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Water Quality Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Yurok Tribe

Water Manager

Klamath, CA · On-site

$67K - $102K/yr

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 1. Knowledge of research and survey methodology commonly used to assess water quality conditions, and to classify or identify sources of environmental pollution or factors ...

NCSU

Research Technician

Raleigh, NC

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

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 ...

Clingroup

Veterinarian / Animal Biologist

Asheville, NC · On-site

Primary Job Purpose To assist in the delivery of efficient and high-quality research in line with ... and water quality) by following set instructions and procedures to ensure a correct controlled ...

VHB

Water Resources Project Manager

Watertown, MA · On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

Analyze and interpret water quality, hydrologic, and asset management data to develop clear ... Identify and pursue funding opportunities for stormwater programs, including researching funding ...

VHB

Water Resources Project Manager

Watertown, MA · Hybrid

$120K - $145K/yr

Analyze and interpret water quality, hydrologic, and asset management data to develop clear ... Identify and pursue funding opportunities for stormwater programs, including researching funding ...

VHB

Water Resources Project Manager

Watertown, MA · Hybrid

$120K - $145K/yr

Analyze and interpret water quality, hydrologic, and asset management data to develop clear ... Identify and pursue funding opportunities for stormwater programs, including researching funding ...

Fgcu

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Campus, IL · On-site

This position provides an outstanding opportunity for an early-career researcher to engage in collaborative, grant-funded research focused on harmful algal blooms (HABs), water quality, cyanobacteria ...

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Water Quality Research information

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$12

$25

$41

How much do water quality research jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for water quality research 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 in Water Quality Research, and why are they important?

To thrive in Water Quality Research, you need a solid background in environmental science, chemistry, or a related field, often supported by an advanced degree. Familiarity with laboratory analysis techniques, water sampling equipment, and statistical data analysis software like R or MATLAB is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective written and verbal communication skills help researchers interpret data and share findings clearly. These competencies are vital for ensuring accurate research outcomes and driving improvements in water safety and environmental policy.

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

AspectWater Quality ResearchWater Quality Technician
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Chemistry, or related fieldsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Environmental Technology or related fields
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, field sampling sitesField sites, treatment plants, laboratories
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, government agencies, environmental consultanciesMunicipal water utilities, treatment plants, environmental agencies

Water Quality Research involves conducting scientific studies to analyze water quality, develop new testing methods, and interpret data, often requiring advanced degrees. Water Quality Technicians focus on collecting samples, performing routine tests, and maintaining water systems, typically requiring technical certifications. Both roles are essential in ensuring safe water but differ mainly in scope, responsibilities, and work settings.

What is water quality research?

Water quality research is the scientific study of the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of water to assess its condition and suitability for various uses. Researchers in this field analyze water samples to detect pollutants, monitor changes over time, and identify sources of contamination. Their work supports public health, environmental protection, and the development of regulations and technologies for clean water. Water quality research is essential for ensuring safe drinking water, protecting aquatic ecosystems, and managing water resources sustainably.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Water Quality Research, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Water Quality Research often encounter challenges such as collecting accurate and representative samples from diverse environments, adapting to rapidly changing field conditions, and interpreting complex data sets. Collaboration with cross-disciplinary teams, such as environmental scientists, chemists, and public health officials, is essential to address these challenges effectively. Staying updated with the latest technological advancements in water testing and regulatory standards can also help in overcoming obstacles and ensuring research findings are both reliable and actionable.
More about Water Quality Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Water Quality Research jobs? Cities with the most Water Quality Research job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Quality Research jobs? The most popular types of Water Quality Research jobs are:
What states have the most Water Quality Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Quality Research jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Water Quality Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Water Quality Research jobs are:
Water Quality Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Quality Research job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 44% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,620 per year, or $25.8 per hour.
Research Specialist III

Research Specialist III

University of South Carolina

Los Angeles, CA

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Posting Summary
Logo Posting Number RTF00202PO24 USC Market Title Research Laboratory Manager Link to USC Market Title https://uscjobs.sc.edu/titles/156391 Business Title (Internal Title) Research Specialist III Campus Beaufort Work County Beaufort College/Division USC Beaufort College/Division Level Department BFT Academic Affairs Anticipated Hiring Range $57,779 Location of Vacancy Part/Full Time Full Time Hours per Week 37.5 Work Schedule
Standard working schedule: 8:30am - 5:00pm
Must be willing to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the department.
Type of Staff Position Staff Research Grant (SRGP) Basis 12 months Job Search Category Other Professional
About USC
About University of South Carolina
From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor's degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service - helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.
Benefits for Research Grant or Time-Limited Positions Are Indicated Below

The University of South Carolina (UofSC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about UofSC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal at https://uscjobs.sc.edu. Research Grant or Time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some, or no benefits, based on the grant or project funding.

