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Water Sampling Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Water Utility Operator I

Black Hawk, CO ยท On-site

$76K - $107K/yr

Essential functions include operating and maintaining water treatment plants and distribution systems, including water sampling for lab analysis and water quality compliance in accordance with ...

... sampling and analysis. Ability to learn, if not skilled, in equipment operation and upkeep, water plant operation, safety procedures, building maintenance and cleaning. Ability to operate and ...

... sampling and analysis. โ€ข Ability to learn, if not skilled, in equipment operation and upkeep, water plant operation, safety procedures, building maintenance and cleaning. โ€ข Ability to operate and ...

Principal Geochemist (USA)

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Design, direct, and review field and laboratory programs, including static and kinetic testing, water sampling, material characterization, and geochemical data collection. * Translate complex ...

Principal Geochemist

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Design, direct, and review field and laboratory programs, including static and kinetic testing, water sampling, material characterization, and geochemical data collection. * Translate complex ...

Principal Geochemist

Denver, CO ยท On-site +1

$150K - $200K/yr

Design, direct, and review field and laboratory programs, including static and kinetic testing, water sampling, material characterization, and geochemical data collection. * Translate complex ...

Senior Hydrogeologist

Denver, CO ยท On-site +1

$105K - $130K/yr

Plan, supervise, and interpret field investigations, including drilling, monitoring well installation, groundwater and surface water sampling, aquifer testing, and hydraulic testing. * Interpret ...

Water Resources Engineer- Boulder, CO

Boulder, CO ยท Hybrid

$88K - $120K/yr

... sampling and flow measurement o Analysis of temporal and spatial water quality trends o Visual representation of water quality results o Analysis and development of reservoir water quality models ...

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Water Sampling information

See Colorado salary details

$15

$25

$39

How much do water sampling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for water sampling in Colorado is $25.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.72 and $33.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water sampling?

A Water Sampling job involves collecting water samples from various sources, such as rivers, lakes, wells, or treatment plants, to test for contaminants and ensure water quality. Professionals in this role follow strict protocols to gather and transport samples to laboratories for analysis. They may work for environmental agencies, water treatment facilities, or research organizations. This role is crucial for monitoring pollution levels, ensuring regulatory compliance, and protecting public health.

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

To thrive in a Water Sampling role, you should have a solid understanding of environmental science, sampling protocols, and basic laboratory techniques, typically supported by a degree in environmental science or a related field. Proficiency in using sampling equipment, water testing kits, and data recording systems is important, and some positions may require certifications such as OSHA HAZWOPER. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and strong communication abilities are valuable soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure that samples are collected accurately, results are reliable, and findings are clearly conveyed to supervisors or regulatory agencies.

What are the typical working conditions and environments for water sampling?

Water Sampling professionals often work both outdoors and indoors, regularly visiting various sites such as rivers, lakes, treatment plants, or industrial facilities to collect samples. The role may involve travel, exposure to a range of weather conditions, and physical activity such as walking, standing, or carrying equipment. In addition to fieldwork, you'll spend time in a laboratory or office setting to process samples, analyze data, and prepare reports. Water Sampling technicians usually collaborate with environmental scientists, engineers, and regulatory agencies to ensure water quality standards are met. This mix of field and laboratory responsibilities makes the role dynamic and well-suited for individuals who enjoy a combination of hands-on and analytical work.

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

A water sampling specialist typically needs at least a high school diploma or equivalent, but many positions prefer or require a bachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, chemistry, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of sampling techniques, laboratory procedures, and environmental regulations, and certifications such as EPA or state-specific training can be beneficial.

What equipment is needed for water sampling?

Water sampling jobs require specific equipment such as sample bottles, typically made of glass or plastic, a sampling pole or bailer for collecting water at various depths, and field meters to measure parameters like pH, temperature, and dissolved oxygen. Additional tools may include gloves, labels, and coolers for sample transport, along with safety gear and proper training in sampling protocols.

What are popular job titles related to Water Sampling jobs in Colorado?

For Water Sampling jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Water Sampling jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Water Sampling job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Sampling job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,730 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Water Utility Operator I

Black Hawk, CO โ€ข On-site

City of Black Hawk
Public Administrationย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$76K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

 
 
 


POSITION: WATER UTILITY OPERATOR I, II, III, or IV 

DEPARTMENT: PUBLIC WORKS

REQUISITION: 1193                                                                     

STATUS: REGULAR FULL-TIME; NON-EXEMPT;

12-MONTH INTRODUCTORY PERIOD

SALARY RANGE: 

$57,555 - $80,578/Annual (Paid Hourly) DOQ/E(LEVEL I) 

$63,311 - $88,635/Annual (Paid Hourly)  DOQ/E (LEVEL II)                   

$69,642 - $97,499/Annual (Paid Hourly)  DOQ/E (LEVEL III)                 

$76,606 - $107,249/Annual (Paid Hourly)  DOQ/E (LEVEL IV)                 

WORK SCHEDULE: 40 HOURS/WEEK; 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM

ON-CALL HOURS; HOLIDAYS AND WEEKENDS

OPENING DATE: FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2026 

CLOSING DATE: OPEN UNTIL FILLED

______________________________________________________________________

SUMMARY: 

Under the direction of the Water Superintendent, responsible for the operation of water treatment plants, distribution systems, maintenance and repair of water mains, service lines, valves, pumps, and water-related appurtenances.  Operator I is an entry-level position; Operator II and III positions require progressive responsibilities, certifications, and skills required.   Operator IV is master level and is expected to perform a full range of duties with significant independence and initiative and typically serves as a lead worker; certifications required. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 

Essential functions include operating and maintaining water treatment plants and distribution systems, including water sampling for lab analysis and water quality compliance in accordance with regulations, math calculations for water treatment and distribution, install, repair, and maintain water valves, fire hydrants, pressure regulators, pumps and related equipment; on-call to assist in after-hours emergency repair of water treatment plants or distribution systems; perform water utility locates and coordinate work with contractors; inspect new water service and water main installations; read and repair water meters; and perform other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS: Education and experience: 

Must be 21 or older; high school diploma or GED. Operator I: Colorado Class “D” Water Plant Operator and Class 1 Distribution Systems Certifications required within one (1) year of employment. Operator II: Colorado Class “C” Water Plant Operator and Class 2 Distribution Systems Certifications required. Must have a valid Colorado driver’s license with a safe driving record; computer experience; the ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing; the ability to lift and/or move up to 80 pounds; and the ability to work on-call and various shifts, including weekends and holidays. Outside experience will be evaluated to determine the extent of equivalency to the duties of Black Hawk and to determine the appropriate level.   Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

HOW TO APPLY: To apply for the position, please go to www.cityofblackhawk.org and click the job openings tab, then the job title link. Please read the full job description for the level you would apply for. All online applications must have a resume attached to be considered. The City of Black Hawk conducts pre-employment physical exams, drug testing, and background investigations as a condition of employment.  

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER