Process Engineer II

SUMMARY: Provides engineering support for the Blue Plains Wastewater Treatment Plant; evaluates the effectiveness and efficiency of all treatment processes and develops and implements procedures and methods to control plant performance. Responsible for operation of the Process Control and Computer System. Stays a breast of state-of-the-art engineering technology and industry practices. Conducts process studies and evaluates new products, processes, and techniques used in wastewater treatment processes; Develops feasibility proposals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 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 consultants and contractors.

EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE & OTHER MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED: The minimum qualifications listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and ability necessary for an individual to perform each essential function satisfactorily. Reasonable amounts of training are provided. Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Science or related field of study from an accredited college or university and five (5) years of progressive experience related to wastewater treatment processes; or equivalent combination of education and experience. At least one (1) year of experience should include writing process control strategies or software programs for digital process control equipment. A Master’s degree in Civil Engineering is preferred. Must possess and maintain a Class IV (ABC or equivalent) Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certification, or acquire within 24 months of employment and maintain current a Class IV (ABC or equivalent) Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certification. A District of Columbia Professional Engineering (PE) License is required at the time of hire. 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. Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills. Mastery of advanced concepts, principles, and practices of environmental engineering and ability to apply them on a practical level; knowledge of conventional methods and techniques used in engineering, chemical, and biological applications. Excellent human relations and communication skills, including listening, reading, oral and written communication skills; Ability to control wastewater treatment processes using digital systems; Ability to write software process control programs using distributed control systems and PLC HMI software, such as Intellution iFIX; Ability to troubleshoot digital control system hardware; Ability to organize, prioritize, schedule, complete, and follow-up on work activities so that activities are completed within time and budget constraints; Knowledge of related engineering field, such as electrical and/or mechanical engineering; Ability to use computer applications, such as word processing, spreadsheet, database, and e-mail programs.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF THE WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Although most work is performed under general office conditions, this position is subject to the following in the course of evaluating unit processes, construction and modifications within the facility: Indoor and/or outdoor environmental conditions that include exposure to extreme cold and hot temperatures. Atmospheric conditions that affect the respiratory system or skin such as fumes, odors, dusts, mists, gasses, or poor ventilation that requires the use of appropriate personal protective equipment to mitigate these conditions. Exposure to a variety of hazards such as high voltage, noise, chemicals, oils and other solvents, bacteria, pathogens and toxic substances. Varies with task assignments and location.

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.