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Water Quality Inspector Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Quality Control Inspector

Elkridge, MD · On-site

$48K - $64K/yr

These markets include aerospace and defense, factory automation, air and water quality ... Inspect incoming parts and materials in accordance with inspection requirements, engineering ...

Quality Control Inspector

Elkridge, MD · On-site

$48K - $64K/yr

These markets include aerospace and defense, factory automation, air and water quality ... Inspect incoming parts and materials in accordance with inspection requirements, engineering ...

Adjust chemical dosages and system settings to maintain specified water quality levels. * Conduct regular inspections, preventive maintenance, and repairs on water treatment equipment. * Troubleshoot ...

Adjust chemical dosages and system settings to maintain specified water quality levels. * Conduct regular inspections, preventive maintenance, and repairs on water treatment equipment. * Troubleshoot ...

C. (M&J) is a quality provider of multi-discipline consulting services with over 300 employees ... water supply, tunnel airport, port, marine/coastal, environmental engineering, and design-build ...

C. (M&J) is a quality provider of multi-discipline consulting services with over 300 employees ... water supply, tunnel airport, port, marine/coastal, environmental engineering, and design-build ...

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Water Quality Inspector information

See Washington salary details

$13

$23

$36

How much do water quality inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for water quality inspector in Washington is $23.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.22 and $26.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water quality inspector?

Water Quality Inspectors are professionals responsible for monitoring, evaluating, and ensuring the safety and cleanliness of water sources. They collect and analyze water samples from various sources, such as rivers, lakes, and treatment plants, to check for contaminants and compliance with environmental regulations. Their work helps protect public health by identifying and addressing potential threats to water quality. Water Quality Inspectors often work for government agencies, environmental organizations, or private companies, and may also be involved in reporting findings and recommending corrective actions.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a water quality inspector?

To thrive as a Water Quality Inspector, you need a background in environmental science or chemistry, knowledge of water regulations, and relevant certifications such as a Water Treatment Operator License. Familiarity with laboratory testing equipment, data analysis software, and compliance reporting systems is essential. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate assessment of water safety, adherence to legal standards, and protection of public health.

What are common challenges faced by water quality inspectors?

Water Quality Inspectors often encounter challenges such as accessing remote or hazardous sites, dealing with variable weather conditions, and managing complex sampling equipment. Additionally, inspectors must stay updated with evolving environmental regulations and ensure accurate data collection under strict deadlines. Collaboration with local authorities, laboratory personnel, and regulatory agencies is crucial for addressing unexpected contamination issues and ensuring public safety.

What is the difference between Water Quality Inspector vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectWater Quality InspectorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsWater Quality Certification, State Environmental CertificationsWater Treatment Certification, State Operator License
Work EnvironmentField inspections, laboratory testing, regulatory compliancePlant operations, equipment monitoring, process control
Industry UsageEnvironmental agencies, regulatory bodiesMunicipal water treatment facilities, private water companies

Both roles focus on water safety and quality but differ in daily tasks and work settings. Water Quality Inspectors primarily conduct inspections and testing to ensure compliance, while Water Treatment Plant Operators manage the treatment processes within facilities. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in water industry roles.

How do you become a water quality inspector?

To become a water quality inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education or specialized training in environmental science or chemistry. Relevant skills include knowledge of water testing procedures, use of testing equipment, and understanding of water quality standards; obtaining certifications such as the Certified Water Quality Analyst can enhance job prospects.

What cities in Washington are hiring for Water Quality Inspector jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Water Quality Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Quality Inspector job openings in Washington as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,042 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

WATER QUALITY COMPLIANCE SPECIALIST

Alexandria, VA • On-site

City of Alexandria
201 - 500 employees

$70K - $124K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Implement the City's Stormwater Facility BMP Inspection and Enforcement Program by performing onsite inspections, documenting, and enforcing maintenance activities.

  • Maintain and update the BMP Database, review site plans and BMP certifications for conformity, and ensure data accuracy.

  • Respond to Illicit Discharge and Illegal Dumping complaints, enforce violations, and complete all related documentation.


City Of Alexandria (Louisiana) rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Water Quality Compliance Specialist An Overview Are you knowledgeable about water quality and passionate about protecting the environment. If so, you should apply for the Water Quality Compliance Specialist position in the Department of Transportation and Environmental Services (T&ES) Stormwater Management Division (SWM) to perform professional and technical work related to water quality. This position implements the City's Stormwater Facility Best Management Practice (BMP) Inspection and Enforcement Program for stormwater facilities, implements the Dry Weather Outfall Screening Program, investigates Illicit Discharge and Illegal Discharge (IDDE) Complaints, performs Staff Training, and performs Public Education and Outreach to support compliance with the City's Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) General Permit and MS4 Program Plan.

The position works under the supervision of the Stormwater Principal Planner, and must take a highly proactive approach to work, think strategically to formulate solutions, and possess strong verbal and written communication skills to work effectively with the public, coworkers, and elected officials. Given that this position responds to resident service requests and performs essential job functions like BMP and outfall inspections, the position will not include a routine telework option. The Opportunity Implements a comprehensive Stormwater Facility BMP Inspection and Enforcement Program for private BMPs by performing onsite inspections, completing all inspection documentation, interacting with the public for required maintenance activities, completing all enforcement actions, and properly documenting the process; Maintains the City's BMP Database, to include creating entries for new BMPs from site development plans, creating electronic and hard copy field files, updating the ArcGIS layer, generating reports, and performing routine QA/QC of the data to ensure accuracy; Reviews As-Built plans for conformity with approved site plans prior to bond release; Reviews BMP Maintenance Agreements and BMP Certifications to ensure conformity with submitted site plans under review and approved as-built plans, respectively; Performs Dry Weather Outfall Screening, to include inspections and maintenance of the Outfall Database; Responds to Illicit Discharge and Illegal Dumping complaints, enforces violations of the City's ordinance and completes all documentation using the Alex311 service request system built on Salesforce and the Cityworks asset management system; Provides Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination (IDDE) and Pollution Prevention and Good Housekeeping training for field staff per the MS4 Program Plan, completes required documentation, and updates training materials as needed; Implements Public Education and Outreach activities to include planning and holding stream cleanups, organizing and completing outreach events, and providing outreach to the public; Helps create education and outreach materials for dissemination through social media, eNews, websites, or in-person events; and Performs related work as required.

About the DepartmentT&ESis a community partner in shaping a livable, green, and prospering Alexandria. We plan, build, operate, and maintain transportation systems and infrastructure that improve mobility and provide people and businesses with core public services. The work we do keeps Alexandrians moving, growing sustainability, and thriving.

For a broader view of our City, click City of Alexandriato learn more. Minimum & Additional Requirements Four-Year College Degree; one year of experience stormwater pollution and measurement activities, and preventing pollution in storm water runoffs to comply with water quality requirements mandated by the Clean Water Act (CWA) and the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Stormwater Program or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Preferred Qualifications Four-Year College Degree; College/university graduation with major course work in environmental sciences or engineering, water resources, natural resources, or a related field; thorough technical knowledge of the principles and practices of environmental sciences or engineering, especially related to the media of water.

The hired candidate should possess or obtain within six (6) months of employment professional certification as a Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (VDEQ) Stormwater BMP Inspector. Also, the hired candidate must possess or obtain VDEQ Erosion and Sediment Control Inspector certification within the first 12 months. The hired candidate must have the ability to be present in the office five (5) days a week, along with some weekend and evening work, and the ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds.

The City of Alexandria is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its workforce. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, genetic information, military status, or disability.


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