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Water Sampling Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Collect and analyze water samples for key parameters (pH, conductivity, turbidity, chlorine, etc.); record data and adjust treatment accordingly. * Respond to alarms, troubleshoot operational issues ...

Collect and analyze water samples for key parameters (pH, conductivity, turbidity, chlorine, etc.); record data and adjust treatment accordingly. * Respond to alarms, troubleshoot operational issues ...

Water Quality Specialist I

Franklin, TN · On-site

$29.69 - $32.31/hr

... macro invertebrate sampling and hydrologic monitoring; assisting in planning, installing ... GPS Equipment * Water quality measuring devices * Laboratory equipment VI. Key Competencies ...

Environmental Scientist 1 - Jackson, TN

Jackson, TN · On-site

$71K - $93K/yr

Preference may be given to candidates with a background in chemical sampling, microbenthic invertebrate sampling and identification, and laboratory analyses and procedures of water samples. General ...

Be Seen First

Collect water samples as needed for off-site testing. * Handle equipment carefully during cleaning and sample collection. * Support daily operations related to instrument maintenance and cleanliness.

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Water Sampling information

See Tennessee salary details

$13

$22

$34

How much do water sampling jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for water sampling in Tennessee is $22.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $28.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Water Sampling job?

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 the Water Sampling position, 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 a Water Sampling position?

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.

How does water sampling work?

Water sampling involves collecting water samples using sterile containers to analyze for contaminants, pollutants, or quality parameters. Water sampling technicians follow standardized procedures, often using tools like sampling bottles and field meters, and may require certifications to ensure accurate and reliable results.

What is a person who tests water called?

A person who tests water is called a water sampler or water quality technician. They collect and analyze water samples to assess contamination levels, often using specialized equipment and following safety protocols. Certification in environmental testing or laboratory skills is common for this role.

What is the highest paying job in environmental science?

In environmental science, environmental managers and directors typically earn the highest salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. These roles require advanced degrees, strong leadership skills, and experience in regulatory compliance and environmental policy.

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 or prefer a master's degree or relevant certifications, along with experience in water testing and analysis tools.
What are popular job titles related to Water Sampling jobs in Tennessee? For Water Sampling jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Sampling jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Water Sampling jobs in Tennessee are:
Infographic showing various Water Sampling job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,377 per year, or $22.3 per hour.
Water Chief Treatment Plant Operator

Water Chief Treatment Plant Operator

City of Charlotte

Franklin, TN • On-site

$30.44 - $47.56/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


City Of Charlotte (North Carolina) rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

63rd of 692 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Date Opened: Wednesday, July 01, 2026 12:00 AMClose Date: Wednesday, July 15, 2026 12:00 AMDepartment: Charlotte Water DepartmentSalary: $30.44 - $47.56 Commensurate with Experience

Welcome to the City of Charlotte

Charlotte is America's Queen City, opening her arms to a diverse and inclusive community of residents, businesses and visitors alike. Here you will find a safe, family-oriented city where people work together to help everyone thrive. The mission of the City of Charlotte is to deliver quality public services and promote the safety, health, and quality of life for all residents.

Our guiding principles include:

  • Attracting and retaining a skilled and diverse workforce

  • Valuing teamwork, openness, accountability, productivity, and employee development

  • Providing all customers with courteous, responsive, accessible, and seamless quality services

  • Taking initiative to identify, analyze, and solve problems

  • Collaborating with stakeholders to make informed decisions

SUMMARY

This position supervises 3rd shift at the Franklin Water Treatment Plan.
Work involves; evaluating non-routine situations; determining appropriate action; operating the distribution system to maintain water quality and pressure; troubleshooting and repairing chemical feed systems; performing daily inspections of the plant; maintaining records; maintaining chemical inventory; ordering bulk chemicals; assigning work to treatment plant operators and overseeing all aspects of the water treatment or alum residuals process. This position ensures the efficient production, storage, and distribution of drinking water. Additionally, this position will perform other tasks as assigned by the plant supervisor.

