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Water Quality Sampling Intern Jobs in Washington

WSSC Water

Water Quality Specialist

Laurel, MD · On-site

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 ...

Dewberry

Water Resources Engineering Intern

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$18.75 - $29.75/hr

Knowledge of water quality modeling, wastewater modeling, and water quality regulatory issues ... Program Information Summer Intern Program During the summer intern program, interns gain hands-on ...

Dewberry

Water Resources Engineering Intern

Fairfax, VA

$18.75 - $29.75/hr

Knowledge of water quality modeling, wastewater modeling, and water quality regulatory issues ... Summer Intern Program During the summer intern program, interns gain hands-on project experience ...

City of Manassas

Laboratory Analyst

Manassas, VA · On-site

$64K - $112K/yr

The Laboratory Analyst is responsible for collecting water samples, performing microbiological and chemical analyses, coordinating laboratory service needs, monitoring water quality to ensure ...

City of Manassas, VA

Laboratory Analyst

Manassas, VA · On-site

$64K - $112K/yr

The Laboratory Analyst is responsible for collecting water samples, performing microbiological and chemical analyses, coordinating laboratory service needs, monitoring water quality to ensure ...

Dewberry

Water/Wastewater Engineering Intern

Fairfax, VA

$18.75 - $29.75/hr

Dewberry is seeking a Water/Wastewater Engineering Intern for Summer 2027 for our Fairfax, VA ... At Dewberry, we seek out exceptional talent and strive to deliver the highest quality of services ...

Dewberry

Water/Wastewater Engineering Intern

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$18.75 - $29.75/hr

Dewberry is seeking a Water/Wastewater Engineering Intern for Summer 2027 for our Fairfax, VA ... At Dewberry, we seek out exceptional talent and strive to deliver the highest quality of services ...

ChemTreat

Water Treatment Intern

Washington, DC

Qualified individuals in this role are expected to offer professional and high-quality customer ... Monitor product feed rates and their relative impact on the water sample and make necessary ...

ChemTreat

Water Treatment Intern

Washington, DC · On-site

Qualified individuals in this role are expected to offer professional and high-quality customer ... Monitor product feed rates and their relative impact on the water sample and make necessary ...

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Water Quality Sampling Intern information

What does a water quality sampling intern do?

A Water Quality Sampling Intern assists with collecting water samples from various sources such as rivers, lakes, or treatment plants to test for contaminants and pollutants. They help prepare sampling equipment, record field data, and may conduct basic laboratory analyses under supervision. This role provides hands-on experience in environmental monitoring, data collection, and reporting methods, making it valuable for students interested in environmental science or public health careers.

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

To thrive as a Water Quality Sampling Intern, you need a solid understanding of environmental science, data collection methodologies, and basic laboratory techniques, often supported by coursework or a degree in environmental studies or a related field. Familiarity with water sampling tools (such as probes, meters, and sample bottles), data logging systems, and possibly GIS software is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for accurate data collection and teamwork. These competencies ensure reliable water quality data, compliance with regulatory standards, and effective support for environmental monitoring projects.

What are some typical challenges a water quality sampling intern might face during fieldwork, and how can they be addressed?

As a Water Quality Sampling Intern, you may encounter challenges such as difficult weather conditions, remote or hard-to-access sampling locations, and ensuring the integrity of collected samples. To address these, it's important to prepare thoroughly for fieldwork by checking weather forecasts, using appropriate safety gear, and following strict sampling protocols to avoid contamination. Working closely with experienced team members and maintaining clear communication with your supervisor can also help you navigate unforeseen obstacles.

What is the difference between Water Quality Sampling Intern vs Water Quality Technician?

AspectWater Quality Sampling InternWater Quality Technician
CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate with related courseworkOften requires relevant certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentField sampling, laboratory support, seasonal or temporary rolesFull-time, hands-on sampling, data collection, and analysis
Employer & IndustryEnvironmental agencies, research projects, consulting firmsWater treatment plants, environmental labs, government agencies

The Water Quality Sampling Intern role is usually an entry-level, temporary position focused on assisting with sampling and data collection, often for students or recent graduates. In contrast, the Water Quality Technician is a more experienced role involving routine sampling, data analysis, and ensuring compliance. Both roles share similar environments and credentials but differ in responsibility level and experience requirements.

What are popular job titles related to Water Quality Sampling Intern jobs in Washington?

For Water Quality Sampling Intern jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Quality Sampling Intern jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Quality Sampling Intern jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Water Quality Sampling Intern jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Water Quality Sampling Intern job openings:

Water Quality Sampling Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Quality Sampling Intern job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution.

Water Quality Specialist

Laurel, MD • On-site

WSSC Water
Utilities • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about WSSC Waterexternal

Full-time

Posted 24 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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