Water Quality Scientist

Full-Time, with Benefits

Safe, sustainable water is essential to life. Do you enjoy science and learning new things? Are you interested in some variety in your work week and a mix of indoor and outdoor work? This might be a great opportunity for you!

Washington County Water Conservancy District is looking to add a full-time Water Quality Scientist to our team in St. George, UT.

WCWCD is a dynamic team of great people, committed to meeting the increasing water needs of one of the fastest growing metropolitan areas in the US.

GENERAL PURPOSE

Responsible for performing technical work related to collecting and analyzing water samples, developing and implement water quality programs, preparing reports, calibrating equipment and cleaning and maintaining the lab. Work will include obtaining and maintaining Utah Level IV certifications for Water Distribution and Treatment Plant Operator was well as operating the Quail Treatment Plant.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Directly surprised by Water Treatment Supervisor and Operations Manager.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

None.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Utilizes standard procedures to take water samples at plant and field facilities to be analyzed in-house or by contract labs.
• Develops and helps implement various water quality programs, such as, reservoir monitoring and watershed protection programs.
• Monitors water quality and flow readings.

• Prepares and analyzes in-plant water samples for pH, TSS, TDS, turbidity, etc.
• Calibrates and maintains water quality meters and equipment, including gas chromatograph mass spectrometer and zeta potential meter.
• Cleans and maintains lab and lab equipment.
• Performs tests, studies and research to optimize plant performance and water quality.
• Maintains a variety of records related to water treatment plant activities and analysis.

• Monitors and compiles information for the issuance of state regulatory permits and prepares related reports.
• Monitors treatment plant chemical use and aids in procurement.
• Monitors and identifies algae in source waters, recommends and guides reservoir treatment.
• Assists with aquatic invasive species management.
• Performs the duties of a water treatment plant operator if needed.

• Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

A bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology or closely related field;

AND

At least one year of experience in a related field.

OR

An equivalent combination of training and experience may also be considered.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of:

• Standard laboratory and safety procedures.
• Advanced chemistry and algebra as related to water treatment.
• Operation and function of pumps, motors and related machinery as related to water treatment, including the proper use of hand and power tools.

Ability to:

• Ability to compute rate, ratio and percent and to prepare and interpret bar graphs.
• Ability to be able to accurately mix chemicals and calculate flow rates and chemical dosages, reconcile feed pump calibrations, calculate disinfectant contact time compliance, etc.
• Use District’s SCADA system for plant operation and monitoring; acquisition, interpretation, and reporting of data.
• Use a personal computer and software including email, appointment scheduling, and spreadsheets.

• Learn water plant layout and processes by manual or computerized control.
• Read and write in English at a college level.
• Understand and follow oral and written instruction.
• Establish working relationships with associates, employees of other agencies and the public.

Special Qualifications:

• Must possess a valid Utah Driver’s License and maintain insurability under the District’s vehicle insurance policy.
• Must obtain Utah Water Treatment, Grade IV certification within one year of hire date.
• Must be willing to take and pass a pre-employment drug test and submit to a criminal background check.

Benefits

Washington County Water Conservancy District (WCWCD) covers regular full-time employees and their qualified dependents on their date of hire with medical and dental insurance. A traditional plan and a HDHP with HSA are available at a very affordable rate.

WCWCD also provides $50k in employee term life and AD&D insurance as well as long term disability. In addition to an outstanding Utah State Retirement (URS), WCWCD matches 6% employee contributions into a 401(K) plan for all benefited employees beginning on the date of hire. WCWCD provides 13 paid holidays & 18 PTO days per year for first 5 years which increases with seniority. WCWCD also offers a generous education reimbursement benefit.

Job posting closes 12/08/2025 at 8:30 AM Mountain Time