Job Title: Process Control Engineer (Water Treatment)

Job Summary:

The Mid-Level Process Control Engineer (Water Treatment) is responsible for optimizing, maintaining, and troubleshooting process control systems used in water treatment plants. This role focuses on ensuring that water purification systems are functioning efficiently, safely, and in compliance with environmental regulations. The engineer will work closely with senior engineers, operators, and maintenance teams to manage water quality parameters such as pH, chlorine levels, turbidity, and other critical factors. The position offers the opportunity to take a more active role in improving process performance, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Process Control System Optimization:

   • Lead efforts to optimize process control systems for water treatment processes, including filtration, chemical dosing, disinfection, and pumping systems.
   • Work with senior engineers to implement control strategies for maintaining key water quality parameters (e.g., pH, chlorine levels, turbidity) within target ranges.
   • Identify process inefficiencies and recommend improvements to enhance system performance, reduce operational costs, and increase energy efficiency.

2. Water Quality Monitoring and Management:

   • Oversee the continuous monitoring of water quality parameters, ensuring they meet required standards for safe drinking water.
   • Analyze trends and anomalies in water quality data to identify potential issues and address them promptly.
   • Collaborate with quality assurance teams to ensure that water treatment processes comply with environmental and regulatory standards, and support water quality testing and compliance reporting.

3. System Integration and Troubleshooting:

   • Lead troubleshooting and diagnostic efforts for process control systems, including SCADA, PLCs, and instrumentation, to resolve complex system faults.
   • Ensure seamless integration of new sensors, equipment, and technologies into the existing water treatment control systems.
   • Work with maintenance teams to identify the root causes of system failures and implement corrective and preventive measures to minimize downtime.

4. Process Improvement and Innovation:

   • Work with senior engineers to identify opportunities for process improvements, such as reducing chemical usage, optimizing filtration processes, or improving operational efficiency.
   • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement new technologies or upgrade existing systems to enhance treatment efficiency and water quality.
   • Contribute to the development and implementation of best practices, continuous improvement programs, and lean manufacturing initiatives in water treatment processes.

5. Regulatory Compliance and Reporting:

   • Ensure water treatment processes meet environmental and regulatory compliance standards, including water quality monitoring and reporting requirements.
   • Help prepare reports for regulatory agencies and senior management on system performance, water quality parameters, and compliance status.
   • Maintain records of water quality and process control data to ensure traceability and compliance with internal and external audits.

6. Project Management and Execution:

   • Lead or participate in projects related to process optimization, system upgrades, or new installations.
   • Manage resources, timelines, and budget to ensure successful execution of projects while minimizing disruptions to plant operations.
   • Oversee project documentation, including system designs, commissioning plans, and testing protocols.

7. Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing:

   • Work closely with operators, maintenance teams, and engineers to ensure effective system operation and troubleshooting.
   • Provide training to junior engineers, operators, and technicians on process control systems, troubleshooting techniques, and best practices.
   • Collaborate with other departments to ensure water treatment processes are aligned with operational goals, regulatory requirements, and customer expectations.

8. Data Management and Analysis:

   • Oversee the collection, analysis, and management of data from water quality monitoring systems and process control systems.
   • Use data analytics to support decision-making, identify system improvements, and optimize plant operations.
   • Develop and review performance reports, operational metrics, and analysis to inform strategic planning and operational improvements.

Key Focus Areas:

• Process Control System Optimization: Lead efforts to optimize the performance of water treatment systems and control processes to ensure high efficiency and compliance with water quality standards.
• Troubleshooting and System Improvement: Address and resolve issues in process control systems, ensure system integration, and contribute to ongoing improvements in water treatment technologies.
• Water Quality Monitoring and Compliance: Oversee the continuous monitoring of water quality parameters and ensure compliance with environmental regulations and industry standards.
• Project Management and Cross-Functional Collaboration: Manage projects related to process optimization, system upgrades, and cross-functional collaboration for better operational performance.

Skills and Knowledge Required:

• Solid experience with process control systems, including SCADA, PLCs, and instrumentation, in the context of water treatment or similar industrial processes.
• In-depth knowledge of water quality parameters (e.g., pH, chlorine, turbidity) and their importance in maintaining safe drinking water standards.
• Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills, with the ability to resolve complex control system issues quickly and effectively.
• Knowledge of environmental regulations and compliance standards relevant to water treatment and water quality management.
• Ability to analyze and interpret data to improve process efficiency and meet regulatory standards.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams, operators, and senior management.

Educational Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Certifications in process control, SCADA systems, PLC programming, or water treatment are a plus.

Experience:

• 3-5 years of experience in process control, automation, or water treatment engineering, with hands-on experience in troubleshooting, optimizing, and maintaining process control systems.
• Experience working with SCADA, PLCs, and water quality monitoring systems in a water treatment or industrial setting is highly preferred.

Tools and Technologies:

• Proficiency with SCADA software (e.g., Wonderware, Siemens WinCC, Ignition), PLC programming, and industrial control systems.
• Familiarity with water quality monitoring instruments, sensors, and systems (e.g., pH sensors, chlorine analyzers).
• Experience with data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, SQL, Power BI) and reporting systems.

Other Requirements:

• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize work effectively.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for site assessments, troubleshooting, or system upgrades.