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Water Testing Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

North Central College

Greenhouse Technician

Naperville, IL

$15.50 - $18/hr

Comprehensive Water Testing: Conduct detailed pH testing on both the make-up water and the sump water. Quarterly Distribution Flush: Drain and thoroughly disinfect the entire water distribution ...

Alsco Inc

Waste Water Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$36/hr

... and testing required to comply with Federal, State, and Local regulations governing the wastewater treatment process and storm water and sludge management. - Installs, repairs and performs ...

Alsco External

Waste Water Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$36/hr

... and testing required to comply with Federal, State, and Local regulations governing the wastewater treatment process and storm water and sludge management. - Installs, repairs and performs ...

Alsco Inc

Waste Water Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$36/hr

... and testing required to comply with Federal, State, and Local regulations governing the wastewater treatment process and storm water and sludge management. - Installs, repairs and performs ...

North Central College

Greenhouse Technician

Naperville, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $18/hr

Conduct detailed pH testing on both the make-up water and the sump water. • Quarterly Distribution Flush: Drain and thoroughly disinfect the entire water distribution system to maintain scale and ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsWater Testing JobsWater Testing Jobs in Chicago, IL

Water Testing information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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$30

How much do water testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for water testing in Chicago, IL is $29.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.71 and $29.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is water testing and why is it important?

Water testing is the process of analyzing water samples to assess their quality and ensure they are safe for consumption, industrial use, or environmental discharge. It involves checking for contaminants such as bacteria, chemicals, heavy metals, and other pollutants. Regular water testing helps identify potential health risks, ensures compliance with safety standards, and protects both people and the environment from harmful substances.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water testing technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Testing Technician, you need a background in environmental science or chemistry, attention to detail, and knowledge of laboratory protocols, often supported by relevant certifications such as Certified Water Technician or similar. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, water sampling techniques, and data analysis software is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for accurately reporting and interpreting results. These skills ensure reliable water quality assessments crucial for public health, regulatory compliance, and environmental protection.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in water testing roles, and how are they addressed on the job?

Professionals in water testing often encounter challenges such as collecting accurate samples in the field, maintaining strict adherence to quality control standards, and keeping up with evolving environmental regulations. Addressing these challenges requires attention to detail, thorough documentation, and regular calibration of equipment. Team collaboration is also essential, as water testers frequently communicate findings with environmental scientists, engineers, and regulatory bodies to ensure water safety and compliance.

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

AspectWater TestingWater Quality Technician
CertificationsWater testing certifications, lab skillsWater testing certifications, field sampling
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, testing facilitiesField sites, treatment plants
Job FocusAnalyzing water samples for contaminantsMonitoring and maintaining water quality in the field

Water Testing primarily involves analyzing water samples in labs to detect contaminants, while Water Quality Technicians perform field sampling and monitor water conditions on-site. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in work environment and daily tasks. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right position in the water industry.

How do you become a water testing professional?

To become a water testing professional, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or certification in water quality analysis. Many roles require knowledge of laboratory techniques, water chemistry, and the use of testing equipment, with certifications such as those from the National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (NELAP) often preferred.

What are popular job titles related to Water Testing jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Water Testing jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Testing jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Testing jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Water Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Testing job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,808 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

Water/Wastewater Operator - Vernon Hills

Lake County, IL

Libertyville, IL • On-site

$25.39/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Salary: $25.39 Hourly
Location : Vernon Hills, IL
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 03098
Department: Public Works
Opening Date: 08/26/2026
Closing Date: 9/30/2026 11:59 PM Central
General Description
Are you looking for a challenging role within an organization that provides rewarding compensation, an excellent benefit package and career growth opportunities? If so, Lake County Government is the place for you. Comprised of nearly 3,000 employees, it is our goal to positively serve the residents of Lake County while working with a purpose. We believe our employees should take pride in the work they accomplish while truly respecting a collaborative work environment.
Lake County Public Works is a sewer and water provider to 40% of Lake County residents and owns, operates, and maintains more than 750 miles of pipe, three water reclamation facilities, more than 100 pump stations, an excess flow facility and a 1-mile-long levee. This Public Works position is to maintain and operate water and sanitary sewer plants.
This position works Monday through Friday from 7:00am - 3:30pm and must be available for occasional overtime duty, weekend duty and 24-hour call on a rotating basis.
Essential Functions
  • Daily logs of plant operations, including flow recordings from hydrant/pumps.
  • Perform preventative maintenance on equipment and facilities.
  • Daily inventory of chemical usage.
  • Maintaining and operating public water supplies, sanitary sewer systems and preventative/routine building and grounds maintenance.
  • Draw water samples for testing and perform basic chemical analyses of water.
  • Investigate and resolve any abnormal conditions in plant operations and investigate any complaints.

Knowledge Skills Abilities and Education Required
  • Good knowledge of methods, practices, materials, tools and knowledge of hazards and safety precautions involved in the operation and maintenance of public water supplies and/or water reclamation facilities.

Education and/or Other Requirements:
  • High school diploma or GED
  • At least one year of experience in the field of water and/or wastewater treatment operation.
  • Class IV Wastewater Operator's Certificate or a Class "D" Water Operator's Certificate issued by the IEPA.
  • Basic computer skills.
  • Possess a valid driver's license, supplemented by a satisfactory driving record.
  • Requires the ability to perform basic mechanical repairs.

Supplemental Information
Physical Requirements:
  • Performs medium to heavy work that involves walking, standing, stooping, lifting, and digging
  • Pushing and raising objects and also involves exerting between 20 to 50 pounds of force on a regular and recurring basis and 50 to 100 pounds of force on an occasional basis.

This position works Monday through Friday from 7:00am - 3:30pm and must be available for occasional overtime duty, weekend duty and 24-hour call on a rotating basis.
Lake County offers a competitive salary and benefit package. We also offer flexible working hours, and a comprehensive wellness and training program. Visit our page to get additional information on why you should work for Lake County!
Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background screening, drug and alcohol testing and may include a pre-employment medical exam.
Lake County is committed to being a diverse and inclusive workplace and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).
The County offers an extensive benefits package to eligible employees including health, dental, vision, life insurance, pension, deferred compensation plans, and so much more! Below are resources for the County's current benefits.
You can find additional details on our benefits at and

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