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Water Quality Testing Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

East Coast Water Quality

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Outside Sales Representative

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$80K - $200K/yr (+ commission)

Every single day there are several more Boil Water Advisories and locations testing positive for ... We respect your family time and quality of life! 1 AWESOME sales meeting per Month and your 1 to 2 ...

Bedford Regional Water Authority

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Compliance Technician( Water)

Bedford, VA · On-site

$49K/yr

... testing. * Assist with Health Department inspections. * Act as the primary contact in response to customer complaints and concerns on water quality issues. * Drafting and completing permit ...

Rentokil

Outdoor Technician-Lake and Pond

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$37K - $38K/yr

Familiarity with aquatic equipment, including filtration systems, pumps, UV sterilizers, and water quality testing instruments. * Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot ...

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All JobsWater Quality Testing JobsWater Quality Testing Jobs in Virginia

Water Quality Testing information

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$13

$21

$30

How much do water quality testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for water quality testing in Virginia is $21.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is water quality testing?

Water quality testing is the process of analyzing water samples to assess their chemical, physical, and biological characteristics. This testing helps determine if water is safe for human consumption, agricultural use, recreational activities, or supporting aquatic life. Professionals test for contaminants such as bacteria, heavy metals, pH, turbidity, and other substances that may affect health or the environment. Regular water quality testing is crucial for ensuring public health and meeting regulatory standards.

What are some typical daily challenges faced by professionals in water quality testing roles?

Professionals in water quality testing often encounter challenges such as managing tight sampling schedules, ensuring adherence to strict regulatory standards, and maintaining the accuracy of test results under various field conditions. They may need to troubleshoot equipment malfunctions on site or respond quickly to unexpected contamination findings. Collaboration with environmental engineers, lab technicians, and regulatory agencies is common to address complex water quality issues and report findings efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in water quality testing, and why are they important?

To excel in Water Quality Testing, you need a background in environmental science, chemistry, or biology, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with laboratory testing equipment, analytical software, and regulatory compliance systems is crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help professionals accurately interpret results and report findings. These competencies ensure the reliability of water quality data, compliance with safety standards, and protection of public health and the environment.

What is the difference between Water Quality Testing vs Water Treatment Specialist?

AspectWater Quality TestingWater Treatment Specialist
CertificationsWater Quality Testing certifications, EPA certificationsWater Treatment certifications, EPA certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, field testing sitesWater treatment plants, industrial facilities
Job FocusAnalyzing water samples for contaminantsDesigning and maintaining water treatment systems

Water Quality Testing primarily involves analyzing water samples to assess contamination levels, while Water Treatment Specialists focus on designing, operating, and maintaining systems to treat water. Both roles require similar certifications and often work in related environments, but their core responsibilities differ in focus and daily tasks.

How to become a water quality tester?

To become a water quality tester, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training in water sampling and testing procedures. Certification in water quality testing or environmental science can improve job prospects, and familiarity with testing equipment and laboratory safety is important.

How to become a water quality testing inspector?

To become a water quality testing inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training in water testing procedures. Many employers prefer applicants with a certification such as the Certified Water Quality Analyst (CWQA) or similar credentials, and familiarity with testing equipment and safety protocols is essential.

What are popular job titles related to Water Quality Testing jobs in Virginia?

For Water Quality Testing jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Quality Testing jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Quality Testing jobs in Virginia are:

Water Quality Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Quality Testing job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,761 per year, or $21 per hour.

Lead Industrial Wastewater Operator

ProChem Water, LLC

Sandston, VA • On-site

$23 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Manage the daily treatment of industrial water treatment systems, high-purity rinses, and manufacturing waste streams.

  • Ensure compliance with safety protocols, discharge monitoring reports, and local pre-treatment permits.

  • Perform water quality testing and modify system parameters based on real-time data.

