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Water Testing Lab Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

This position is responsible for assisting with laboratory testing, sample preparation, data ... Prepare and test water-based coating formulations (ceramic and polymer systems) following ...

Joining the water resources team at GFT means contributing to innovative solutions for sustainable ... Testing and Monitoring: Analyze lab data, operator reports, and chemical usage to resolve ...

Joining the water resources team at GFT means contributing to innovative solutions for sustainable ... Testing and Monitoring: Analyze lab data, operator reports, and chemical usage to resolve ...

Joining the water resources team at GFT means contributing to innovative solutions for sustainable ... Testing and Monitoring: Analyze lab data, operator reports, and chemical usage to resolve ...

Joining the water resources team at GFT means contributing to innovative solutions for sustainable ... Testing and Monitoring: Analyze lab data, operator reports, and chemical usage to resolve ...

Production Technician

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $23/hr

... water. * Assist in tracking incoming inventory and sourcing integration pieces to keep lab ... Conduct product testing to verify manufacturing quality, ensuring compliance with industry and ...

Production Technician

Alexandria, VA

$18.50 - $23/hr

... water. * Assist in tracking incoming inventory and sourcing integration pieces to keep lab ... Conduct product testing to verify manufacturing quality, ensuring compliance with industry and ...

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Water Testing Lab information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$25

$44

How much do water testing lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for water testing lab in Virginia is $25.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $27.64 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.

Laboratory Technician - Fairfax, VA

Laboratory Technician - Fairfax, VA

UL Solutions

Fairfax, VA

$45K - $60K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


UL Solutions rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 105 rated laboratories


Job description

In this role a Microbiology Laboratory Technician will perform various microbial analyses of environmental air and water samples in accordance with standard EPA/ASTM methods and in compliance with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 requirements

A global leader in applied safety science, UL Solutions (NYSE: ULS) transforms safety, security and sustainability challenges into opportunities for customers in more than 110 countries. UL Solutions delivers testing, inspection and certification services, together with software products and advisory offerings, that support our customers' product innovation and business growth. The UL Mark serves as a recognized symbol of trust in our customers' products and reflects an unwavering commitment to advancing our safety mission. We help our customers innovate, launch new products and services, navigate global markets and complex supply chains, and grow sustainably and responsibly into the future. Our science is your advantage.

  • Bachelor's degree in the sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Biochemistry, etc.)

  • At least 1-year experience working in a lab environment or applicable experience from education

  • Light Microscopy 

  • Basic Laboratory Safety 

  • Aseptic Techniques 

  • Basic Microbiology: incubation/culture methods 

  • Ability to work 1 Saturday a month for 1-2 hours.

This is an onsite position in our Fairfax, Virginia

  • Total Rewards:  We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career . The estimated salary range for this position is $45,000 to $60,000 and is based on multiple factors, including job-related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, as well as other factors. This position is eligible for annual bonus compensation with a target payout of 5% of the base salary. This position also provides health benefits such as medical, dental and vision; wellness benefits such as mental and financial health; and retirement savings (401K) commensurate with the standard rewards offered in each individual location or country. We also provide full-time employees with paid time off including vacation (15 days), holiday including personal days (12 days) and sick time off (72 hours).

Learn More:

Curious? To learn more about us and the work we do, visit UL.com

  • Identification and enumeration of fungal spores utilizing light microscopy. 
  • Microbial analysis of environmental water samples  
  • Carry out daily/weekly laboratory housekeeping duties 
  • Availability required for up to two Saturdays monthly, abbreviated shift no longer than 1 hour, overtime included

    .

#LI - Onsite

#LI - MB1


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