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Water Laboratory Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Laboratory Analyst

Manassas, VA · On-site

$64K - $112K/yr

Water & Sewer Opening Date: 06/12/2026 FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Grade: B13 Position Summary The City of Manassas welcomes applications for our Laboratory Analyst opportunity! For this role, we are ...

The Laboratory Analyst is responsible for collecting water samples, performing microbiological and chemical analyses, coordinating laboratory service needs, monitoring water quality to ensure ...

Conducts routine testing, monitoring, and maintenance of production wells, water/wastewater unit processes, and basic laboratory analyses. * Performs and documents the treatment process and ...

Conducts laboratory tests of water and monitors plant controls * Adjusts valves and gates and maintains well pump stations * Attends safety classes, reinforces and complies with company safety ...

Responsible for performing basic and instrumental laboratory analyses as associated with water and wastewater treatment; * Perform physical and chemical analyses of water and wastewater samples ...

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Water Laboratory information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$25

$44

How much do water laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for water laboratory in Virginia is $25.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water laboratory technician?

Water laboratory technicians are professionals who analyze water samples to ensure they meet safety and quality standards. They conduct chemical, biological, and physical tests on water from various sources, such as drinking water, wastewater, and environmental bodies. Their work helps to detect contaminants, monitor pollution levels, and support public health initiatives. These technicians often use specialized equipment and follow strict procedures to provide accurate results.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a water laboratory technician?

To thrive as a Water Laboratory Technician, you need a solid background in chemistry, biology, and laboratory techniques, often supported by a degree in environmental science or a related field. Familiarity with analytical instruments like spectrophotometers, chromatographs, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is essential, along with relevant safety certifications. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong organizational skills distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate water quality testing, regulatory compliance, and protection of public health.

What are common challenges faced by professionals working in a water laboratory environment?

One common challenge in a water laboratory is managing tight turnaround times for sample analysis, as water quality results are often urgently needed for public health and regulatory compliance. Professionals must also maintain strict adherence to safety and contamination-prevention protocols, which requires attention to detail and consistent documentation. Additionally, adapting to evolving testing methods and staying updated with new regulations is essential, making ongoing learning a key part of the job. Collaboration with field technicians, regulatory agencies, and other lab staff is frequent, ensuring accurate and reliable data reporting.

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

AspectWater LaboratoryWater Quality Technician
CertificationsLaboratory certifications, e.g., CLIA, ISOWater testing certifications, e.g., EPA, State certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, controlled environmentField and laboratory, often outdoors or at water sites
Job FocusAnalyzing water samples, conducting tests, data reportingCollecting samples, performing on-site tests, ensuring water safety
Employer & IndustryEnvironmental labs, research institutions, government agenciesWater treatment plants, environmental agencies, consulting firms

While both roles involve water testing, Water Laboratory professionals primarily analyze samples within labs, focusing on data accuracy and reporting. Water Quality Technicians often perform field sampling and on-site testing to ensure water safety and compliance. Both roles require related certifications and work in the water industry, but their work environments and daily tasks differ significantly.

How to become a water laboratory technician?

To become a water laboratory technician, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring an associate degree or certification in laboratory techniques or environmental science. Relevant skills include knowledge of water testing procedures, laboratory equipment, and safety protocols; certifications such as the EPA Water Quality Analyst license can enhance job prospects.

What does a water laboratory technician do?

A water laboratory technician collects, tests, and analyzes water samples to assess quality and safety. They use laboratory equipment, follow safety protocols, and may prepare reports for regulatory agencies or research purposes.
Infographic showing various Water Laboratory job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,066 per year, or $25 per hour.

Laboratory Technician (Wastewater)

Inframark

Danville, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Inframark rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 53 rated energy and utility


Job description

Join Inframark: Leading the Way in Water Management
Inframark's Operations and Maintenance team is an award-winning team that delivers cutting-edge water, wastewater, and public works services to municipalities, utility districts, and industries. We are dedicated to supporting our employees as well as protecting the environment and the communities we serve. You would be empowered to thrive in a dynamic, supportive, and innovative environment. Take the next step in your career and join us at Inframark. Apply today!
Why Work for Inframark?
Our dedication to sustainability and community impact drives us to ensure clean, safe water for future generations. Whether you're at the start of your career or looking for advancement, Inframark offers purpose-driven work and opportunities for growth. We offer an attractive salary package, including a generous benefits package with health, dental, and life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off, sick leave, holidays, and wellness plan.
Laboratory Technician (Wastewater)
Duties and responsibilities
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Collect samples at prescribed intervals or as requested form the water distribution system, wastewater treatment plants, streams, or commercial and residential establishments for laboratory analysis.
  • Conduct physical and bacteriological laboratory analysis as applicable to water, wastewater, or industrial analysis, including but not limited to: alkalinity, phosphates, BOD, COD, TOC, total/dissolved/suspended/settleable solids, dissolved oxygen, chlorine residual, fluoride, pH, temperature, turbidity, total/fecal coliform via membrane filtration, MPN, P/A, conductivity, chlorides, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, and TKN.
  • Perform data entry in required formats to include:
    • Analytical results
    • Observations/corrective action
    • Quality Control
  • Maintain various records and daily logs to include:
    • Analytical calibrations
    • Preventative/corrective maintenance
    • Chains of Custody
    • Reagent/standard preparation
    • Chemical inventories
  • Responsible for integrity of all analytical results and corresponding quality control/assurance.
  • Maintain the working order and proper calibration of field/laboratory materials and equipment.
  • Maintains State Drinking Water Laboratory Certification (if applicable) by maintaining logs, pure culture controls, and general laboratory QC and record keeping.
  • Attend safety classes, reinforce and comply with company safety policies.
  • Work harmoniously with peers, supervisors, and the public and comply with company policies.

To support a safe and secure workplace, all offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of background screening, drug testing, and driving record review where applicable.
Inframark is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against based on disability.
Learn more about us at Operations and Maintenance - Inframark

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