... analyze air, water, material, and soil. Identify, evaluate and recommend risk and remediation ... Working together in the field, office, or lab, we help guide clients through the steps and ...
... analyze air, water, material, and soil. Identify, evaluate and recommend risk and remediation ... Working together in the field, office, or lab, we help guide clients through the steps and ...
Chemist 1 - LC Temporary
Portland, OR · On-site
... analytical testing services we offer to our clients. MISSION OF THE ROLE: Chemist 1 performs an ... types), lab contamination issues, as well as coordinates with supervisors on resolutions.
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Chemist 1 - LC Temporary
Portland, OR · On-site
... analytical testing services we offer to our clients. MISSION OF THE ROLE: Chemist 1 performs an ... types), lab contamination issues, as well as coordinates with supervisors on resolutions.
Environmental Engineer 4
Tualatin, OR · On-site
... water, waste, sustainability) at Lam Research's Tualatin, Oregon location. The impact you'll make ... Assists Lab Operations and other business units with management of change activities, including ...
Environmental Engineer 4
Tualatin, OR · On-site
... water, waste, sustainability) at Lam Research's Tualatin, Oregon location. The impact you'll make ... Assists Lab Operations and other business units with management of change activities, including ...
Environmental Engineer 4
Tualatin, OR · On-site
... water, waste, sustainability) at Lam Research's Tualatin, Oregon location. The impact you'll make ... Assists Lab Operations and other business units with management of change activities, including ...
Environmental Engineer 4
Tualatin, OR · On-site
... water, waste, sustainability) at Lam Research's Tualatin, Oregon location. The impact you'll make ... Assists Lab Operations and other business units with management of change activities, including ...
Environmental Engineer 4
Tualatin, OR · On-site
... water, waste, sustainability) at Lam Research's Tualatin, Oregon location. The impact you'll make ... Assists Lab Operations and other business units with management of change activities, including ...
Environmental Engineer 4
Tualatin, OR · On-site
... water, waste, sustainability) at Lam Research's Tualatin, Oregon location. The impact you'll make ... Assists Lab Operations and other business units with management of change activities, including ...
Senior Digital Electrical Engineer
$113K - $151K/yr
These markets include aerospace and defense, factory automation, air and water quality ... Hands-on debug and testing of prototypes and deliverable hardware. * Release documentation into ...
Senior Digital Electrical Engineer
$113K - $151K/yr
These markets include aerospace and defense, factory automation, air and water quality ... Hands-on debug and testing of prototypes and deliverable hardware. * Release documentation into ...
Water Testing Lab information
See Portland, OR salary details
$10.20 - $13.63
1% of jobs
$13.63 - $17.06
4% of jobs
$20.12 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$17.06 - $20.49
22% of jobs
The median wage is $23.84 / hr.
$20.49 - $23.92
23% of jobs
$23.92 - $27.35
23% of jobs
$27.82 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$27.35 - $30.78
9% of jobs
$30.78 - $34.21
8% of jobs
$34.21 - $37.64
4% of jobs
$37.64 - $41.07
2% of jobs
$41.07 - $44.50
1% of jobs
$44.50 - $47.93
1% of jobs
$10
$26
$47
How much do water testing lab jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for water testing lab in Portland, OR is $26.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.38 and $29.57 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?
| Aspect | Water Testing Lab | Water Quality Technician |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | Lab certifications, e.g., CLT, NELAP accreditation | Water treatment certifications, e.g., TCEQ, EPA certifications |
| Work Environment | Laboratory setting, controlled environment | Fieldwork, on-site water testing and treatment facilities |
| Industry Usage | Testing water samples for contaminants and compliance | Monitoring 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 Portland, OR?
For Water Testing Lab jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Testing Lab jobs in Portland, OR look for?
The top searched job categories for Water Testing Lab jobs in Portland, OR are:
Staff Scientist - Due Diligence
Portland, OR • On-site
TERRACON
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO
Re-posted 3 days ago
Terracon rating
7.2
Based on 122 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
Job description
Conduct environmental site investigations, assessments and surveys to sample, measure and analyze air, water, material, and soil. Identify, evaluate and recommend risk and remediation strategies/designs to ensure compliance with federal, state and local regulations. Prepare applicable permit applications, risk assessments and technical documents including proposals, reports and regulatory agency correspondence. Design systems and environmental protection plans. Projects may include Phase I/II environmental site assessments, ecological and natural resource field surveys, tank closure assessments, asbestos abatement, storm water management, and site planning and permitting.
Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.
Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.
Our national environmental team helps our clients do the right thing for their projects, and for our planet. Our professionals include environmental architects, archaeologists, biologists, engineers, geologists, historians, industrial hygienists, planners, and scientists. Working together in the field, office, or lab, we help guide clients through the steps and processes to address environmental challenges and move their projects forward as quickly, safely, and sustainably as possible. With services including site assessment, planning and permitting including cultural and natural resources, sustainability and resiliency, regulatory compliance, and industrial hygiene and safety, we're at the forefront of helping clients succeed and communities thrive.- Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science or related science field and a minimum of 3 years' related experience. Or, in lieu of a degree, a minimum of 7 years' related experience.
- Master's degree preferred.
- A valid driver's license with acceptable violation history may be required.
- Certification in field of expertise required.