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Water Sample Collection Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Collect and test water samples, measuring pH, TDS, chlorine levels, and other quality indicators ... Provide on-site training for pharmacy or commercial clients and assist with data collection related ...

... sampling programs involving collection of soil, water, asbestos, air emissions, indoor air or waste samples. §Operation of standard environmental monitoring instruments. §Accurate recording of ...

... sampling programs involving collection of soil, water, asbestos, air emissions, indoor air or waste samples. §Operation of standard environmental monitoring instruments. §Accurate recording of ...

... collection and disposal, energy consulting and resource recovery. Veolia helps commercial ... Samples water according to schedule. Prepares chemical solutions and services automatic samplers.

Storm water and non-storm water sampling and testing * Construction site inspections of erosion and ... Completing and assisting in data collection, compilation, interpretation and reporting for phased ...

Storm water and non-storm water sampling and testing * Construction site inspections of erosion and ... Completing and assisting in data collection, compilation, interpretation and reporting for phased ...

Storm water and non-storm water sampling and testing * Construction site inspections of erosion and ... Completing and assisting in data collection, compilation, interpretation and reporting for phased ...

Storm water and non-storm water sampling and testing * Construction site inspections of erosion and ... Completing and assisting in data collection, compilation, interpretation and reporting for phased ...

Storm water and non-storm water sampling and testing * Construction site inspections of erosion and ... Completing and assisting in data collection, compilation, interpretation and reporting for phased ...

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Water Sample Collection information

See California salary details

$16

$19

$23

How much do water sample collection jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for water sample collection in California is $19.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical day look like for someone working in Water Sample Collection?

A typical day in Water Sample Collection often involves traveling to designated sites such as lakes, rivers, reservoirs, or treatment plants to collect water samples according to specific protocols. You’ll use sampling kits and field measurement equipment, follow chain-of-custody documentation, and sometimes interact with local stakeholders or environmental teams. The role may require working outdoors in various weather conditions and collaborating closely with laboratory technicians or scientists to ensure accurate sample analysis. Attention to safety guidelines and precise record-keeping are key aspects of the daily routine, helping maintain the integrity and quality of collected data.

What is the highest paying job in a laboratory?

In a laboratory setting, the highest paying roles are often senior scientists, laboratory managers, or specialized researchers such as clinical or pharmaceutical scientists. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and strong technical skills, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the industry and location.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Water Sample Collection position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Water Sample Collection, you need a basic understanding of environmental science, sampling techniques, and safety procedures, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant coursework. Experience with field sampling equipment, GPS devices, and sometimes certification in hazardous materials handling or water quality testing is typical. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and clear communication are valuable soft skills for accurate data recording and reporting. These competencies are essential to ensure reliable sample results, regulatory compliance, and effective teamwork in often outdoor or field-based environments.

What degree do you need to be a water quality specialist?

A water quality specialist typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in environmental science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. Some positions may require a master's degree or additional certifications in water quality testing or environmental management.

What is water sample collection?

Water sample collection is the process of gathering water samples from various sources to analyze their quality and contamination levels. It involves using sterile containers, proper techniques, and sometimes field testing tools to ensure accurate results for environmental monitoring or regulatory compliance.

What is a Water Sample Collection job?

A Water Sample Collection job involves gathering water samples from various sources like lakes, rivers, wells, or treatment plants for testing and analysis. Professionals in this role follow strict protocols to ensure samples are collected, stored, and transported without contamination. These samples are analyzed for contaminants, chemical composition, or biological organisms. The job is essential for environmental monitoring, public health, and regulatory compliance.

What is a person who tests water called?

A person who tests water is called a water quality technician or water sampler. They collect and analyze water samples to assess contamination levels, often using specialized equipment and following safety protocols. Certification in water testing methods may be required for this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Sample Collection jobs in California? The most popular types of Water Sample Collection jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Water Sample Collection jobs in California? For Water Sample Collection jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Sample Collection jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Water Sample Collection jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Water Sample Collection jobs? Cities in California with the most Water Sample Collection job openings:
Infographic showing various Water Sample Collection job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,121 per year, or $19.8 per hour.
Environmental Inspectors (Field Based)

Environmental Inspectors (Field Based)

