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Water Quality Control Lab Technician Salary in the United States

How much does a Water Quality Control Lab Technician make in the United States?

As of October 01, 2026, the average salary for a Water Quality Control Lab Technician in the United States is $79,135 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $38.

However, a Water Quality Control Lab Technician's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $91,158
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $65,983 to $85,428
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $54,008

Key Factors That Influence Water Quality Control Lab Technician Salaries

A Water Quality Control Lab Technician's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

Top Paying Cities for Water Quality Control Lab Technicians

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $99,813
  • San Francisco: $98,720
  • Oakland: $96,640

Water Quality Control Lab Technician Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Water Quality Control Lab Technician salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $88,181. While startup companies pay approximate $74,746.

Water Quality Control Lab Technician Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $74,746
Growth Stage 51~500 $79,008
Established 501~5000 $85,169
Enterprise 5000+ $88,181

Water Quality Control Lab Technician Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Water Quality Control Lab Technician's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.

Last Updated on October 01, 2026
$65,983
Average $79,135/year
$85,428
$5,499
Average $6,595/month
$7,119
$1,269
Average $1,522/week
$1,643
$32
Average $38/hour
$41
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $85,428 $7,119 $1,643 $41
Average $79,135 $6,595 $1,522 $38
25th Percentile $65,983 $5,499 $1,269 $32

Water Quality Control Lab Technician Salary Growth & Career Path

For a Water Quality Control Lab Technician, the most direct path to higher earnings is advancing to the Water Quality Control Lab Manager role. This promotion typically comes with a significant pay increase, bringing the average annual salary to $124,046 - a projected growth of 57% over your current level.

Most common benefits for Water Quality Control Lab Technician

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

Common company salaries for Water Quality Control Lab Technician

Here are companies hiring for Water Quality Control Lab Technician and their salaries, click below for more details.

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FAQ about Water Quality Control Lab Technician

1. Where can a Water Quality Control Lab Technician earn the most?

A Water Quality Control Lab Technician's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Water Quality Control Lab Technician earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Water Quality Control Lab Technician is $99,813.

2. What is the highest pay for Water Quality Control Lab Technician?

The highest pay for Water Quality Control Lab Technician is $91,158.

3. What is the lowest pay for Water Quality Control Lab Technician?

The lowest pay for Water Quality Control Lab Technician is $54,008.

4. What are the responsibilities of Water Quality Control Lab Technician?

Conducts laboratory testing of water and wastewater samples to support quality control and regulatory compliance. Performs laboratory tests and analyses on water and wastewater samples. Prepares samples, reagents, and equipment for testing procedures. Records and reports test results accurately in laboratory systems. Maintains and calibrates laboratory instruments and equipment. Follows quality control and safety protocols during testing. Reports abnormal results and equipment issues to supervisors. Requires a high school diploma. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works independently within established procedures associated with the specific job function. Has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job. Typically requires 3-5 years of related experience.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.

We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)

With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.

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