Engineer C - Process Engineering

About This Position

ABOUT AUSTIN WATER:
For over 100 years, Austin Water has been committed to providing safe, reliable, high-quality, and affordable water services to our customers. Today, we serve over 1,000,000 people in the Austin metropolitan area, across more than 548 square miles. The utility draws water from the Colorado River into three regional water treatment plants, Handcox, Davis, and Ullrich, which have a combined capacity of 335 million gallons per day. Austin Water has two wastewater treatment plants, Walnut Creek and South Austin Regional, that can receive up to 150 million gallons per day of sewage to treat. Wastewater is cleaned into high-quality effluent that is safely returned to the Colorado River to augment environmental flows. More than a billion gallons of this high-quality effluent are reclaimed each year for outdoor irrigation, industrial cooling, manufacturing, and other uses.

Austin Water consistently ranks among the best in the country when it comes to water quality. We also treat, return, and recycle wastewater in ways that protect environmental resources. Austin Water exceeds federal and state requirements for clean water and environmental compliance at our water and wastewater treatment plants.

Job Description:

Engineer C

Purpose:

Under minimal supervision with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment, this position performs highly complex engineering functions that include designing, planning, and overseeing work in support of construction, maintenance, and alteration of structures, facilities, processes, equipment, and systems.

Duties, Functions and Responsibilities:

Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.

• Approves, processes, and seals plans, specifications, or construction documents by applying engineering standardization of practices and principles of highly technical and complex calculations for applied discipline within Local and State regulatory requirements.
• Manages engineering projects that are technically complex, highly visible, priority projects or programs. These projects require a high level of technical proficiency as well as coordinative and administrative responsibility.
• Identifies, evaluates, and provides improvement recommendations with preliminary and final designs and design criteria for assigned program or projects that may be complex and non-routine. Assists in the preparation of preliminary and long-range plans, schedules, estimates, budgets, detailed final plans, specifications, special conditions, and agreements. Provides technical oversight of project progress from design through completion.
• Develops cost estimates, tracks expenditures, and prepares cost estimates and engineering and feasibility reports and studies for projects. Prepares and assists with preliminary contract documents, specifications, and plans. Prepares final plans, specifications, special conditions, and agreements and coordinates and oversees work of contractors, affected public agencies, and utilities. Writes complex technical specifications for construction contracts.
• Reviews plans and approves permits by applying complex engineering standardization of practices and principles for applied discipline within Local and State regulatory requirements.
• Inspects and monitors projects for legal compliance by reviewing work completed by contractors and ensuring compliance to specifications by completing complex calculations that are used to further provide analysis of preliminary results of a project.
• Develops cost estimates or tracks expenditures by reviewing and writing contract change orders in the area of technical expertise and negotiates and recommends financial arrangements for changes to contract.
• Leads, as necessary, activities of a design team in the preparation of preliminary and long-range plans, schedules, estimates, budgets, detail final construction plans, specifications, and agreements.
• Conducts field inspections of work done by contractors to ensure compliance with plans and specifications. Drafts and recommends approval of contract change orders.
• Researches and performs statistical analysis for validation of reports and publication of results in various communication formats.
• Develops standard operating procedures, policies, and ordinances for various contracts or projects. May provide analysis and recommendation of performance of various personnel assigned by contract or projects.
• Is responsible for designing and maintain database systems for project or program areas.
• Prepares and delivers presentations to public, City Council, or customers.

Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:

May provide leadership, work assignments, evaluation, training, and guidance to others.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.

• Knowledge of diversified, fundamental scientific and civil engineering concepts, phenomena, and relationships, and utilize such changes in solution of theoretical or practical civil engineering problems.
• Knowledge of advanced mathematical techniques such as trigonometry, calculus, and coordinate geometry.
• Knowledge of modern methods, materials, and techniques of assigned discipline.
• Knowledge of one or more of the following disciplines: Civil, Environmental, Structural, Architectural, Mechanical, and/or Electrical engineering terminology and techniques.
• Knowledge of City of Austin purchasing and contract policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of applicability of established engineering principles and methods.
• Knowledge of phases of the plans review and inspections processes.
• Knowledge of preparation of cost estimates and engineering and feasibility reports.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements within Local and State ordinances and laws.
• Skill in oral and written technical or general communication including preparation of written reports.
• Skill in negotiations and handling conflict resolution.
• Ability to perform more complex engineering computations, calculus, geometry, and trigonometry, rapidly and accurately.
• Ability to interpret and explain maps and other related documents.
• Ability to interpret and make decisions not within established policies and practices.
• Ability to coordinate the efforts of a multi-discipline, multi-agency project team to complete a defined assignment or CIP.
• Ability to communicate and provide direction to peers and assigned personnel.
• Ability to organize, analyze, interpret, and evaluate scientific civil engineering problems and provide practical, cost-effective solutions.
• Ability to observe, compare, or monitor objects and data to determine compliance with prescribed operating or safety standards.
• Ability to use graphic instructions, such as blueprints, schematic drawings, layouts, or other visual aids.
• Ability to use a personal computer, engineering applications, and data management software.

Minimum Qualifications:

Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Engineering or in a field related to the job, plus eight (8) years of engineering experience acquired before and/or after licensing as a professional engineer.

Licenses and Certifications Required:

Licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) in the State of Texas; or if currently licensed in another state, must have the ability to obtain a Texas P.E. license within six (6) months of employment.

