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Water Testing Lab Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DeKalb County

Lab Technician, Senior

Doraville, GA · On-site

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

Conducts microbiological testing of water mandated by regulatory agency, and performs calculations ... Trains new lab and operations employees to aid in acquiring licenses. Performs housekeeping duties ...

DeKalb County

Lab Technician, Senior

Doraville, GA

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

Conducts microbiological testing of water mandated by regulatory agency, and performs calculations ... Trains new lab and operations employees to aid in acquiring licenses. Performs housekeeping duties ...

Flex-N-Gate

Lab Tech - Quality

Southfield, MI · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Operation of salt spray booth, water immersion booth, humidity testing as needed. * Tracking of all internal and external project testing, lab microscope. * Storing and organizing part retains

CITY OF PAPILLION

Water Operator I

Papillion, NE · On-site

$26.20/hr

Under supervision, assists in the collection of all necessary water samples, lab work, including daily, weekly, and monthly testing, with proper use of water treatment lab equipment associated with ...

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How much do water testing lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for water testing lab in the United States is $25.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $27.88 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.

More about Water Testing Lab jobs
What cities are hiring for Water Testing Lab jobs? Cities with the most Water Testing Lab job openings:
What states have the most Water Testing Lab jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Testing Lab jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Water Testing Lab jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Water Testing Lab jobs are:
Water Testing Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Testing Lab job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,516 per year, or $25.2 per hour.
Lab Technician, Senior

Lab Technician, Senior

DeKalb County

Doraville, GA • On-site

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Dekalb County (Georgia) rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

577th of 686 rated public administrative organizations

Job description


Purpose of Classification:
The purpose of this classification is to coordinate and perform a variety of standard physical, chemical and bacteriological laboratory tests to maintain compliance with EPD and EPA standards for drinking water.
Essential Functions:
The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.
Collects water samples from locations throughout the County, and tests for fluoride, iron, chlorine, pH (potential hydrogen), and bacteria.
Conducts microbiological testing of water mandated by regulatory agency, and performs calculations for microbiological and chemical testing; performs daily chemical analysis with instrumentation; performs daily and monthly calibration checks on instrumentation; performs physical testing (color turbidity, suspended solids, etc.); prepares/sterilizes bottles for sample collection; and communicates results to supervisors, operations management, and other County personnel.
Prepares all bacteriological media and reagents needed for testing; performs microbiological testing of distribution system samples; records results of microbiological testing for distribution system samples, customers concerns, and ma'ins; and performs monthly checks of safety stations, balances, instrumentation, etc.
Records and maintains testing results, compiles and prepares forms, reports analyses, and sample documentation; and analyzes water testing to identify trends and patterns.
Trains new lab and operations employees to aid in acquiring licenses.
Performs housekeeping duties and tracks inventory; assists in maintaining adequate supplies to perform collection and sampling; cleans hazardous spills (mercury, etc.); washes and sterilizes glassware; and completes routine safety checks.
Minimum Qualifications:
Associate degree in Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, or related field; either three years of experience in aseptic techniques, safe laboratory practices and testing, to include bacteriological testing, physical and chemical analysis; or have one year as Laboratory Technician as a Water or Wastewater Laboratory Technician with DeKalb County; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.
Specific License or Certification Required: Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver's license; and must possess and maintain a Water or Wastewater Laboratory Analyst license.

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