The Process Engineer II provides engineering support for the Blue Plains Wastewater Treatment (WWT) Plant; evaluates the effectiveness and efficiency of all treatment processes and develops and implements procedures and methods to control plant performance. Responsible for Operations, Process Controls, Maintenance, and Asset Management for the WWT Plant. Conducts process studies and evaluates new products, processes, and techniques used in wastewater treatment processes; Develops feasibility proposals.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
Duties within the scope of the practice of engineering will be performed under the responsible charge of a District of Columbia licensed PE as defined in D.C. Official Code Section 47-2853.131. Scope of practice for engineers:
Recommends policies, procedures, methods, and practices to ensure that plant meets or exceeds NPDES permit requirements and enhances the safety, quality, effectiveness, and efficiency of operations.
Develops strategies to meet process objectives. Implements process control strategies through hands on use of the Process Control and Computer System, PLC systems, and various HMI software packages.
Reviews and interprets complex design drawings, plans, and specifications for proposed changes in existing facilities and for construction of new wastewater facilities; evaluates designs for functionality, cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and compliance with industry practices; performs detailed analysis to identify inadequacies, ambiguities, errors, and potential problems.
Designs new systems or modifies existing systems.
Identifies type and scope of work and develops work specifications; interfaces with vendors, contractors and consultants to direct, coordinate, inspect and accept work; identifies and resolves problems associated with contract work; recommends modifications to contract scope of work and/or enforcement of contract language.
Provides engineering support and guidance in troubleshooting complex process problems as needed to ensure that process, systems, and/or facility modifications enhance operation of facility. System troubleshooting includes digital control software and equipment.
Analyzes laboratory and other reports, including process efficiency data; identifies causes of non-routine events; recommends process control strategies and adjustments to process variables affecting the quantity and quality of process effluent; identifies how adjustments in one unit process impact other unit processes and overall plant performance.
Monitors process sampling strategies and recommends sampling protocols.
Writes regular and special technical reports. Writes, presents and publishes technical papers on wastewater treatment in national and international conferences and journals.
Plans work activities, develops schedules and assigns work to subordinates. Identifies training needs of subordinates; serves as a resource in teaching and guiding others in developing skills and knowledge.
Establishes, demonstrates and enforces high standards for safety, quality of work performed, and productivity; inspects work quality. Reports all hazards to the appropriate supervisor to ensure that safety and environmental hazards are corrected.
May also serve as Regulations Compliance Engineer, which includes other duties as assigned, such as managing a portion of the industrial pre-treatment program and ensuring compliance with the industrial storm water management program, the Clean Air Act, OSHA and EPA regulations, etc.
Performs other duties and projects as assigned at the discretion of the Manager, Process Engineering.
Supervisory Responsibilities: N/A
Key Working Relationships: Interacts with co-workers throughout the Authority, other government and private agencies, vendors, and contractors.
Skills & Qualifications:
The qualifications listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and ability necessary for an individual to perform each essential responsibility satisfactorily. Reasonable amounts of training are provided.
Required Experience:
Knowledge of general wastewater treatment plant practices, including knowledge of occupational hazards and the necessity for adherence to safety precautions; Knowledge of applicable regulations, such as EPA and OSHA requirements.
Knowledge of conventional methods and techniques used in engineering, chemical, and biological applications.
A minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience related to wastewater treatment processes.
Minimum Education Requirements:
Bachelor's degree in environmental, chemical engineering or related field of study from an ABET accredited college or university.
A District of Columbia Professional Engineering (PE) License is required at the time of hire.
Required Skills:
Troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
Mastery of and ability to apply advanced concepts, principles, and practices of environmental engineering on a practical level.
Key Working Relationships: Interacts with coworkers in the Department and throughout the Authority, contractors, engineers, government officials, and with the public.
We are proud to be an EEO/AA employer M/F/D/V.
We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing
The Americans with Disabilities Act prohibits discrimination against "qualified individuals with disabilities". If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please email complianceada@dcwater.com.