Preferred Experience:

• Bachelor or higher of Science in Civil, Environmental, Water Resources Engineering or related field.
• Experience or knowledge in water or wastewater treatment processes.
• Experience or knowledge in design, construction, and/or operation of water or wastewater treatment plants.
• Experience or knowledge in water or wastewater regulatory compliance and reporting.
• Experience with technical writing and presenting to a wide range of technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Experience building, calibrating, and analyzing process models using Sumo, BioWin, and/or GPS-X.
• Familiarity with biological nutrient removal (BNR) principles and techniques in municipal wastewater treatment.
• Ability to learn from and collaborate with peers.
• Ability to travel to more than one work location.

Notes to Candidate:

Position Overview:

Austin Water's Process Engineering team supports the reliable and efficient operation of our wastewater treatment facilities. We work closely with plant Operations staff to troubleshoot treatment process issues, improve performance, maintain regulatory compliance, and identify opportunities to reduce energy and chemical usage while strengthening plant resiliency.

This is a hands-on engineering role that combines technical analysis with time spent in the treatment plants. Approximately 25% of the position's time is spent in the field, working directly with operators to understand process challenges, evaluate operating conditions, and implement improvements. Other responsibilities include analyzing process data, optimizing biological nutrient removal, evaluating treatment technologies, supporting regulatory compliance, and contributing to capital improvement projects in a technical review role.

Our team works on a wide range of challenges involving wastewater treatment processes, equipment, operating strategies, and strategic long-term facility performance. This position offers the opportunity to apply engineering principles to real-world problems, collaborate with experienced operators and engineers, and see the results of your work in the performance of our facilities. You'll have the opportunity to work with a diverse range of wastewater treatment technologies, contribute to high-profile and innovative projects, and collaborate with some of the industry's leading engineers.

We're looking for someone who enjoys understanding how treatment processes work, solving technical problems, collaborating with plant staff, and turning engineering recommendations into practical improvements that benefit our operations, our customers, and the environment.

Pay Range:

$102,910.00 - $131,700.00

Position(s) will be filled at the following location:

• South Austin Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant, 13009 Fallwell Ln, Del Valle, Tx 78617

Days and Hours:

• Monday through Friday, 7:30am to 4:30am
• Flexibility and the option to telework

Benefits:

Working with Austin Water provides a number of health and welfare benefits, such as medical, paid leave time, a great retirement plan, training opportunities and more – click HERE for more information.

When completing the City of Austin employment application:

• A detailed, complete employment application is required. It helps us to better evaluate your qualifications and will be used to determine salary if you are selected for this position.
• Provide each job title and accurate employment dates for all jobs included on the application.
• Your work history should include the duties you performed, any supervisory or lead responsibilities, and any equipment and computer software used.
• The City of Austin employment application is an official document; incomplete applications will not be considered.
• A résumé is required but will not substitute for a complete employment application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
• A cover letter is also required. In the cover letter candidates should describe, in concise detail, their interest in this position and highlight any prior experience that is relevant to this position.

If you are selected as a top candidate:

• Verification of your education (which may include high school graduation or GED, undergraduate and/or graduate degrees) will be required. You must provide proof of education from an accredited organization/institution.
• If you are in the military or a veteran, you will need to provide a copy of your DD-214 prior to confirming a start date.
• A criminal background investigation is required.

Retention Incentive Bonus:

This position may be eligible for an Incentive Bonus of up to $3,000!

$500 after 90 days.

$500 after 180 days.

$1,000 after 1 year.

$1,000 after 2 years.

Technical Licensure:

Licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) in the State of Texas; or if currently licensed in another state, must have the ability to obtain a Texas P.E. license within six (6) months of employment.

Critical Employee:

• This position has been designated as critical for the City of Austin. Critical positions are necessary and vital and support activities that impact City or department operations. Work can be done while at a designated work site or while working at an alternate work location. Critical employees may be reassigned to another area to provide essential services to support any extraordinary situations or emergency conditions.

Secondary Employment:

• All Austin Water employees are prohibited from accepting or engaging in any secondary employment that might conflict or interfere with an employee’s duty and responsibility to the Department.
• Austin Water will review all secondary employment.
• Employees are required to submit a Secondary Employment Application for review and approval upon being hired with Austin Water, as well as current Austin Water employees considering secondary employment.

EEO Statement for City of Austin:

• The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual's AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk.
• City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call (512) 974-3210 or Texas Relay by dialing 7-1-1.

Important Note to Applicants:

All Austin Water worksite locations are tobacco-free.

Use of tobacco products and/or e-cigarettes is not permitted on any AW worksite – including construction sites, parking lots, garages or in any personal vehicle located on the premises.

Please be aware that the Job Posting Close Date reflects the final day to apply, but the posting will close at 11:59 PM the day before the date listed. All application steps, including attachments and submission, must be fully completed before that time. The posting may also close at any time after seven days.

We also recommend that you save or print a copy of the job posting for your records. Once a posting has closed, it will no longer be viewable in the system.

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JOIN THE CITY OF AUSTIN TEAM

 

At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer—we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. As we strive to fulfill our commitment as public servants, it is important that we ground our efforts in a set of guiding principles – Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity – that anchor our delivery of services that significantly impact the lives of Austinites. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee.

What Makes the City of Austin Special?

• Make a Difference: Join a team driving meaningful change in one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation.

• Value and Innovation: Work in an environment where employees are valued, and innovation thrives.

• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.

• Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.

• Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.

• Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.

• Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.

• Modern Workspaces: Work in innovative and sustainable environments that foster collaboration and inspiration.

 

By joining us, you become part of a community that values its people and is committed to making Austin the most thriving and resilient city in the country.

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EEO Statement for City of Austin:

The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual's AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk.

City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call (512) 974-3210 or Texas Relay by dialing 7-1-1.