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Water Testing Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Ascend Clinical

Medical Lab Assistant

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Medical Lab Assistant Locations: Sunnyvale, CAWhy Ascend? Come work for a company that is ... What sets Ascend apart is our unique combination of clinical and healthcare water testing as we ...

Nitto Hydranautics

Chemist

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$68K - $73K/yr

Six months to one year of water industry experience, a plus. * Working knowledge of laboratory instrumentation, basic theory of operation and analytical testing lab experience. * Understanding of ...

Nitto Denko Corp.

Chemist, HY

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$68K - $72K/yr

Six months to one year of water industry experience, a plus. * Working knowledge of laboratory instrumentation, basic theory of operation and analytical testing lab experience. * Understanding of ...

Nitto Hydranautics

Chemist

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$68K - $73K/yr

Six months to one year of water industry experience, a plus. * Working knowledge of laboratory instrumentation, basic theory of operation and analytical testing lab experience. * Understanding of ...

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All JobsWater Testing Lab JobsWater Testing Lab Jobs in California

Water Testing Lab information

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How much do water testing lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for water testing lab in California is $24.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water testing lab?

A water testing lab is a specialized facility that analyzes water samples to assess their quality, safety, and composition. These labs test for contaminants such as bacteria, heavy metals, chemicals, and other pollutants to ensure water meets health and regulatory standards. The results help individuals, businesses, and municipalities ensure their water is safe for drinking, industrial use, or environmental compliance. Water testing labs use advanced scientific equipment and follow standardized testing methods for accurate results.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a water testing lab, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in a water testing lab often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to quality control protocols, managing high sample volumes, and staying updated with evolving regulations. Ensuring accuracy and preventing cross-contamination require strong attention to detail and rigorous documentation. Collaborating effectively with colleagues and other departments is essential for timely reporting and resolving unexpected results. Continuous training and adopting new technologies can also help address these challenges and enhance both efficiency and data reliability.

What is the highest paid lab technician?

The highest paid lab technicians in water testing labs typically have advanced certifications, specialized skills, and extensive experience, earning salaries that can exceed $50,000 to $70,000 annually. Senior or supervisory roles, such as lab managers, often command higher salaries due to increased responsibilities and expertise.

How to become a water testing technician?

To become a water testing technician, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by training in water quality testing methods. Certification programs in water analysis or environmental science can enhance job prospects, and familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety protocols is essential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Testing Lab Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Testing Lab Technician, you need a background in chemistry, biology, or environmental science, often with an associate or bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, analytical instruments (such as spectrophotometers and chromatography systems), and knowledge of safety protocols are essential, and certifications like NELAC or state-specific credentials may be required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong organizational skills distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies ensure accurate water quality analysis, regulatory compliance, and the protection of public health and the environment.

What are people who test water called?

People who test water are commonly called water quality technicians, water analysts, or water chemists. They analyze samples for contaminants, pH levels, and other parameters using laboratory equipment and may require certifications such as a water testing license or environmental science degree.

What career tests water?

A water testing lab employs trained technicians and scientists to analyze water samples for contaminants, pollutants, and quality parameters. They use specialized tools like spectrophotometers and follow safety and certification standards to ensure accurate results.

What is the difference between Water Testing Lab vs Water Quality Technician?

AspectWater Testing LabWater Quality Technician
CertificationsLab certifications, e.g., CLT, NELAP accreditationWater treatment certifications, e.g., TCEQ, EPA certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, controlled environmentFieldwork, on-site water testing and treatment facilities
Industry UsageTesting water samples for contaminants and complianceMonitoring and maintaining water quality in treatment plants or systems

While both roles focus on water quality, Water Testing Labs primarily analyze water samples in a lab setting, whereas Water Quality Technicians perform on-site testing and maintenance. Both roles require relevant certifications and are essential in ensuring safe, clean water.

What are popular job titles related to Water Testing Lab jobs in California? For Water Testing Lab jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Testing Lab jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Water Testing Lab jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Water Testing Lab jobs? Cities in California with the most Water Testing Lab job openings:
Water Testing Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Testing Lab job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,829 per year, or $24.9 per hour.
Medical Lab Assistant

Medical Lab Assistant

Ascend Clinical

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Medical Lab AssistantLocations: Sunnyvale, CAWhy Ascend?
Come work for a company that is transforming the industry!
Ascend Clinical, LLC is one of the highest-volume clinical laboratories in the United States, processing millions of tests each month with advanced tools and technology. For over 30 years, we've set the standard for service and excellence in testing.
What sets Ascend apart is our unique combination of clinical and healthcare water testing as we drive innovation across multiple areas of laboratory science. We're growing rapidly and looking for individuals who thrive in a fast-paced environment, embrace new challenges, and want to help shape what's next.
Job Summary:
As a Medical Laboratory Assistant, you will assist the Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) with routine specimen processing in accordance with protocols established by Ascend Clinical. You will process specimens, perform some test preparation, specimen verification and tracking, all related clerical functions and general laboratory tasks. You will also assist in placing specimens on automated instruments and work with the laboratorians for documentation review and computer verification. Our company has Hematology, Preanalytics, Chemistry, Environmental, and Immunochemistry departments.
Responsibilities:
  • Knows and complies with Ascend Clinical policies and procedures: general policies and Exposure Control (blood borne pathogens), Chemical Hazard, Illness and Injury Prevention Program and Quality Assurance Program. Understands the hazards associated with failing to follow those procedures.
  • Organizes work for large batch processing appropriately. Prioritizes tasks and organizes work for efficient completion.
  • Documents in a clear, concise and thorough manner. Sees that all paperwork is completed properly during the shift.
  • Sets up automated instruments.
  • Performs quality control procedures on instruments.
  • Performs routine testing on automated instruments.
  • Performs minor hardware troubleshooting on automated instruments.
  • Actively participates in facility's Quality Assurance program.
  • Assumes responsibility for special projects, as directed by Management.

Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or GED required, college preferred.
  • Background in chemistry, math, medical terminology, knowledge of specimen preparation techniques, and principles of operation of common laboratory instruments.
  • Capability of performing repetitive work with a high degree of precision.
  • Capability of working biologic specimens in a safe manner.
  • Able to read, write, speak, understand and communicate.
Compensation:
  • $22-$25/hr
  • Salaries may vary for different individuals in the same role based on several factors, including but not limited to individual competencies, education/professional certifications, experience and performance in the role.
Benefits:
As an Ascend Clinical employee, you will become part of a company that has received national recognition as a great place to work. We offer excellent full-time benefits including comprehensive medical coverage, life and disability insurance, 401(k) with company match, paid holidays and vacation, personal days, and dental and vision options.
Ascend is an Equal Opportunity Employer - M/F/Disabled/Veteran
Ascend Clinical, LLC is committed to promoting an equal employment opportunity workplace environment and is an equal opportunity employer. It is the policy of the company that all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, citizenship, pregnancy, genetic information (GINA), disability, military and/or veteran status, and/or any other status protected by applicable Federal, state, or local law. The company's policy is to recruit, hire, train, promote and administer all employment-related matters on the basis of an individual's qualifications, abilities and efforts without regard to protected status.

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