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Water Lab Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

WSSC Water

Water Quality Specialist

Laurel, MD · On-site

Position Information Functional Title Water Quality Specialist Recruitment Category Type Standard ... Performs other related duties as assigned Work Environment And Physical Demands Professional lab ...

Research Innovations

Production Technician, Lab

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$20.25 - $27/hr

Execute water and dust proofing techniques for cable assemblies to ensure durability in harsh environments. Lab Collaboration & Production: * Collaborate daily in the lab with engineering and design ...

Research Innovations

Production Technician, Lab

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$20.25 - $27/hr

Execute water and dust proofing techniques for cable assemblies to ensure durability in harsh environments. Lab Collaboration & Production: * Collaborate daily in the lab with engineering and design ...

Allan Myers

Lab Technician (Asphalt Plant)

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Conducts various lab experiments on products using established scientific protocols. * Coordinates ... We build infrastructure: the highways and bridges that connect cities and towns, the public water ...

Allan Myers

Lab Technician (Asphalt Plant)

Annapolis, MD

$24 - $30/hr

Conducts various lab experiments on products using established scientific protocols. * Coordinates ... We build infrastructure: the highways and bridges that connect cities and towns, the public water ...

GeneDx

Lab Technician

Gaithersburg, MD

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Summary The Lab Technician for OneLab, performs an entry level role in the testing of clinical DNA ... Possible contact with water (hand washing and cleaning), biohazardous body fluids, and hazardous ...

Dragos

Junior OT/ICS Lab Engineer

Hanover, MD · On-site

$105K/yr

The systems we protect deliver the water you drink, power your home, and keep the hospitals your ... The Junior OT/ICS Lab Engineer is a hands-on technical role supporting the design, build, testing ...

GeneDx

Lab Technician

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$23 - $24/hr

Summary The Lab Technician for OneLab, performs an entry level role in the testing of clinical DNA ... Possible contact with water (hand washing and cleaning), biohazardous body fluids, and hazardous ...

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Water Lab information

See Washington, DC salary details

$10

$28

$51

How much do water lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for water lab in Washington, DC is $28.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.78 and $31.59 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 Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,480 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Water Quality Specialist

Laurel, MD • On-site

WSSC Water
Utilities • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about WSSC Waterexternal

Full-time

Posted 27 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.

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