South Carolina Retirement Yes State Insurance Programs Yes Annual Leave Yes Sick Leave Yes
Position Description
Advertised Job Summary
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Water Quality Lab Manager to lead our growing laboratory in analyzing and monitoring the waters of the Lowcountry. The successful candidate will oversee all aspects of the laboratory operations, including managing personnel, conducting analyses, maintaining equipment, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and contributing to research projects.
Responsibilities:
  1. Direct and manage the Water Quality Lab to analyze and monitor various water parameters, including total nitrogen, phosphorus, fecal coliform, enterococci, suspended solids, biological oxygen demand, and in-situ measurements such as temperature, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, pH, and turbidity.
  2. Identify, purchase, operate, and maintain laboratory equipment and supplies necessary for water quality analyses.
  3. Obtain and maintain State of South Carolina DHEC certification for the lab and all water quality parameters.
  4. Develop, implement, and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for laboratory analyses and operations.
  5. Maintain written manuals for sample receipt, storage, documentation, and processing procedures.
  6. Conduct water quality analyses following established operating procedures and ensure the accuracy and reliability of results.
  7. Establish a system to store, evaluate, and disseminate resulting data appropriately.
  8. Plan, manage, and administer the laboratory budget, ensuring proper documentation and record-keeping.
  9. Collect water samples for analysis as needed and ensure compliance with sampling protocols.
  10. Participate in the design and implementation of applied research projects related to water quality.
  11. Train and supervise graduate and undergraduate research assistants as required.
Job Related Minimum Required Education and Experience
Bachelor's degree in a related research field (such as Biology, Marine Biology, Chemistry, Ecology, Coastal Ecology, Oceanography) and 3 or more years of experience, which may be substituted by an equivalent combination of certification, training, education, and/or experience.
Required Certification, Licensure/Other Credentials Preferred Qualifications
Preference will be given to those candidates with experience conducting the analyses described in the job summary and/or managing a water quality lab. Understanding of both the theoretical and technical aspects of the operation and maintenance of a Stable Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometer and Elemental Analyzer, and ICP-Atomic Emission Spectrometer is also preferred.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities
Working knowledge of laboratory methods, equipment, facilities, materials and experience in the operation, maintenance and repair of laboratory equipment. The ability to maintain a high degree of quality assurance/quality control. The ability to develop, evaluate and implement research methodologies and laboratory procedures and plan, organize and evaluate activities. The ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing to a variety of audiences. Proficiency with basic computer programs to include word processing, data spreadsheets and statistical analyses. Experience in budget development, management, evaluation and administration. Must have the ability to assist with the writing of grant proposals and scientific publications.
Job Duties
Job Duty
Manage day to day operations of the lab including laboratory policy development and enforcement, equipment maintenance and quality control, budgeting, record keeping, staff supervision, sample collection schedule, and collaborating with grantors to address requests.
Essential Function Yes Percentage of Time 40 Job Duty
Conduct water quality analyses as required to obtain and maintain State of South Carolina DHEC laboratory and parameter certifications related to the Clean Water and Safe Drinking Acts.
Essential Function Yes Percentage of Time 10 Job Duty
Collect water samples at strategic locations for analysis as appropriate.
Essential Function Yes Percentage of Time 10 Job Duty
Prepare and deliver water quality reports to grantors within 48 hours of running samples.
Essential Function Yes Percentage of Time 30 Job Duty
Design, conduct, and dissemination of applied research projects related to water quality in the lowcountry.
Essential Function Yes Percentage of Time 10
Position Attributes
Hazardous weather category Non-Essential Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing. No
Posting Detail Information
Number of Vacancies 1 Desired Start Date Position End Date Job Open Date 06/14/2024 Job Close Date Open Until Filled No Special Instructions to Applicant
Positions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.
Quicklink for Posting https://uscjobs.sc.edu/postings/170030 EEO Statement
The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.

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