ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Water Quality Analyst Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Leidos

Water Treatment Operator

Springfield, VA · On-site

Test and record water quality parameters, including hardness, pH, conductivity, and chemical ... Strong analytical and problem-solving skills * Ability to follow standard operating procedures and ...

Leidos

Water Treatment Operator

Springfield, VA · On-site

Test and record water quality parameters, including hardness, pH, conductivity, and chemical ... Strong analytical and problem-solving skills * Ability to follow standard operating procedures and ...

Bedford Regional Water Authority

Be Seen First

Water Operator Trainee - Entry Level

Bedford, VA · On-site

$38K - $45K/yr

Collect and analyze water samples for regulatory compliance and process control. * Perform routine ... Investigate customer water quality concerns and assist as needed. * Operate forklifts, tractors ...

Bedford Regional Water Authority

Be Seen First

Water Operator Trainee - Entry Level

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$38K - $45K/yr

Collect and analyze water samples for regulatory compliance and process control. * Perform routine ... Investigate customer water quality concerns and assist as needed. * Operate forklifts, tractors ...

Leidos

Senior Water Treatment Operator

Springfield, VA · On-site

Test and record water quality parameters, including hardness, pH, conductivity, and chemical ... Strong analytical and problem-solving skills * Ability to follow standard operating procedures and ...

Stafford County

Water Plant Operator

Stafford, VA · On-site

$25.26 - $54.18/hr

... water quality Performs and documents routine process control tests (e.g., DPD, pH, turbidity ... analysis as required by VDH ODW monitoring schedules Maintains accurate operational logs ...

Dewberry

Water Resources Engineer

Fairfax, VA · Hybrid

$78K - $107K/yr

Perform water quality and quantity analysis to meet applicable state and local criteria; * Design stormwater best management practices; * Provide technical assistance for hydrologic and hydraulic ...

Dewberry

Water Resources Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$78K - $107K/yr

Perform water quality and quantity analysis to meet applicable state and local criteria; * Design stormwater best management practices; * Provide technical assistance for hydrologic and hydraulic ...

Stafford County, VA

Water Plant Operator

Stafford, VA · On-site

$25.26 - $54.18/hr

... quality * Performs and documents routine process control tests (e.g., DPD, pH, turbidity ... Collects and submits samples for bacteriological and chemical analysis as required by VDH ODW ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWater Quality Analyst JobsWater Quality Analyst Jobs in Virginia

Water Quality Analyst information

See Virginia salary details

$16

$32

$50

How much do water quality analyst jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for water quality analyst in Virginia is $32.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.09 and $36.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water quality analyst?

A Water Quality Analyst is responsible for monitoring, testing, and assessing water quality to ensure it meets environmental and safety regulations. They collect water samples from various sources, conduct laboratory tests, and analyze data to detect pollutants, contaminants, or other irregularities. Their work helps maintain public health, support environmental conservation, and ensure compliance with local, state, and federal water quality standards. Water Quality Analysts often collaborate with government agencies, environmental organizations, and utility companies to implement solutions for improving water safety and sustainability.

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

To thrive as a Water Quality Analyst, you need a strong background in environmental science, chemistry, or biology, with hands-on experience in sampling and laboratory analysis. Familiarity with analytical instruments (like spectrophotometers and chromatographs), water sampling equipment, and knowledge of regulatory standards such as EPA guidelines are commonly required, along with certifications like Water Quality Analyst or relevant state licenses. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication skills help distinguish successful analysts. These competencies are vital for ensuring accurate data collection, regulatory compliance, and effective communication of findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

What are the typical work environments and team structures for water quality analysts?

Water Quality Analysts often split their time between laboratory settings, field sampling locations such as rivers or treatment plants, and office environments for data analysis and reporting. They usually work as part of multidisciplinary teams that may include environmental engineers, laboratory technicians, and regulatory specialists. Collaboration is essential, especially when interpreting results or designing water monitoring programs. Being adaptable to both independent and collaborative tasks, as well as varying work environments, is key to success in this role.

How do you become a water quality analyst?

To become a water quality analyst, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in environmental science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, data analysis, and knowledge of water testing methods; certifications such as the Certified Water Professional can enhance job prospects.

What are popular job titles related to Water Quality Analyst jobs in Virginia?

For Water Quality Analyst jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Quality Analyst jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Quality Analyst jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Water Quality Analyst jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Water Quality Analyst job openings:

Water Quality Analyst jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Quality Analyst job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,844 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

National Water Treatment Technical Expert

kennedyjc

Virginia Beach, VA • Hybrid

$213K - $266K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

As a National Water Treatment Technical Expert, you will provide technical leadership, strategic guidance, and client-facing support for complex water quality and treatment initiatives.

  • Provide technical process and water quality expertise for municipal drinking water treatment, water reuse, and advanced water purification, including treatment process evaluation, process selection, preliminary engineering studies, and operations optimization.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with municipal and private-sector water clients; identify emerging client needs, strategic opportunities, and market trends; collaborate with client service managers and regional leaders, lead pursuit strategies, and secure new work that advances Kennedy Jenks’ national water treatment practice.
  • Process design in feasibility studies, facility plans, and process pilot testing for complex water projects.
  • Advise preliminary process design, including basis of design reports and preliminary engineering drawings and specifications for complex water projects.
  • Guide development and provide quality control review of process flow diagrams, process design criteria, and process and instrumentation diagrams.
  • Evaluate process performance and operations optimization of existing water treatment facilities.
  • Actively participate in water-focused professional organizations; submit abstracts and present technical material at regional and national conferences.
  • Collaborate with our Applied Research Group staff to support and/or participate in research projects related to water quality and water treatment processes.
  • Team up with private sector water treatment staff to support and participate in industrial water quality and water treatment processes.

What Makes This Role Different

  • Serve as a trusted technical expert supporting clients and project teams across the firm.
  • Apply your expertise to advanced treatment, reuse, purification, and optimization projects with meaningful community impact.
  • Help develop mid-level staff by sharing expertise in water quality, treatment processes, regulations, and practical project delivery.

What You Bring

  • Demonstrated success developing client relationships, identifying and capturing project opportunities, leading pursuits, and contributing to revenue growth within the water sector.
  • Proven ability to serve as a trusted client advisor, guide project teams in delivering exceptional client experiences, and translate technical expertise into long-term client relationships.
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to translate complex technical information for clients, project teams, and stakeholders.
  • Ability to read, analyze, and interpret professional journals, technical procedures, government regulations, reports, design drawings, specifications, and technical memos.
  • Experience reviewing technical deliverables and providing constructive guidance to multidisciplinary project teams.
  • Ability to collaborate with and mentor junior and senior staff in water quality and water treatment processes and regulations.
  • Ability to work independently and/or as a valuable member of the team.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a related scientific discipline required.
  • 15+ years of experience in drinking water treatment engineering.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license required; license in one or multiple states preferred, including CA, CO, FL, HI, OR, TX, VA, and WA.

Kennedy Jenks supports a healthy work-life balance and utilizes a hybrid model of home and office work, with a minimum of two days per week in the office. This approach empowers our people to thrive, collaborate, and do their best work.

Salary range for this position is anticipated to be $213,000 to $266,000 and may vary based upon education, experience, qualifications, licensure/certifications and geographic location.

Benefits summary: Medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance; a health savings account; a 401(k); bonus programs; tuition reimbursement; employee ownership opportunity; professional registration support; business travel assistance; competitive paid time off and holidays; an employee assistance program; and additional programs that support your wellbeing and professional growth.

#LI-Hybrid

Apply