The hourly rate for this position is $34.25 - $38.04 per hour commensurate with experience

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Oversees staff for an assigned shift; creates schedules; makes work assignments; and monitors performance.

  • Conducts rounds inside the plant; checks on distribution system operations.

  • Ensures lab work is performed accurately.

  • Makes sure plant and related equipment is maintained.

  • Maintains records;

  • Monitors chemical inventories and orders chemicals.

  • Trains personnel on new equipment and safety policies.

  • Supervises and coordinates work activities of assigned staff; assigns work, monitors status of work, and inspects completed work; participates and provides input in staffing decisions relative to hiring, firing, discipline, and promotional opportunities; evaluates performance; mentors staff; and provides assistance with career development.

  • Completes performance reviews for employees supervised.

  • May be required to assist at other treatment facilities after sufficient training.

  • Performs other related job duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The work is light work and requires applying 10 pounds of force frequently exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally to move equipment. Additionally, the following physical abilities are required: balancing, climbing, crouching, feeling, grasping, distinguishing among sounds, kneeling, lifting, mental acuity, pulling, pushing, reaching, standing, stooping, talking, visual acuity in equipment, and walking. Must be able to wear personal protective equipment as required due to potential exposure of chemicals, dust, fumes, electrical hazards, etc.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO PERFORM WORK:

High School diploma or equivalent and 5 year(s) of relevant experience. Any combination of education and experience equivalent to completion of high school and extensive experience in all phases of plant operations.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Work is performed regularly where decisions are made that could lead to major community or organizational consequences if there is a failure to make the appropriate decision at the time. Requires working shifts.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Thorough knowledge of water treatment plant operations and practices involved in treatment and delivery of drinking water and water sampling and testing techniques. Skill in calibrating equipment. Skill in performing minor equipment repairs. Ability to exercise independent judgment and initiative with established practices and procedures. Ability to obtain a City driving authorization. Ability to supervise employees. Comply and enforce city and utility policies and procedures.

Licenses, Certifications or Registrations:

Requires a valid driver's license. Requires certification as a Grade A Water Treatment Plant Operator issued by NCWTFO. Desires certifications such as: A-Distribution, Grade 1 Physical Chemical, and Maintenance Technology.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

The City's Background Check Policy requires background checks to be conducted on final internal or external candidate(s) applying for any position with the City of Charlotte. The type of information that will be collected as part of a background check includes, but is not limited to: reference checks, social security verification, education verification, criminal conviction record check, and, if applicable, a credit history check, sex offender registry and motor vehicle records check.

Background checks must be in compliance with all federal and state statutes, such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). The checks must be consistent with the guidelines set forth by these laws requiring organizations to obtain a candidate's written authorization before obtaining a criminal background report, motor vehicle records check or credit report; and to properly store and dispose of information derived from such reports.

Final candidates must pass a pre-employment drug-screening test and physical examination. During the selection process, candidates may be asked to take a skills test, and/or participate in other assessments.

The City of Charlotte is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, age, disability, sexual orientation, political affiliation or on the basis of actual or perceived gender as expressed through dress, appearance, or behavior.


Our culture is to serve the community honorably.

HOW TO APPLY

Apply online.

Federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. Please tell us if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job.

You are welcome to visit the City of Charlotte Human Resources Department lobby, where self-service application kiosks are available. They are located in our office at 700 East 4th Street, Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28202. We are open Monday through Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (EST), excluding official City holidays.

For questions about your application or the hiring process, please email Careers@ci.charlotte.nc.us

The City of Charlotte is committed to making our services and programs accessible to all. Upon request, auxiliary aids, written materials in alternate formats, language access, and other reasonable accommodations or modifications will be provided. To make a request, please fill out the Innovation & Technology ADA request form or call 704.336.4120.

BENEEFITS

The City of Charlotte provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees.

Clickhereto learn more about the City of Charlotte's benefits.

The City of Charlotte is a drug and alcohol-free workplace.


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