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Water Testing Lab Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Cultivation Advisor

Portland, OR · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Utilize testing data to identify macro and micronutrient deficiencies or toxicities * Detect early ... Interpret plant tissue, water, runoff, nutrient, and pathogen lab reports * Identify recurring ...

Cultivation Advisor

Portland, OR · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Utilize testing data to identify macro and micronutrient deficiencies or toxicities * Detect early ... Interpret plant tissue, water, runoff, nutrient, and pathogen lab reports * Identify recurring ...

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Water Testing Lab information

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$10

$26

$47

How much do water testing lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for water testing lab in Oregon is $26.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.34 and $29.47 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 Oregon? For Water Testing Lab jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Testing Lab jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Water Testing Lab jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Water Testing Lab jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Water Testing Lab job openings:
Medical Laboratory Technician

Medical Laboratory Technician

IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


IDEXX Laboratories rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

57th of 105 rated laboratories


Job description

As a Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) at IDEXX, you will be a key contributor at one of the largest veterinary diagnostic companies in the world. You will perform laboratory testing that helps veterinarians diagnose and treat pets. You will join a fast-paced work environment that encourages teamwork, quality, and offers opportunities for personal growth. This is a full-time role with competitive benefits.
Want to see what it is like to work in our lab? Check out these videos from our lab employees talking about working at IDEXX:
https://vimeo.com/idexxcareers
IDEXX reference laboratories is a global network united by a shared commitment to enhancing pet care where the true strength in our name is the people behind it. Our reference laboratories make it possible for our customers to discover more with our unrelenting commitment to innovation, personalized support, guidance, and expertise, while providing the most complete and advanced menu of diagnostic tests along with technology and tools.
Why this role matters:
IDEXX reference laboratories is a global network united by a shared commitment to enhancing pet care where the true strength in our name is the people behind it, including this role. Our reference laboratories make it possible for our customers to discover more with our unrelenting commitment to innovation, personalized support, guidance, and expertise, while providing the most complete and advanced menu of diagnostic tests along with technology and tools. The focus on enhancing the lives of people and pets, starts with our own employees and empowering them to achieve their goals, focusing on continuous improvement, and supporting the strong collaboration and inclusiveness that exist in our team.
In This Role:
You will be using automated analyzers, microscopes and other laboratory diagnostic tools to perform analyses and tests that diagnose animal illnesses, injuries and diseases in support of veterinarian animal treatment.
You will be performing diagnostic tests on blood, urine, fecal or pet biopsy samples that we receive in our lab by the thousands, every day.
You will be responsible for setting up and running lab tests and reading and releasing results according to SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures).
You can expect to specialize in an assigned department; explore more about those here: https://careers.idexx.com/us/en/referencelaboratories
What You'll Need to Succeed:
  • You possess a High School diploma or equivalent combination of education and experience is required. A degree in a Science related field is preferred.
  • It is not required to work in our lab, but if you were a Veterinary Technician (RVT, LVT, CVT) or Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT or MT), this experience and education would be a plus.
  • Ideally, you will have experience setting up, running, and reading lab tests, and operating laboratory equipment (microscopes, pipetting and / or clinical diagnostic analyzers).
  • You have a positive attitude and love to bring that energy into the lab every day to support your colleagues.
  • You are looking forward to working in a team.
  • You concentrate on the details and can work reliably and precisely.
  • You have a great sense of team spirit and responsibility.
  • Able to meet the physical requirements that go with working in a lab - standing and sitting for extended periods of time, phone & computer use, extended reach, lifting up to 50lb, and specific vision ability - close, color, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  • This is a laboratory, so there is potential exposure to biohazards, agents known to cause zoonotic diseases, and hazardous chemicals.

What You Can Expect From Us:
  • Hourly rates targeting: $28.00 / hr (Includes shift differential)
  • Opportunity for annual cash bonus and merit pay increase consideration
  • Health / Dental / Vision Benefits Day - One
  • 5% matching 401k
  • On the job training and career advancement opportunities
  • Additional benefits including but not limited to financial support, pet insurance, mental health resources, volunteer paid days off, employee stock program, foundation donation matching, and much more!
  • Opportunity to do meaningful work where you positively impact the lives of people and pets all over the world

Schedule:
  • The regular work schedule is Tues - Sat, 12:00 am - 8:30 pm, with every 3rd Sunday rotation
  • The shifts and hours may vary slightly depending on business needs.
  • Reliable and dependable attendance is an essential function of the position.

Why IDEXX?
We're proud of the work we do, because our work matters. An innovation leader in every industry we serve, we follow our Purpose and Guiding Principles to help pet owners worldwide keep their companion animals healthy and happy, to ensure safe drinking water for billions, and to help farmers protect livestock and poultry from disease. We have customers in over 175 countries and a global workforce of over 10,000 talented people.
So, what does that mean for you? We enrich the livelihoods of our employees with a positive and respectful work culture that embraces challenges and encourages learning and discovery. At IDEXX, you will be supported by competitive compensation, incentives, and benefits while enjoying purposeful work that drives improvement.
Let's pursue what matters together.
IDEXX values a diverse workforce and workplace and strongly encourages women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, foreign-born residents, and veterans to apply.
IDEXX is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will not be discriminated against because of race, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, citizenship status, disability, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, medical condition, or any protected category prohibited by local, state, or federal laws.
Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this role.
This Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) position will be based out of our Manhattan, NY location.
Does this sound like the opportunity for you? Apply today!
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