Job description

We are seeking a highly skilled, self-reliant Lead Industrial Wastewater & Water Purification Operator to take complete ownership of an advanced water treatment facility. In this role, you will operate with autonomy, managing both high-purity (deionized water) systems and an industrial wastewater treatment system. You will serve as the tactical decision-maker for our deionized water treatment and industrial wastewater treatment systems, ensuring 100% regulatory compliance without daily supervision.
Industry: Plating and Etching Products Manufacturing
Site Location: Sandston, VA
Shift Requirements: 8-hour shifts, Monday through Friday. Autonomous scheduling with emergency response requirements
What You Will Do
  • Manage Effluent Streams: Oversee daily treatment of industrial water treatment system, high-purity rinses, and specialized manufacturing waste.
  • Ensure Compliance: Maintain strict adherence to safety protocols, housekeeping, Discharge Monitoring Reports (DMR), and local pre-treatment permits.
  • Analyze & Adjust: Perform regular water quality testing (pH, ORP, and metals analysis) and autonomously modify system parameters based on real-time data.
  • Maintain & Troubleshoot Equipment: Diagnose, service, and repair pumps and equipment as needed. Conduct daily cleaning of filter presses and production area, without direct oversight.
  • Own Documentation: Log precise operational data, track chemical inventories, and prepare audit-ready state compliance records.
  • Communicate and document daily activities with ProChem and Customer management.

What You Bring
  • Technical Expertise: Deep hands-on knowledge operating and troubleshooting industrial water treatment equipment and fluid handling systems within a regulated environment.
  • Autonomy: 3+ years of progressive experience working independently in an industrial manufacturing setting (industrial water treatment experience preferred).
  • Problem Solving: Proven ability to diagnose mechanical deviations or chemical imbalances and implement immediate, compliant fixes.
  • Physical Readiness: Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, climb ladders, and safely handle facility treatment and corrosive chemicals.

What We Offer
  • Competitive hourly wage, starting between $23 to $30 per hour based on qualifications
  • Full benefits package including health, dental, vision, and retirement contribution. Employee tier plans are paid for by the company.
  • High degree of operational trust and professional independence.
  • Paid continuing education.

Please submit a resume to express interest in this position.
ProChem Water is a custom-tailored water treatment solutions provider. We serve heavy industrial manufacturing facilities in the U.S. by providing innovative solutions that are designed specifically to meet their unique needs. Learn more about ProChem at prochemwater.com.
ProChem's mission is to advance our customers' water treatment strategies through innovative treatment solutions supported by a comprehensive set of services, while adhering to industry safety, environmental, and ISO standards. Our number one operating priority is to protect people and the environment. The ProChem team consists of chemists, engineers, technicians, and other professionals who dedicate their careers to preserving water quality and availability. Join a team that is engineering customer satisfaction.
ProChem is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on merit and business needs, and not on race, color, citizenship status, national origin, ancestry, gender identification, sexual orientation, age, religion, creed, disability, marital status, genetic information, status covered as veteran, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions including lactation, political affiliation, or any other protected status with applicable federal, state, and local laws.. It is the policy of ProChem to comply with all the relevant and applicable provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
ProChem prohibits the discrimination against employees and otherwise qualified applicants related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, including lactation, in any term or condition of employment. Reasonable accommodation will be provided to any employee/applicant who cannot, or will not, be able to perform their duties because of pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, as long as such accommodation does not constitute and undue hardship. The full pregnancy non-discrimination policy will be provided to you upon request or upon disclosure of pregnancy or a related condition.
ProChem is a drug-free workplace. We have a standard of conduct, which prohibits the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by employees on ProChem's site and/or client sites as part of ProChem's activities. ProChem will impose disciplinary sanctions in employees ranging from educational and rehabilitation efforts up to and including expulsion or termination of employment and referral for prosecution for violations of the standards of conduct. Each situation is looked at on a case-by-case basis.
This company participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
Este empleador participa en E-Verify y proporcionara al gobierno federal la informacion de su Formulario I-9 para confirmar que usted esta autorizado para trabajar en los EE.UU.
ProChem is a proud member of the Sylmar Group since 2025.

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