Environmental Engineer

Position Overview

This is a hands-on, central role that combines project management, technical leadership, engineering design, and team development. As the engineering leader at Pancopia, you will oversee all aspects of product development from concept through deployment, lead R&D programs, manage federal grant projects (e.g., DOE, USDA), and build scalable systems for agricultural wastewater treatment. You'll work closely with executive leadership and be a key point of contact for external partners, consultants, and contractors.

Key Responsibilities

Engineering & Technical Leadership

• Lead all phases of product development from concept through final deployment and commercialization.
• Design and prototype systems through multiple iterations, applying strong engineering principles.
• Conduct and utilize research on end-user experience, market trends, and system functionality.
• Evaluate information carefully and solve complex problems requiring both standard and creative solutions.
• Apply expertise in agricultural, civil, environmental, or biological systems engineering to wastewater treatment challenges.
• Document technical processes and present progress reports to stakeholders and funding agencies.

Project & Program Management

• Manage project budgets, timelines, resources, and schedules across multiple concurrent initiatives.
• Lead and coordinate grant-funded R&D programs for federal agencies (DOE, USDA, SBIR/STTR).
• Track deliverables, deadlines, and compliance requirements for government contracts.
• Oversee technical staff, consultants, subcontractors, and suppliers to ensure project success.
• Use project management tools and methodologies to maintain organization and accountability.
• Identify and implement process improvements to boost efficiency and scalability.

Team Leadership & Development

• Provide strong leadership with a problem-solving mentality and ability to motivate teams.
• Mentor and develop team members, fostering growth and technical excellence.
• Be an adaptable self-starter who can work independently and guide others effectively.
• Build and maintain a collaborative, mission-focused engineering culture.
• Communicate clearly with diverse stakeholders including executives, researchers, and field technicians.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering, Civil, Environmental, Biological Systems Engineering, or related field.
• 8-15 years of engineering experience, preferably with agricultural or environmental focus.
• Proven project management experience with demonstrated ability to lead complex projects.
• Technical supervisory experience managing engineers and technical staff.
• Strong analytical skills and design engineering abilities in prototyping systems.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint), computer-aided design tools, and data analysis software.
• Excellent communication skills for technical documentation and stakeholder presentations.
• Understanding of current agricultural challenges and environmental sustainability needs.

Preferred

• Master's or PhD degree in engineering field.
• Professional Engineering (PE) License.
• Experience working in a government-funded or SBIR/STTR research environment.
• Familiarity with federal grant compliance and documentation requirements.
• Exposure to project management certifications or methodologies (PMP, Six Sigma, Lean).
• Experience with wastewater treatment, water quality, or agricultural systems.

Attitudes & Work Habits

• Mission-Driven: Motivated by environmental sustainability and positive agricultural impact.
• Proactive & Independent: Takes ownership and anticipates needs without waiting for direction.
• Organized & Detail-Oriented: Keeps projects on track and documentation impeccable.
• Flexible & Adaptable: Thrives in a fast-moving startup environment with changing priorities.
• Collaborative & Trustworthy: Works effectively across disciplines and handles sensitive information professionally.
• Innovative & Curious: Enjoys creative problem-solving and exploring new technologies.