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Water Quality Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WSSC Water

Water Quality Specialist

Laurel, MD · On-site

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 ...

University of Guam

Research Assistant I

Mangilao, GU · On-site

The Research Assistant I will perform essential hatchery and farm operations to maintain a clean ... Additional duties include monitoring and maintaining water quality parameters (e.g., temperature ...

VVater

Water Quality Technician

Austin, TX · On-site

$19 - $27/hr

VVater is a US-based, next-generation water treatment company that aims to provide Water for ... * Assist in the development and implementation of quality control procedures and guidelines.

VVater

Water Quality Technician

Austin, TX · On-site

$19 - $27/hr

VVater is a US-based, next-generation water treatment company that aims to provide Water for ... * Assist in the development and implementation of quality control procedures and guidelines.

VVater

Water Quality Technician

Austin, TX · On-site

$19 - $27/hr

VVater is a US-based, next-generation water treatment company that aims to provide Water for ... * Assist in the development and implementation of quality control procedures and guidelines.

NCSU

Research Technician

Raleigh, NC

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

Support research activities in water quality and soil physics laboratories within the Crop & Soil ... The incumbent will assist with laboratory-based experiments and field sampling campaigns, ensuring ...

City of Franklin

Water Quality Specialist I

Franklin, TN · On-site

$29.69 - $32.31/hr

... problem areas; * Assist with GIS-related projects (mapping and databases) for the Stormwater ... Assists with regulatory research and reviews and recommends updates to technical specifications and ...

Arcadis

Project Water Quality Engineer

Hanover, MD

$70K - $91K/yr

Moreover, the responsibilities include conducting in-depth technical research on alternative water quality solutions, analyzing water quality policies and regulations, preparing project scopes, work ...

Arcadis

Project Water Quality Engineer

Hanover, MD · On-site

$71K - $92K/yr

Moreover, the responsibilities include conducting in-depth technical research on alternative water quality solutions, analyzing water quality policies and regulations, preparing project scopes, work ...

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Water Quality Research Assistant information

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How much do water quality research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for water quality research assistant in the United States is $19.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a water quality research assistant do?

A Water Quality Research Assistant supports scientific studies related to the assessment and improvement of water quality. Their tasks typically include collecting water samples from various sites, conducting laboratory analyses, maintaining data records, and assisting with field research. They may also help in preparing reports and presenting findings to researchers or regulatory bodies. This role is crucial for ensuring environmental safety and compliance with water quality standards.

What is the difference between Water Quality Research Assistant vs Water Quality Technician?

AspectWater Quality Research AssistantWater Quality Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, or related field; some roles may require certifications in water testingHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in water testing and safety are common
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research sites, field sampling locationsField sites, water treatment plants, laboratories
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, environmental agencies, universitiesMunicipal water utilities, environmental consulting firms, water treatment facilities

While both roles involve water quality testing and environmental monitoring, Water Quality Research Assistants focus more on research, data analysis, and laboratory work, often within academic or research settings. Water Quality Technicians typically perform routine testing and sampling in the field or treatment plants to ensure water safety and compliance. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the role that best matches their skills and career goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water quality research assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Quality Research Assistant, you need a strong background in environmental science, chemistry, or biology, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, water sampling techniques, and data analysis software like GIS or statistical tools is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for accurate data collection and collaborative research. These skills ensure reliable results, regulatory compliance, and meaningful contributions to water quality studies and environmental protection.

What are some of the common challenges faced by water quality research assistants during fieldwork?

Water Quality Research Assistants often encounter challenges such as difficult weather conditions, remote or hard-to-access sampling sites, and the need to carefully follow protocols to avoid sample contamination. Additionally, they may need to troubleshoot equipment malfunctions in the field and ensure accurate data recording under time constraints. Effective communication with team members and adaptability are crucial to overcoming these obstacles and ensuring reliable research outcomes.
More about Water Quality Research Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Water Quality Research Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Water Quality Research Assistant job openings:
What states have the most Water Quality Research Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Quality Research Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Water Quality Research Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Water Quality Research Assistant jobs are:
Water Quality Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Quality Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,453 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Water Quality Specialist

WSSC Water

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 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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