like spectrophotometers and chromatographs), water quality testing procedures, and certifications such as Certified Water Chemist (CWC) are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help ensure accurate results and successful collaboration with teams or regulatory bodies. These skills are vital to maintaining water safety, meeting regulatory standards, and supporting environmental and public health initiatives.
More about Water Chemist jobs

What cities are hiring for Water Chemist jobs?

Cities with the most Water Chemist job openings:

What states have the most Water Chemist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Water Chemist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Water Chemist job openings in the United States as of August 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 $64,466 per year, or $31 per hour.

Water Treatment Certified Operator

City of The Dalles, Oregon

The Dalles, OR

$60K - $84K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Water Treatment Certified Operator - Multiple Positions Available

City of The Dalles

First review of applications: June 30, 2026

Join the Team That Keeps Our Community's Water Clean and Reliable!

Compensation: $60,113.40–$84,524.25, based on experience, skills, and certification level

Department: Public Works – Wicks Water Treatment Plant

Status: Full-time, unioneligible

We are hiring multiple Water Treatment Operators! This recruitment may be used to fill current and future vacancies.

Make a Meaningful Contribution Every Day

The City of The Dalles is seeking a Water Treatment Operator to help maintain safe, reliable drinking water for our community. You'll work with specialized equipment and support daily treatment operations. We offer paid onthejob training, certification support, and a growth path up to Level IV (4) certification. Applicants with existing certifications are strongly encouraged to apply.

What You'll Receive

  • Competitive pay
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • FSA and HRA-VEBA options
  • Long-term disability, AD&D, and EAP benefits
  • City-funded retirement contributions after one year (13.5%)
  • Paid training and certification support

What You'll Do

Water Quality & Laboratory

  • Perform standard lab tests, calculations, and data documentation.

Operations & Maintenance

  • Operate, monitor, and maintain plant equipment and chemical feed systems.
  • Complete inspections, adjustments, cleaning, and preventive maintenance.

Facilities & Safety

  • Maintain facility and grounds, including supply and chemical inventory.
  • Follow all safety requirements, including respirator standards.
  • Operate City vehicles and equipment, including in hazardous weather.

Perform other related duties as assigned.

Work Environment

This position splits time between office tasks and outdoor work at the Wicks Water Treatment Plant throughout all seasons. The City provides all required personal protective equipment. The plant operates 24/7, and scheduling includes a mix of 8 and 12hour shifts, which may fall on holidays or weekends. Although the role is not oncall, overtime may be required or offered depending on staffing needs.

What You Bring

Skills & Abilities

  • Work independently and use sound judgment in plant and field operations.
  • Communicate clearly, document accurately, and follow SOPs.
  • Strong troubleshooting skills for equipment, processes, and water quality.
  • Demonstrate strong problemsolving and troubleshooting skills related to equipment, processes, and water quality issues.

Technical Knowledge

  • Applied algebra for hydraulic calculations, chemical dosing, flow data, and lab results.
  • Understanding of water chemistry, wet chemistry testing, colorimetric and spectrophotometric methods.
  • Experience with routine operation, calibration, and maintenance of lab and field instruments, including QA/QC.
  • Familiarity with pumps, valves, meters, chemical feed systems, and basic mechanical/hydraulic systems.
  • Proficiency with spreadsheets for data entry, tracking, and reporting.

Regulatory & Safety Requirements

  • Knowledge of state and federal water treatment regulations.
  • Ability to meet OSHA respirator requirements.
  • Ability to safely climb stairs/ladders and lift up to 80 pounds.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • At least one (1) year of experience in operational decisionmaking, water operations, laboratory testing, wastewater services, water system maintenance, or related field.
  • At least one (1) year of experience using Microsoft Excel or other spreadsheetbased software for data entry, analysis, or reporting
  • At least one (1) year of experience producing clear written and verbal communication in a workplace or organizational setting and following written and verbal instructions accurately.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships across departments.

Preferred (but not required) Qualifications:

  • Written and/or oral Spanish language proficiency
  • Two (2) years of experience working as a Water Treatment Operator or in a closely related water treatment role.
  • Associate degree in math, science, chemistry, or a related field-or equivalent coursework in Water Treatment Technology, Chemistry, Biology, or environmental fields
  • Oregon Level I Water Treatment certification
  • Oregon Level II, III, or IV Water Treatment Operator certification, or reciprocal equivalents
  • Additional training in mechanical operations and maintenance of pumps and other equipment used in water treatment

Required Licenses & Certifications

  • Valid Driver's License
  • Must obtain Oregon Class I Water Treatment Operator certification within eighteen (18) months of hire.
  • Must obtain Oregon Class II Water Treatment Operator certification within thirty-seven (37) months of hire.

About The Dalles:

  • Join a Welcoming Community - Experience the warmth of a small-town spirit where local events, farmers' markets, and festivals bring people together and create lasting connections.
  • Thrive in a Growing Economy - Be part of a diverse and stable economy fueled by agriculture, technology, healthcare, government, and tourism. Your career can grow here.
  • Embrace the Outdoors - With over 300 days of sunshine, enjoy easy access to the Columbia River Gorge for hiking, biking, fishing, and water sports - plus winter adventures are just an hour away at Mt. Hood.
  • Balance Work and Life - Live surrounded by stunning riverfront parks, scenic trails, and a city that values thoughtful growth and a strong industrial and technology presence.
  • Affordable and Accessible - Benefit from affordable housing, quality schools, and healthcare - all just 80 miles from Portland, combining small-town charm with metropolitan convenience.
  • Be Part of Something Bigger - Join close-knit neighborhoods where community support is real and your contributions matter

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required employment eligibility verification documentation upon hire. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship.

The City of The Dalles is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Veterans and Spanish-speaking candidates are highly encouraged to apply.

EEO/AA EMPLOYER