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Water Testing Laboratory Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ascend Clinical, LLC

$200 - $250/hr

Responsible for selling laboratory services for water testing to hospitals, specialized laboratories, clinics, outpatient surgery centers, and other potential partners within the United States and ...

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How much do water testing laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for water testing laboratory in the United States is $22.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water testing laboratory?

A water testing laboratory is a specialized facility where scientists and technicians analyze water samples to assess their quality and safety. These labs test for contaminants such as bacteria, heavy metals, chemicals, and other pollutants to ensure water meets regulatory standards for drinking, environmental, or industrial use. Water testing laboratories play a critical role in public health by helping to identify and address water quality issues. Results from these labs are used by government agencies, businesses, and individuals to make informed decisions about water safety and treatment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a water testing laboratory role?

To thrive in a Water Testing Laboratory role, you need a background in chemistry, biology, or environmental science, typically supported by a relevant degree or certification in laboratory technology. Familiarity with analytical instruments such as spectrophotometers, chromatographs, and lab information management systems (LIMS) is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong organizational skills distinguish top performers in this field. These competencies ensure accurate test results, compliance with regulatory standards, and the protection of public health.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a water testing laboratory, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in a water testing laboratory often encounter challenges such as managing tight deadlines for sample analysis, ensuring strict adherence to quality control protocols, and keeping up with evolving regulatory standards. Maintaining accuracy while processing a high volume of samples can be demanding, especially during peak periods. Effective time management, continuous training on new testing methods, and strong teamwork are essential for overcoming these challenges and maintaining high standards of data reliability.

What is the difference between Water Testing Laboratory vs Water Quality Technician?

AspectWater Testing LaboratoryWater Quality Technician
CertificationsLaboratory certifications, e.g., CLIA, ISOWater treatment and safety certifications, e.g., EPA, state licenses
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, controlled environmentsField sites, treatment plants, water sources
Industry UsageTesting water samples for contaminants and complianceMonitoring and maintaining water quality in the field

While both roles focus on water quality, Water Testing Laboratory professionals analyze samples in labs, ensuring accuracy and compliance, whereas Water Quality Technicians work in the field to monitor and maintain water systems. Both require relevant certifications and are essential in water industry operations.

How to become a water testing laboratory technician?

To become a water testing laboratory technician, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring an associate degree or certification in environmental science, chemistry, or a related field. Training on laboratory equipment and testing procedures is often provided on the job, and familiarity with safety protocols and analytical tools is important for success in this role.

What does a water testing laboratory technician do?

A water testing laboratory 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 such as EPA or state-specific licenses.
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Water Testing Laboratory jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Testing Laboratory job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,864 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Water Testing Laboratory Student Scientist & Community Outreach Technician

University of New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Schedule and lead mobile water-testing presentations at senior centers and adult community organizations.

  • Perform water-quality testing on-site, operate and maintain testing equipment, and record results accurately.

  • Create and publish videos and social media content documenting lab activities and water testing processes.

University Of New Mexico rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

128th of 631 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Student Advanced Level
Requisition ID
req37621
Working Title
Water Testing Laboratory Student Scientist & Community Outreach Technician
Pay
$18.00 Hourly
Campus
Main - Albuquerque, NM
Department
Off Campus Work Study (454F)
Employment Type
Student Employment
Student Type
Work-Study
Status
Non-Exempt
Background Check Required
No
For Best Consideration Date
8/27/2026
Position Summary
Organization: STEM is Child's Play - AI Living Lab
Location: AI Living Lab
An Off-Campus Work-Study position - MUST have a Work-Study Award
Position Summary
STEM is Child's Play Foundation isseeking science students to serve as Water Testing Laboratory StudentScientists supporting the AI Living Lab's free community water-testing program.This position is designed for undergraduate or graduate students inenvironmental science, chemistry, biology, microbiology, public health, or relatedSTEM disciplines.
Student scientists will schedule andlead mobile water-testing presentations at senior centers and adult communitycenters, operate the mobile testing lab on-site, perform water-quality testingin front of participants, explain results, and create video and social mediacontent documenting the lab's work.
This position works exclusively withadults. The AI Living Lab operates byappointment only and does not conduct programming with minors in this role.
Key Responsibilities
Community Outreach &Presentations
Schedule presentations at senior centers, community centers, and adult community organizations
Coordinate appointments and logistics for the mobile water-testing lab
Set up and break down the mobile testing station at each location
Deliver clear, engaging presentations to adult audiences on how to collect a water sample and what the test results mean
Test participants' water samples on the spot and explain results in plain language
Laboratory & Field Testing
Perform water-quality testing for available parameters, including pH, TDS, and EC
Operate, calibrate, and maintain water-quality testing meters and related equipment
Record test results accurately and maintain field and laboratory logs
Identify results outside established testing ranges and report them to the Lab Director
Clearly explain the limitations of the testing program and avoid providing medical, environmental, or regulatory conclusions beyond the lab's scope
Content Creation & Digital Media
Maintain and grow the AI Living Lab YouTube channel
Film, edit, and publish videos showing what we do in the lab and how we do it
Create short-form educational and informational content about water quality, testing methods, and lab activities
Support the lab's social media presence with photos, reels, and behind-the-scenes content
Minimum Qualifications
Enrolled in a degree seeking program at UNM, Enrolled at least half-time (6 hours) at UNM for fall and spring semesters (Audit hours do not count), and if Work Study, you must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress.
Preferred Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications
Current enrollment in a STEM degree program - environmental science, chemistry, biology, microbiology, public health, environmental technology, laboratory science, or a related field
Comfort operating pH, TDS, EC, or similar water-quality meters (training provided)
Strong public-speaking and interpersonal skills - able to explain science clearly to non-scientists
Basic video production and editing skills (phone-quality is fine to start; more advanced skills a strong plus)
Familiarity with YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, or similar platforms
Strong attention to detail and accurate recordkeeping
Valid driver's license and reliable transportation preferred
Bilingual English/Spanish a plus
Application Instructions
Only applications submitted through the official UNMJobs site will be accepted. If you are viewing this job advertisement on a 3rd party site, please visit UNMJobs to submit an application.
Please submit Cover Letter and Resume.MUST have a Work-Study Award.
The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.

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