What are the responsibilities and job description for the Quality Assurance Specialist position at UPPER OCCOQUAN SEWAGE AUTHORITY (UOSA)?
Ready to advance the future of water!
Quality Assurance Specialist
Grade 10
$79,485 - $127,177
Open: July 28, 2026 ? Close: August 11, 2026
*Starting salary will be between minimum and midpoint in the range. Until renovations are complete you will need to be comfortable traveling between our headquarters and our temporary off-site lab in Manassas, VA.
WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING
The Quality Assurance Specialist (QAS) is an entry-level quality assurance role designed to develop foundational expertise in laboratory quality systems, regulatory compliance, and data integrity within a Virginia Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (VELAP), a Chapter 45 certified wastewater laboratory. This position requires substantial hands-on experience in environmental or wastewater laboratory testing. The QAS is expected to bring strong analytical knowledge, familiarity with Standard Methods, EPA methods, 40 CFR Part 136, and a solid understanding of routine laboratory operations. The QAS supports the daily implementation and maintenance of the laboratory's quality system while learning the regulatory framework governing accredited environmental testing laboratories, including TNI (The NELAC Institute) standards, Virginia's Chapter 45 and applicable local, state, and federal regulations. Working under the guidance of the Quality Assurance Officer (QAO), the QAS assists with quality control (QC) review, documentation, internal audits, and regulatory preparedness activities. This role provides structured training, hands-on experience, and progressive responsibility. Your work will be a critical component of UOSA's Vision to be globally recognized for its leadership in protecting the region's water resources.
WHO YOU ARE
Quality Systems Professional: You have a strong foundation in environmental laboratory operations and understand how quality assurance principles support the generation of accurate, defensible, and compliant analytical data. You are experienced with laboratory testing methods, quality control requirements, and the importance of maintaining data integrity in a regulated environment.
Quality & Compliance Advocate: You are committed to maintaining high standards of quality and regulatory compliance. You understand the importance of following SOPs, accreditation requirements, and QA/QC procedures, and you help ensure the laboratory remains audit-ready and aligned with VELAP, TNI, and applicable local, state, and federal regulations.
Detail-Oriented Data Reviewer: You possess exceptional attention to detail and a strong analytical mindset. You enjoy reviewing laboratory data, quality control results, and documentation to verify accuracy, identify potential issues, and support corrective actions that strengthen laboratory performance and compliance.
Collaborative Laboratory Partner: You work effectively with laboratory staff, auditors, and stakeholders to promote a culture of quality. You communicate clearly, provide constructive support, and help reinforce consistent adherence to approved methods, quality standards, and laboratory best practices.
Salary : $79,485 - $127,177