ERM

San Jose, CA

$94K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

ERM is hiring Environmental Inspectors to conduct inspections at construction sites in Santa Cruz, California. Successful candidates must be flexible and responsive to a changing work environment where schedules, site locations, and tasks fluctuate according to the needs of the project.They must understand industry safety procedures and practices, including experience implementing them on the job. The individual needs to be focused on safety and the need to keep the whole team safe. They need to be a proactive communicator and be able to work with construction personnel in the field to educate them about the project requirements and problem solve when issues arise. They need to practice frequent and clear communication with the whole team to relay and resolve issues and make sure the team is delivering the services our clients expect. Must be able to inspect construction sites to ensure compliance with client internal procedures, permit conditions and landowner agreements. Inspectors may need to deliver environmental tailboard trainings to crews in the field. The EI should be familiar with typical construction BMPs and good housekeeping procedures. The role of an environmental inspector requires technical skills, as well as strong organizational and communication skills. This is a full-time (40 hours/week), limited-term role with a duration of 12 months and the possibility of renewal.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Conducting field inspections, monitoring and field survey work as directed.
  • Interacting with and serving as a point of contact with agency officials, regulatory agency staff, landowners, contractors, clients, and other project members.
  • Reviewing and implementing project documents and providing support and critical judgment on environmental compliance issues.
  • Critically assessing environmental conditions in the field to evaluate potential environmental impacts from construction.
  • Evaluating potential issues and concerns ahead of construction activities.
  • Overseeing the proper implementation of mitigation measures.
  • Conducting environmental sampling (hydrostatic test water, soil, etc.) and/or collect samples of stormwater at designated locations and visually inspect the quality of the sample.
  • Overseeing and verifying flagging of wetland boundaries, cultural and biological resources exclusion zones, refueling zones, etc.
  • Inspecting and documenting compliance with a project's environmental requirements by preparing daily written inspection reports that provide up-to-date and consistent written and photo documentation of activities observed in the field.
  • Participating in various construction meetings.
  • Evaluating restoration activities.
  • Support compliance with environmental regulations concerning spill prevention, wastewater, stormwater, storage tanks, and waste management.
  • Perform work safely, complying with ERM and client requirements and always wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including hardhat, safety boots, safety glasses, hearing protection, and orange high-visibility vest.
  • Work within quality/budget/schedule expectations and scope-specific assignments.
  • Communicate with ERM Project Manager, Senior EIs, various regulatory agencies, and client staff and subcontracts at the various client facilities. Key aspect of work is to develop relationship with client personnel at the facilities to promote environmental stewardship.

REQUIREMENTS:

  • A minimum of 2 years of construction inspection or monitoring is required; stormwater inspection experience is a plus.
  • Bachelor's Degree in an environmental discipline is preferred.
  • A general knowledge of environmental disciplines including, SWPPP BMP installation and maintenance, water resource protection, biology, materials storage and stockpiles, air quality and dust control, Hazmat storage, spill control and countermeasures, water and soil management and waste management
  • Ability to communicate effectively and a willingness to learn and take direction from more senior Environmental Inspectors.
  • A working vehicle, valid driver's license, and a good driving record; ability to drive to the various project locations.
  • Effective observational and organization skills; experience recording detailed technical data a plus.
  • Effective communication skills with ERM and client staff.
  • Experience with water and soil sample collection a plus.
  • Proficient in basic computer skills (i.e. Microsoft Outlook, Work, Excel) for communication and preparation of inspection documentation.
  • Daily hours and duration are variable depending on the site location and work to be completed.
  • Other desired experience includes soil and water sampling, SWPPP certifications, Hazmat evaluations and or sampling, species specific biology or nesting bird experience and cultural resources.

Pay Transparency:

For the Environmental Inspectors position, we anticipate the annual base pay of $71,742-$94,432, $34.49/hr. - $45.40/hr.USD, limited-term, non-exempt. An employee's pay position within this range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, performance, shift, travel requirements, sales or revenue-based metrics, and business or organizational needs. We also may have instances where employee's fall outside of the range based on the factors noted above. This job may be eligible for bonus pay (casual and fixed term/Flexforce employees are NOT bonus eligible).

We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off, medical, dental, vision, 401(k), life & disability insurance tobenefits eligible* employees.

*Benefits Eligibility is limited to Regular employees regularly scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week. Fixed-Term employees (including Flexforce) who are regularly scheduled to work 20 hours a week or more are eligible for alimitedbenefits package. Casual employees are NOT benefits eligible. See your recruiter for more details.

You can apply for this role throughhttps://www.erm.com/careers/apply/or through the internal careers portal if you are a current employee.

Note: No amount of pay is considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned, determinable, and payable. The amount and availability of any bonus, commission, or any other form of compensation that are allocable to a particular employee remains in the Company's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified at the Company's sole discretion, consistent with the law.

Who We Are:

As the largest global pure play sustainability consultancy, we partner with the world's leading organizations, creating innovative solutions to sustainability challenges and unlocking commercial opportunities that meet the needs of today while preserving opportunity for future generations.

At ERM we know that creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive work environment is an essential part of making our company a great place to build a career. We also see our diversity as a strength that helps us create better solutions for our clients. Our diverse team of world-class experts supports clients across the breadth of their organizations to operationalize sustainability, underpinned by our deep technical expertise in addressing their environmental, health, safety, risk and social issues. We call this capability our "boots to boardroom" approach for its comprehensive service model that allows ERM to develop strategic and technical solutions that advance objectives on the ground or at the executive level.

Please submit your resume and brief cover letter. Based on review of these responses, shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews.

ERM does not accept recruiting agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, ERM employees or any other company location. ERM is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.

ERM is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

Thank you for your interest in ERM!


ERM logo

About ERM

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As the largest global pure play sustainability consultancy, we partner with the world's leading organizations, creating innovative solutions to sustainability challenges and unlocking commercial opportunities that meet the needs of today while preserving opportunity for future generations. At ERM we know that creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive work environment is an essential part of making our company a great place to build a career. We also see our diversity as a strength that helps us create better solutions for our clients. Our diverse team of world-class experts supports clients across the breadth of their organizations to operationalize sustainability, underpinned by our deep technical expertise in addressing their environmental, health, safety, risk and social issues. We call this capability our "boots to boardroom" approach for its comprehensive service model that allows ERM to develop strategic and technical solutions that advance objectives on the ground or at the executive level.

Industry

Business management consulting

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

City of London, Greater London, GB

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