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Water Quality Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Performs routine water quality analysis in accordance with established processes and procedures. * Makes operational adjustments as needed to comply with state and federal water quality standards.

Watershed assessment and improvement of water quality * Hydraulic design for highway/transit * Bridge hydraulic/scour analysis and floodplain management * Strong communication skills and ability to ...

STORMWATER ANALYST

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

$67K - $88K/yr

Designs, manages, and administers water quality monitoring program, including stream and riparian assessments; collects and analyzes water chemistry data using field meter, test kits, and laboratory ...

STORMWATER ANALYST

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

$67K - $88K/yr

Designs, manages, and administers water quality monitoring program, including stream and riparian assessments; collects and analyzes water chemistry data using field meter, test kits, and laboratory ...

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Water Quality information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$12

$25

$40

How much do water quality jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for water quality in Raleigh, NC is $25.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.10 and $27.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Quality Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Quality Specialist, you need a background in environmental science, chemistry, or biology, often supported by a relevant degree and field experience. Familiarity with water testing equipment, data analysis software, and regulatory compliance systems (like EPA guidelines) is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong communication skills help professionals excel in monitoring and reporting on water conditions. These skills ensure accurate assessments, regulatory compliance, and the protection of public and environmental health.

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

AspectWater QualityWater Treatment Specialist
CertificationsWater Quality certifications, such as WQA or state-specific licensesWater Treatment certifications, including WQA or EPA licenses
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, field sampling sites, environmental agenciesWater treatment plants, industrial facilities, municipal systems
Industry UsageEnvironmental monitoring, water quality testing, complianceDesign, operate, and maintain water treatment systems

Water Quality professionals focus on testing and monitoring water to ensure safety and compliance, while Water Treatment Specialists operate and maintain systems that treat water to meet quality standards. Both roles often overlap but serve distinct functions within the water industry.

What is water quality and what does a water quality specialist do?

Water quality refers to the chemical, physical, and biological characteristics of water, typically in relation to its suitability for a specific purpose like drinking, recreation, or supporting aquatic life. A water quality specialist monitors and analyzes water samples to detect pollutants, ensures compliance with environmental regulations, and recommends solutions to maintain or improve water conditions. They may work for government agencies, laboratories, or environmental organizations, and often use specialized equipment and data analysis to assess water health. Their work helps protect public health and the environment by ensuring safe and clean water resources.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in water quality roles, and how are they typically addressed?

Professionals in water quality roles often encounter challenges such as adapting to changing environmental regulations, responding to emerging contaminants, and ensuring accurate data collection in the field. These challenges are typically addressed through ongoing training, close collaboration with regulatory agencies, and the use of advanced monitoring technologies. Teamwork is essential, as water quality specialists often work with engineers, laboratory technicians, and local authorities to maintain compliance and protect public health. Staying informed about industry best practices and participating in professional networks can also help address these evolving challenges.
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Quality jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Water Quality jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Water Quality jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Water Quality jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Water Quality jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Water Quality job openings:
Infographic showing various Water Quality job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,123 per year, or $25.1 per hour.
Transportation Hydraulic Water Resources Project Manager

Transportation Hydraulic Water Resources Project Manager

Dewberry

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Dewberry rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description


Dewberry Engineers Inc. is seeking a Transportation Hydraulic Water Resources Project Manager for the Water Resources Department in North Carolina. The position offers great potential for professional growth and collaboration in a dynamic working environment on a strong, knowledgeable and diverse team. This allows for the opportunity to provide innovative and creative design solutions. Typical projects involve assisting federal, state and local clients in support of stormwater management (water quality and quantity), floodplain management (CLOMR and LOMR), hydraulic modeling (bridge and major culverts), drainage design, resiliency design and other watershed planning for multiple project delivery methods. The position is located within either the Raleigh or Charlotte office.
Dewberry is a leading, market-facing professional services firm with more than 60 locations and 2,500 professionals nationwide. What sets us apart from our competitors are our people. At Dewberry, we seek out exceptional talent and strive to deliver the highest quality of services to our clients. You will have the chance to collaborate with the best and brightest and work on innovative and complex projects. Our commitment to excellence stems from our personal integrity and from other defining attributes, which we call "Dewberry at Work," that have inspired our employees to be successful for more than a half-century.
Responsibilities
  • Perform roadway drainage design, culvert and bridge hydraulics, and floodplain analyses;
  • Provide technical assistance for hydrologic and hydraulic analyses, using a variety of techniques and models (e.g., HEC-HMS, HY-8, HEC-RAS);
  • Floodplain mapping and assisting with written reports such as study narratives documenting floodplain studies;
  • Conduct watershed and stormwater management planning and design;
  • Perform water quality and quantity analysis to meet applicable state and local criteria;
  • Design stormwater best management practices;
  • Assist in preparation of proposals, work scopes, and cost estimates;
  • Project management and staff development.

Required Skills & Required Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil, Biological Systems or Environmental Engineering;
  • 2 to 5 years of water resources engineering experience;
  • Strong working knowledge of North Carolina Department of Transportation drainage design and hydrology and hydraulic analysis;
  • Knowledge/experience with models/software: HEC-RAS, Microstation, ArcGIS; OpenRoads Designer, PCSWM
  • Experience in watershed and stormwater management, hydrologic and hydraulic analysis, drainage, erosion and sediment control, and watershed/waterway modeling;
  • Active EIT or P.E. in NC preferred

*At this time, Dewberry will not sponsor a new applicant for work authorization.
*Dewberry is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
*All recipients of an offer of employment from Dewberry, will be required to submit to a background screening which may include, but is not limited to, employment verification, educational and other credential verification, driving record check, criminal background check, and an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry's background vendor of choice and will be conducted in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local law.
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