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Water Quality Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Administering the City's water quality and sampling programs; ensuring work quality and adherence to established policies and procedures; and performing technical tasks relative to assigned area of ...

Water Quality Specialist

Brea, CA · On-site

$72K - $92K/yr

Reviews and updates the City's Title 22 Drinking Water Quality Plan Assist with preparation of water quality reports and conservation. Oversees the City's cross connection program, including ...

Water Quality Technician

Austin, TX · On-site

$19 - $27/hr

Monitor water quality and lab results to manage the process and makes process adjustments in accordance with established policies, and ensure the operational plan is communicated to all shifts.

Monitor water quality and lab results to manage the process and makes process adjustments in accordance with established policies, and ensure the operational plan is communicated to all shifts.

Water Quality Technician

Austin, TX · On-site

$19 - $27/hr

Monitor water quality and lab results to manage the process and makes process adjustments in accordance with established policies, and ensure the operational plan is communicated to all shifts.

Water Quality Specialist

Addison, TX · On-site

$49K - $63K/yr

Water Quality Opening Date: 03/04/2026 Summary Under general supervision, monitors and tests water quality to include backflow prevention and cross connections. Essential Functions * Performs cross ...

Water Quality Specialist

Addison, TX · On-site

$49K - $63K/yr

Summary Under general supervision, monitors and tests water quality to include backflow prevention and cross connections. Essential Functions Performs cross-connection inspections of various types of ...

Water Quality Testing * Collect and test water samples, measuring pH, TDS, chlorine levels, and other quality indicators. * Document water test results and system performance data, for compliance and ...

Water Quality Testing * Collect and test water samples, measuring pH, TDS, chlorine levels, and other quality indicators. * Document water test results and system performance data, for compliance and ...

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Water Quality Manager

Cedar Knolls, NJ · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Water Quality Manager Location: Cedar Knolls, NJ (on-site) Status: Full Time (40 hours), Exempt Salary Range: $110,00 - $130,000 Benefits: We offer a competitive salary package, commensurate with ...

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Water Quality information

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$12

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How much do water quality jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for water quality in the United States is $25.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Quality Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Quality Specialist, you need a background in environmental science, chemistry, or biology, often supported by a relevant degree and field experience. Familiarity with water testing equipment, data analysis software, and regulatory compliance systems (like EPA guidelines) is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong communication skills help professionals excel in monitoring and reporting on water conditions. These skills ensure accurate assessments, regulatory compliance, and the protection of public and environmental health.

What is the difference between Water Quality vs Water Treatment Specialist?

AspectWater QualityWater Treatment Specialist
CertificationsWater Quality certifications, such as WQA or state-specific licensesWater Treatment certifications, including WQA or EPA licenses
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, field sampling sites, environmental agenciesWater treatment plants, industrial facilities, municipal systems
Industry UsageEnvironmental monitoring, water quality testing, complianceDesign, operate, and maintain water treatment systems

Water Quality professionals focus on testing and monitoring water to ensure safety and compliance, while Water Treatment Specialists operate and maintain systems that treat water to meet quality standards. Both roles often overlap but serve distinct functions within the water industry.

What is water quality and what does a water quality specialist do?

Water quality refers to the chemical, physical, and biological characteristics of water, typically in relation to its suitability for a specific purpose like drinking, recreation, or supporting aquatic life. A water quality specialist monitors and analyzes water samples to detect pollutants, ensures compliance with environmental regulations, and recommends solutions to maintain or improve water conditions. They may work for government agencies, laboratories, or environmental organizations, and often use specialized equipment and data analysis to assess water health. Their work helps protect public health and the environment by ensuring safe and clean water resources.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in water quality roles, and how are they typically addressed?

Professionals in water quality roles often encounter challenges such as adapting to changing environmental regulations, responding to emerging contaminants, and ensuring accurate data collection in the field. These challenges are typically addressed through ongoing training, close collaboration with regulatory agencies, and the use of advanced monitoring technologies. Teamwork is essential, as water quality specialists often work with engineers, laboratory technicians, and local authorities to maintain compliance and protect public health. Staying informed about industry best practices and participating in professional networks can also help address these evolving challenges.
More about Water Quality jobs
What cities are hiring for Water Quality jobs? Cities with the most Water Quality job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Quality jobs? The most popular types of Water Quality jobs are:
What states have the most Water Quality jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Quality jobs include:
Infographic showing various Water Quality job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,620 per year, or $25.8 per hour.
Water Quality Technician

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


American Water rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 50 rated energy and utility


Job description

Requisition ID:  109918 

Share Our Purpose.  Be Yourself.  Feel Valued. 

