Job Title: Process Control Engineer (Water Treatment)
Job Summary:
The Process Control Engineer (Water Treatment) is responsible for assisting in the operation and optimization of water purification and treatment systems, ensuring that water quality is consistently monitored and maintained to meet environmental and regulatory compliance standards. This entry-level role provides an opportunity to learn about the technical and regulatory aspects of water treatment processes, control systems, and quality monitoring. The Process Control Engineer will work under the guidance of senior engineers to support process control systems, monitor water quality parameters, and help maintain the effectiveness of water treatment processes.
Key Responsibilities:
Water Treatment Systems Control Support:
- Assist in the operation and monitoring of water purification and treatment systems, including pumps, filtration systems, chemical dosing, and disinfection processes.
- Support the configuration and fine-tuning of control systems for water treatment processes, including monitoring and controlling flow rates, pressure levels, and chemical dosages.
- Help ensure the efficient operation of automated systems used in water treatment, assisting senior engineers with system adjustments and optimizations.
Monitoring and Analysis of Water Quality:
- Assist in monitoring key water quality parameters such as pH, chlorine levels, turbidity, and temperature to ensure that they are within required standards.
- Support the collection and analysis of water quality data, identifying trends, anomalies, and areas for process optimization.
- Help interpret and record water quality data to ensure compliance with environmental and regulatory requirements.
Environmental and Regulatory Compliance:
- Assist in ensuring that water treatment processes comply with local, state, and federal regulations related to water quality and environmental standards.
- Support the preparation and submission of regulatory reports related to water quality testing and compliance.
- Help implement changes or corrective actions as required by regulatory agencies to meet compliance standards.
Control Systems Troubleshooting and Support:
- Provide basic troubleshooting support for process control systems, sensors, and other instrumentation used in water treatment processes.
- Assist senior engineers in diagnosing and addressing minor issues related to system performance or water quality monitoring equipment.
- Help ensure that control systems are functioning correctly, maintaining efficient operations and water quality standards.
Process Optimization Support:
- Work with senior engineers to identify opportunities for improving the efficiency of water treatment processes.
- Assist in implementing improvements in process control systems to enhance water treatment performance, reduce energy consumption, or optimize chemical usage.
- Help evaluate process changes and their impact on water quality and treatment efficiency.
Data Management and Reporting:
- Help maintain accurate records of water quality parameters, process control settings, and system performance data.
- Support the preparation of reports on water quality monitoring, treatment system performance, and compliance with regulations.
- Assist in the analysis of historical data to identify patterns and provide insights for improving water treatment processes.
Collaboration and Communication:
- Work closely with the operations team, maintenance staff, and senior engineers to ensure smooth and efficient water treatment operations.
- Provide support to plant operators, answering questions about control systems, water quality parameters, and process performance.
- Participate in team meetings to discuss system performance, regulatory compliance, and opportunities for process improvements.
Learning and Development:
- Develop technical expertise in water treatment systems, process control systems, and regulatory compliance.
- Participate in on-the-job training, workshops, and seminars to improve knowledge and skills in water quality monitoring, control systems, and water treatment technologies.
- Stay updated on industry trends, best practices, and new technologies related to water treatment processes.
Key Focus Areas:
- Water Treatment Systems Control: Support the operation and monitoring of water purification and treatment systems to maintain optimal performance.
- Water Quality Monitoring: Assist in the continuous monitoring and analysis of water quality parameters to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
- Environmental and Regulatory Compliance: Help ensure that water treatment processes meet environmental regulations and water quality standards.
- Process Optimization: Support efforts to optimize water treatment processes for improved efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced water quality.
Skills and Knowledge Required:
- Basic understanding of water treatment processes, including purification, filtration, chemical dosing, and disinfection methods.
- Familiarity with water quality monitoring parameters (e.g., pH, chlorine levels, turbidity) and the importance of maintaining these parameters within safe limits.
- Knowledge of basic process control systems, instrumentation, and automation.
- Strong attention to detail with the ability to monitor system performance and identify potential issues.
- Good analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess and interpret data.
- Effective communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with plant operators, senior engineers, and other teams.
Educational Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
- Basic coursework or certifications related to water treatment processes, environmental regulations, or process control systems is a plus.
Experience:
- No prior experience required; internships, academic projects, or hands-on training related to water treatment processes, control systems, or environmental compliance is advantageous.
- Exposure to process control systems, water treatment, or environmental engineering through coursework or projects is beneficial.
Tools and Technologies:
- Familiarity with water quality monitoring equipment and sensors (e.g., pH meters, chlorine analyzers).
- Basic understanding of SCADA or process control software and systems (e.g., PLCs, HMI).
- Familiarity with environmental regulations and standards governing water quality is a plus.
Other Requirements:
- Strong interest in water treatment technologies, process control, and environmental engineering.
- Eagerness to learn and grow in a dynamic, fast-paced water treatment environment.
- Ability to work under the supervision of senior engineers and collaborate effectively with plant staff.
- Commitment to maintaining safety standards and ensuring the quality of water treatment processes.