1. Agricultural Careers By: Dr. Frank Flanders and Anna Burgess Georgia Agricultural Education Curriculum Office Georgia Department of Education June 2005 START Water Specialist

2. Job Duties & Responsibilities Taking water samples Carrying out laboratory testing of samples Analyzing statistical data on water quality samples Visiting sites of concern, for example potential sources of pollution or contamination and sources of complaints about drinking water quality Suggesting changes and solutions to water quality problems Investigating pollution incidents from a scientific and legal viewpoint Arranging for emergency action in response to incidents Setting up field surveys Sharing information with water quality professionals from other agencies

3. Qualities and Skills A water specialist needs to have good communication skills, both written and oral in order to deliver their findings to the appropriate people in an adequate and professional manner. One must love working in the outdoors and indoors since much work will be done in both. Also, they need to be able to work independently and within groups of people ranging from specialist to homeowners.

4. Salary Salary ranges for a water specialist are from $30,680-$51,300 per year. With more experience and training earns will increase.

5. Work Environment Outdoors collecting water samples and indoors lab work Various weather conditions Travel may be required

6. Education A Bachelor's degree in Science is normally required to start a salaried position. Lower level, one-year water quality certification programs are available at some schools and are very advantageous when competing in this job market. There are different levels of certification and the higher levels offer a wider range of job opportunities.

7. Career Resources Environmental Protection Agency Internet: http://www.epa.gov National Environmental Health Association Internet: http://www.neha.org/ National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences Internet: http://www.niehs.nih.gov/ The Association for Environmental Health and Sciences Internet: http://www.aehs.com/ Georgia Environmental Health Association Internet: http://www.geha-online.org/ Environmental Health & Safety Online Internet: http://www.ehso.com/contents.php