People are the heart of our business. As an American Water employee, you will be offered a competitive salary and health benefits package, along with opportunities to develop, grow, and evolve your career.  Our benefits packages focus on key areas such as health & wellness, emotional & well-being, and savings for current & future goals.

We are Beautifully Different. We strongly believe having diversity across our company makes us more successful and helps us provide essential services to our customers. We are stronger because we embrace different ideas, viewpoints, experiences, and backgrounds. American Water is the best choice for your next role!  Click here for more information on our inclusion, diversity, and equity journey.

About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886 and celebrating 140 years in 2026, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to approximately 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations.  American Water’s approximately 7,000 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders.

For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

Primary Role

Responsible for collecting samples from the treatment plant or distribution system, performing routine water quality analyses, sample custody, data entry and recordkeeping. Interpret water quality results and initiate chemical dosage changes to treatment process. Responsible for organizing functions and activities related to environmental management and water quality for assigned facility. Investigates water quality complaints in the field and determines course of action needed. Responsible for maintaining all applicable lab certifications, accreditations, or approvals to conduct compliance and process quality control work. Implements the day to day collection of water quality samples. Implements programs to ensure environmental compliance. Assists in resolving treatment issues. 

Key Accountabilities
  • Conduct sampling and/or analysis, as required, to ensure compliance with federal and state water quality regulations and company approved water quality standards. 
  • Monitor/calibrate and troubleshoot analyzers, equipment, etc. to ensure established standards of performance and accuracy are maintained 
  • Conduct special projects and prepare reports as needed.
  • Work with internal and external customers to build good relationships and solve laboratory issues. 
  • Evaluate and monitor supplies and other laboratory costs to assist in maintaining the lab budget. 
  • Assists in planning, preparation, and control the portion of the financial plan relating to responsibilities
Knowledge/Skills
  • Knowledge of basic chemistry and laboratory techniques and QA/QC programs.
  • Knowledge of regulatory requirements. 
  • Working knowledge of Word, Excel, and Access required
  • Knowledge of federal and state environmental standards and regulations and understanding of current environmental legislation and regulations.
  • Regulatory knowledge of proper lab analytical testing methods is preferred. 
  • Must understand principles of water and/or wastewater treatment.
Experience/Education
  • High School Dipolma or GED required, Associate's Degree preferred
  • Minimum Two (2) to four (4) years experience in water, wastewater, or environmental compliance preferred
  • Laboratory experience preferred
  • Previous compliance experience preferred
Travel Requirements
  • Position will be onsite, Monday through Friday, 8am to 430pm. Local travel to schools and homes.
Other
  • Must hold a valid State issued Driver’s License.
  • Ability to sit, stand, and walk for long periods of time. Ability to lift 35 lbs. Stairs required.
  • Must be able to distinguish colors to conduct testing using normal colorimetric methods.
Work Environment
  • Laboratory, Indoor/Outdoor, production/office environments.
  • #LI-Onsite
  • #LI-MR23
Competencies
Champions safety
Collaborates
Cultivates innovation
Customer obsessed
Drives Results
Nimble learning

Join American Water...We Keep Life Flowing

American Water is firmly committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and prohibits employment discrimination for employees and applicants based on his or her age, race, color, pregnancy, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, marital status, citizenship, or because they are an individual with a disability, protected veteran or other status protected by federal, state, and local laws.


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About American Water

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

With a history dating back to 1886, American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest and most geographically diverse U.S. publicly traded water and wastewater utility company. The company employs more than 6,500 dedicated professionals who provide regulated and regulated-like drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people in 24 states. American Water provides safe, clean, affordable and reliable water services to our customers to help keep their lives flowing.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Camden, NJ, US

Year founded

1886

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