Water Quality Scientist
Test and monitor water quality across rivers, treatment works and industrial sites.
This UK water quality scientist career guide covers what the role involves day to day, typical salary at each stage, the usual entry route, the skills employers expect, and related careers worth comparing.
Quick facts
- Starting salary
- £26,000 - £32,000
- Mid-career salary
- £34,000 - £48,000
- Senior salary
- £55,000 - £70,000
- Work environment
- Lab + field
- Time to entry
- 3 - 4 years (BSc)
- Degree required
- Often helpful
- Category
- Green Energy and Sustainability
What a Water Quality Scientist does
Test and monitor water quality across rivers, treatment works and industrial sites.
- Drinking Water - Sample and test drinking water for water companies.
- Wastewater - Monitor wastewater treatment plant compliance.
- River and Catchment - Monitor river quality for EA and water companies.
- Bathing Waters - Coastal and bathing water monitoring.
How to become a Water Quality Scientist
- Look up Water Quality Scientist roles on LinkedIn or Indeed and read 5 real job ads
- Talk to someone already working as a Water Quality Scientist - even a 15-minute call helps
- Find one beginner course or qualification used by people in this role
- Build one small piece of evidence you've explored this (project, shadowing, short course)
- Apply to one entry-level role or related opportunity within the next month
Key skills
- Sampling
- Lab analysis
- Reporting
- Regulations
- Driving licence