1

Water Testing Laboratory Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

With an in-house laboratory and a team of experienced chemists, we provide full-service water treatment support, including routine and specialized testing to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant ...

With an in-house laboratory and a team of experienced chemists, we provide full-service water treatment support, including routine and specialized testing to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant ...

Laboratory Manager

Redlands, CA · On-site

$115K - $143K/yr

Conduct special examinations and analysis to assist with water and wastewater plant problems and studies; develop testing/analysis schedules. Participate in quality control of laboratory procedures ...

Laboratory Manager

Redlands, CA · On-site

$115K - $143K/yr

Conduct special examinations and analysis to assist with water and wastewater plant problems and studies; develop testing/analysis schedules. * Participate in quality control of laboratory procedures ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Water Testing Laboratory information

See California salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do water testing laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for water testing laboratory in California is $22.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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 are popular job titles related to Water Testing Laboratory jobs in California?

For Water Testing Laboratory jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Water Testing Laboratory jobs?

Cities in California with the most Water Testing Laboratory job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Testing Laboratory job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,250 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Lab Tech II (Environmental Monitoring & Water Testing Analyst)

Orion Group

Orange, CA • On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Contractor

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Lab Tech II (Environmental Monitoring & Water Testing Analyst)
100% Onsite - Irvine, CA
Contract until end of year (extension will depend on performance & business need)
Hourly Rate: $23-26/hr (medical benefits available at a cost)
We're seeking a detail-oriented Lab Technician/Analyst to support environmental monitoring and microbiological water testing within a cGMP-regulated laboratory in Irvine, CA. The ideal candidate will have a bachelor's degree in a scientific discipline, at least two years of QC/GMP laboratory experience, and hands-on knowledge of water collection, bioburden, endotoxin testing, and general microbiology. This 100% onsite role requires strong documentation and data-integrity practices, the ability to work independently, and flexibility to work overtime, weekends, or nonstandard hours as business needs arise.
Furthermore, the position requires the individual to work with and in areas requiring select agents and Toxins access (i.e. Biosafety level 2 and biosafety level 3 laboratories). Access to and use of select agents is regulated by federal policies. Therefore, the candidate must conduct all work activities in compliance with internal and applicable regulatory requirements.
What are the top 3-5 skills, experience or education required for this position:
  1. Environmental monitoring
  2. water bioburden
  3. water endotoxin
  4. water collection
  5. Able to work overtime, weekends, odd hours as needed

Job Description:
  • Understand Regulations and business processes required to maintain Laboratory Data Integrity.
  • Maintain and comply with Laboratory Documentation and Computerized Systems Data Integrity requirements
  • Responsible for the timely completion of laboratory testing.
  • Adhere to cGMP requirements.
  • Adhere to and supports all EHS & E standards, procedures and policies
  • Prefer knowledge in environmental monitoring or water collection
  • Prefer knowledge in water testing, general microbiology
  • Prefer knowledge working in a GMP lab setting
  • Responsible for daily activities such as waste disposal, glasswasher, autoclave runs
  • Able to work overtime, weekends and odd hours as needed

Qualification:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Sciences, with a minimum of 2 year of lab experience in a QC GMP environment
  • Experience working in a GMP regulated environment
  • Ability to articulate clearly when dealing with colleagues, peer groups and managers.
  • Proven ability to work independently and autonomously when required.
  • High attention to detail.
  • Ability to work well under pressure and consistently deliver results while demonstrating an action- orientated approach to overcome obstacles.
  • Relevant industry experience preferred.

People are our business worldwide
Orion Group was founded in 1987 and is now one of the largest, independent, international recruitment companies. We have a network of 200 employees working from 24 offices, delivering a range of services - Talent Acquisition, Recruitment Outsourcing Services, Retained Search, Global Workforce Solutions, Completions & Commissioning and Materials Management - across 68 countries. As a global leader in workforce solutions, we recruit personnel across the Engineering & Technical, Office & Commercial, Scientific and Skilled Trades disciplines, for sectors including Oil & Gas, Life Science, Power & Utilities, Constructions & Infrastructure, Manufacturing and Renewables.