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Water Testing Lab Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Water/Wastewater Operator

CO · On-site

$56K - $97K/yr

Performs complex physical, chemical, and biological laboratory testing procedures to ensure ... Maintain digital and hard copy databases on plant and lab operational data. * Assist in the ...

Lab Technician II

Denver, CO · On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

... What You'll Do: - Support microbiological testing by preparing milk, cheese, dry dairy ... Fill distilled water containers and prepare materials needed for daily laboratory activities ...

Lab Technician II

Denver, CO · On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

... What You'll Do: - Support microbiological testing by preparing milk, cheese, dry dairy ... water, and laboratory waste. -Maintain accurate records of sample preparation and laboratory ...

Soils Lab Technician

Denver, CO · On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

... Water Resources. * We believe in the One Team approach, with everyone working together toward ... Perform standard soils testing, * Completion of test result documentation. • Maintain a clean ...

Soils Lab Technician

Denver, CO · On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

... Water Resources. * We believe in the One Team approach, with everyone working together toward ... Perform standard soils testing, * Completion of test result documentation. • Maintain a clean ...

Geotechnical Soils Lab Technician

Denver, CO · On-site

$19.50 - $26/hr

... Water Resources. * We believe in the One Team approach, with everyone working together toward ... Perform standard soils testing, * Completion of test result documentation. • Maintain a clean ...

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Water Testing Lab information

See Colorado salary details

$10

$26

$47

How much do water testing lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for water testing lab in Colorado is $26.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $29.33 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water testing lab technician?

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 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 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 does a water testing lab technician do?

A water testing lab technician collects water samples and conducts tests to analyze water quality, including checking for contaminants, pH levels, and chemical composition. They use laboratory equipment and follow safety protocols, often requiring knowledge of testing procedures and certifications in water analysis.

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

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

What job categories do people searching Water Testing Lab jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Testing Lab jobs in Colorado are:

Infographic showing various Water Testing Lab job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,222 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Water Wastewater Lab Tech/Operator D

Town of Telluride

Telluride, CO • On-site

$52K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Department: Public Works

Reports to: Water Wastewater Lab Tech Operator D

FLSA: Non Exempt

Grade: 30

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

SUMMARY: Under close supervision of the Water and Wastewater ORC’s, the Water Wastewater Lab Tech Operator (WWTP) Lab Tech-Operator operates, monitors, maintains, and troubleshoots the water and wastewater treatment facilities, laboratory, and processes. This is an entry level position in the WWTP Lab Tech Operator career ladder.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:Laboratory
  • Perform sampling and reporting in accordance with government regulations
  • Conduct quality control on laboratory techniques, sample requirements, and equipment as required by government regulations
  • Perform process control sampling and testing to advise on operations.
  • Complete monthly and annual reports for government entities; schedule special testing as necessary
  • Water/Wastewater Plant Operations and Maintenance

  • Perform daily walk throughs and operational duties/maintenance of water and wastewater plants
  • Implement procedural changes and process control; maintain all plant equipment; recognize and report equipment failures
  • Monitor plant performance and SCADA computer accordance with codes, regulations, and requirements
  • Respond to plant alarms; troubleshoot and take corrective actions
  • Maintain records and perform data entry in compliance with reporting requirements to government agencies
  • Calibrate water and wastewater plant instruments and equipment
  • Collect and process payments from septage and RV haulers
  • Order plantrelated equipment and chemicals
  • Utilize asset management software; perform data entry
  • Perform Fats, Oil, Grease (FOG) interceptor inspections and enforce compliance with the municipal code
  • Perform the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) required delegation of duties plan at beginner level for water and wastewater.
  • Other tasks and special projects as assigned
  • Safety
  • Recognize and report unsafe conditions; work safely to prevent accidents
  • Comply with all safety manuals, procedures, and trainings
  • Adhere to proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (Education/Experience/Licenses/Certifications):

    High school diploma or equivalent; valid Driver’s License; college degree in biology, chemistry preferred; zero (0) to two (2) years of experience in compliance with the Colorado Certified Water Professionals (CCWP) certification standards; State of Colorado Class “D” Water and Wastewater certifications required or ability to obtain within six (6) months; First Aid/CPR required or ability to obtain within six (6) months; ongoing training in Confined spaces, Lock out/Tag out, Chlorine and Chemical Safety required throughout employment.

    KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES REQUIRED:

    Knowledge of: Basic knowledge of chemical and bacteriological principles, terminology, analytical techniques and methods, and equipment pertaining to the analysis of water and wastewater, laboratory functions, operations, methods, and procedures of a water and wastewater treatment plant; preventative maintenance and repair for equipment; knowledge of State and Federal rules governing wastewater discharges and worker safety; safe usage of chemicals and occupational hazards in operations.

    Skill in: lab management; time management; effective communication with the public;; strong attention to detail; reading, writing, compiling, and analyzing laboratory data; monitoring control panels, gauges, and meters to ensure proper plant operation; using excel spreadsheets; interpersonal relationships; using power tools; using different software and hardware technology; problem solving.

    Environmental Factors:

    Work is performed both inside water and wastewater treatment facilities and outside under varying and adverse weather conditions with daily exposure to continuous noise, dust, allergens, chemicals, solvents, fumes, smoke, gases, grease, oil, and electrical energy. Work performed indoors is in a laboratory setting, subject to lab chemicals, noxious odors, confined spaces, and heights; the noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but can be loud in the production area. On-call requirements including ability to respond to emergency or abnormal facility situations outside of normal work hours, within 6 months of hire date.

    Physical Factors:

    While performing the duties of this job, the employee performs heavy manual labor and is required to sit, stand, walk; use hands to handle, or feel, and talk or hear; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and lift fifty (50) pounds and up to one hundred (100) pounds with assistance on occasion is required. Some combination of climbing and balancing to include climbing ladders, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling.