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Water Quality Research Assistant Jobs in Raleigh, NC

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 ...

Research Assistant

Raleigh, NC

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Essential Job Duties The Research Assistant plays a key role in advancing the Turfgrass Entomology ... with quality, accuracy, and efficiency. The position supports externally funded research and ...

... watering, fertilizing, pruning/trimming will be required as well as pest maintenance of plants as needed to ensure research quality data is generated from trials. • Keeping a clean, neat and tidy ...

Posting Information Department Health Policy and Management - 461001 Career Area Research ... high-quality health care services. Position Summary The project assistant will assist in the ...

Temporary Research Technician

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

... to assist with field and laboratory activities that support ongoing research and Extension ... in the Water Quality lab. The technician will help staff and graduate students prepare for ...

Research Assistant III Location: Onsite at Morrisville, NC Duration: 6 Months Only W2 candidates ... Quality Control & Compliance CLIA Standards : Maintain strict adherence to CLIA, GCLP, and OSHA ...

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Water Quality Research Assistant information

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$12

$19

$27

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

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for water quality research assistant in Raleigh, NC is $19.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $21.25 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 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.

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 popular job titles related to Water Quality Research Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Water Quality Research Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Quality Research Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Quality Research Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Water Quality Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Water Quality Research Assistant job openings:

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


North Carolina State University rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

462nd of 622 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Posting Information
Posting Number PG194594SP Internal Recruitment No Working Title Research Technician Anticipated Hiring Range Commensurate with experience (up to $41,851) Work Schedule Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pm Job Location Raleigh, NC Department Crop and Soil Sciences About the Department
The Crop & Soil Sciences Department provides research, teaching, and extension in support of the NCSU land grant mission.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits
As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being.

What we offer:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Retirement Programs
  • Disability Plans
  • Life Insurance
  • Accident Plan
  • Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
  • 12 Holidays Each Year
  • Tuition and Academic Assistance
  • And so much more!
Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community. 
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties
  • Support research activities in water quality and soil physics laboratories within the Crop & Soil Sciences Department.
    • This position provides essential technical and logistical support for faculty-led and graduate student research in water quality and soil physics.
    • Duties include preparing laboratory equipment and instrumentation (e.g., TDR sensors, lysimeters, and spectrophotometers), calibrating sensors, processing soil and water samples, and managing data acquisition systems.
    • The incumbent will assist with laboratory-based experiments and field sampling campaigns, ensuring accurate data collection, adherence to safety protocols, and proper documentation.
    • The Research Technician helps maintain laboratory inventory and ensure compliance with environmental and university lab standards.
  • Contribute to Extension activities in the water quality and sediment and erosion control training programs.
    • This position plays a key role in delivering applied knowledge to stakeholders by supporting hands-on Extension training events and certification programs related to water quality management, sediment and erosion control, and stormwater BMPs.
    • The incumbent will help prepare field demonstration setups, maintain training modules and displays, and assist with logistics during workshops and field days.
    • They may also help respond to stakeholder inquiries, provide technical assistance during on-site training, and contribute to the development of outreach materials such as handouts, data summaries, or instructional guides under faculty supervision. 
  • Support maintenance activities at sediment and erosion control research and education facility.
    • This position ensures the proper functioning and upkeep of the sediment and erosion control research and education facility, which is a core component of both research and Extension programming.
    • Responsibilities include routine inspection and maintenance of erosion control structures (e.g., check dams, silt fences, detention basins), irrigation systems, runoff plots, and monitoring instrumentation.
    • The incumbent will assist with groundskeeping, and small equipment operations (e.g., mowers, compact tractors), and ensure that safety procedures and environmental compliance measures are in place.
    • By keeping the facility operational and research-ready, the Research Technician will help support high-quality field experiments and facilitate effective hands-on learning for training participants.
  • Coordinate hourly and graduate research assistant's project activities.

You Belong Here! At NC State, our goal is for all employees to reach their fullest potential at work. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition (https://news.hr.ncsu.edu/you-belong-here/) and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.
Other Responsibilities
  • Experience with basic operation and maintenance of vehicles, field and laboratory equipment.
  • Other tasks and responsibilities may be assigned based on the needs of the organization and evolving priorities. 
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits
As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being.

What we offer:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Retirement Programs
  • Disability Plans
  • Life Insurance
  • Accident Plan
  • Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
  • 12 Holidays Each Year
  • Tuition and Academic Assistance
  • And so much more!

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Qualifications
Minimum Experience/Education
Demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with environmental research.
Required License or Certification
  • A valid NC Driver's License and the ability to obtain an NC Driver's License within 60 days of hire.
  • A valid Driver's License must be maintained throughout employment.
Valid NC Driver's License required Yes Commercial Driver's License Required? No
Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions
Job Open Date 05/16/2025 Earliest Close Date---- (Positions will be posted until 5:00 PM ET on this date. Positions remaining posted after this date are still accepting applications but may close at any time.) 05/23/2025 Notice to Applicants
Please make sure that the work history you list on your application is identical to the work history listed on your resume. The application must be filled out completely, do not use the phrase "see resume".
Special Instructions
Please attach a Cover Letter, resume/CV, and contact information for three (3) professional references. 
Position Details
Position Number 00111463 Position Type SHRA Position Classification Band Title Research Technician Position Classification Band Level Contributing Position Classification Salary Range $ 34,320 - $ 72,734 Salary Grade Equivalency GN04 Alternate Option
If no applicants apply who meet the required competency level and training & experience requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week) 1.00 Appointment 12 Month Recurring Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events Non Mandatory - Emergency Event Time Limited Position Yes Time-Limited Appointment Length (if applicable) 12 months Department Id 110901 - Crop and Soil Sciences EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

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About North Carolina State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

North Carolina State University (NCSU), located in Raleigh, NC, US, is a leading educational institution with a strong emphasis on research, academics, and public service. Established in 1887, NCSU operates in the education industry and endeavors to foster student success, and promote economic development by providing high-quality, affordable education, and conducting groundbreaking research across a variety of disciplines. With more than 100 majors, its academic offerings range from undergraduates to postgraduates along with doctoral studies - in various fields like engineering, natural resources, humanities, and social sciences. NCSU is firmly anchored on the core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, and innovation. Its mission is to create economic, societal, and intellectual prosperity for the people of North Carolina and the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1887