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Water Lab Jobs in Philadelphia, PA (NOW HIRING)

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Water Lab information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$9

$25

$45

How much do water lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for water lab in Philadelphia, PA is $25.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.42 and $28.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water lab technician?

Water lab technicians are professionals who perform tests and analyses on water samples to ensure that water quality meets safety and regulatory standards. They use specialized equipment to detect contaminants, measure chemical and biological properties, and report their findings to ensure public health and environmental safety. These technicians often work for government agencies, water treatment facilities, or environmental organizations, and play a critical role in monitoring and maintaining water quality.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water lab technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Lab Technician, you need a background in chemistry, biology, or environmental science, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, analytical instruments (like spectrophotometers), and data management software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong organizational skills help ensure accurate testing and reporting. These skills are vital for maintaining water quality standards, ensuring regulatory compliance, and protecting public health.

What are some common challenges encountered in a water lab position, and how can they be managed effectively?

In a Water Lab role, professionals often face challenges such as maintaining strict sample integrity, adhering to rigorous testing protocols, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Managing high sample volumes under tight deadlines can also be demanding. Effective time management, attention to detail, and regular training on updated procedures help address these challenges. Collaboration with team members and clear communication with field staff are also essential for troubleshooting and maintaining quality control.

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

AspectWater LabWater Quality Technician
CertificationsLaboratory certifications, e.g., CLIA, ISOWater testing certifications, e.g., EPA, state-specific
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, controlled environmentsField sites, treatment plants, outdoor locations
Job FocusAnalyzing samples, lab testing, data reportingCollecting samples, on-site testing, monitoring water quality
Industry UsageUsed in water testing labs, research facilitiesUsed in water treatment plants, environmental agencies

Water Lab professionals primarily work in laboratories analyzing water samples, while Water Quality Technicians often perform field sampling and on-site testing. Both roles require knowledge of water testing procedures, but their work environments and daily tasks differ significantly.

Water Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Lab job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,993 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Waste Water Operator/Lab Tech

Separation And Recovery Systems

Paulsboro, NJ • On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

The Lab Technician will be responsible for sampling and Quality Control of the daily operation of the SAREX Process. Duties will include:
• Accepts and offloads Daily trucks in and out of facility
• Performs Load Verification's, samples and records Spin-outs
• Performs and records of variety of daily sampling and analysis tests
• Rail-yard material Transfers and car sampling and QC spec of rail product
• Prepare samples and Chain of Custody for outside lab analysis
• Perform treatability studies
• Air permit Sampling and recording
• In house tests include  COD, Oil & grease, pH, Distillation
• QC  and Lab reports
• Scale house weights  
· Sampling of Sludge Feed, Water, Oil Product and wet cake solids
·  Emulsion breaker and Polymer dosing adjustments
·  Instrument Maintenance. Technical support will be provided
·  Frac Tank Management 
·  Dissolved Air Floatation (DAF) Operations 
·   Site cleanup and support
Qualifications and Education Requirements
·       2 year technical AA degree or equivalent experience
 ·       N2 water Treatment License 
·       Industrial Work experience
·       40 hour Haz Mat Training will be provided
Additional relevant Skills
·       Mechanical maintenance Experience
·       Black Seal Boiler operations license
·       Class B CDL license