Top Echelon
Sr Design Engineer / Project Executive – Wastewater Biosolids Treatment Design / Municipals (Remote with Travel) #4981
A highly successful, 30+ year employee-owned EPC/GC firm is seeking an experienced Senior Design Engineer specializing in wastewater sludge treatment for municipals / publicly owned treatment works (POTWs). In this role, you will lead the design, upgrade, and optimization of sludge handling systems at municipal wastewater plants. You’ll deliver cost-effective, reliable, and fully compliant solutions for thickening, digestion, dewatering, and biosolids management—supporting critical public infrastructure that protects public health, promotes sustainability, and meets EPA, state, and local requirements.
Responsibilities
· Design and specify sludge treatment processes for municipal POTWs, including gravity thickeners, DAF units, anaerobic and aerobic digesters, belt presses, centrifuges, screw presses, and thermal dryers—balancing public-sector budgets with long-term reliability and performance.
· Conduct process modeling, solids mass balances, and hydraulic sizing to achieve Class A or Class B biosolids standards while optimizing for odor control, energy efficiency, and operation under regulatory oversight.
· Develop practical, low-maintenance biosolids management strategies such as land application, composting, or biogas-to-energy systems, ensuring alignment with local ordinances, community needs, and regional disposal options.
· Prepare detailed engineering reports, technical specifications, and accurate cost estimates.
· Ensure full compliance with EPA 40 CFR Part 503, NPDES permits, state biosolids regulations, and local public works standards; coordinate effectively with regulatory agencies during design reviews and permitting.
· Support construction, startup, and operator training by providing clear documentation, performance guarantees, and comprehensive handover packages.
· Evaluate existing POTW sludge systems for upgrades, identifying opportunities for energy savings, reduced O&M costs, and improved resilience to population growth or climate impacts.
· Collaborate with OEMs, service providers, municipal engineers, plant operators, and elected officials to balance technical excellence with fiscal responsibility and effective public communication.
Requirements
· Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Environmental, or Chemical Engineering (Master’s degree preferred).
· Professional Engineer (PE) license
· 5+ years of direct experience designing sludge/biosolids systems for publicly owned wastewater treatment facilities (municipal consulting or agency background strongly preferred).
· In-depth knowledge of municipal biosolids regulations and community-sensitive design considerations, including odor, noise, and truck traffic management.
· Proven ability to manage tight project timelines and handle change orders common in public-sector work.
· Willingness and ability to travel overnight 20–30% for project sites, client meetings, vendors, and company events within the mainland US.
· Strong written and verbal communication skills, with demonstrated experience in client-facing interactions.
Compensation and Benefits
· Base salary ranges from $100,000–$170,000 annually, depending on experience and credentials. In addition, you’ll receive a company and individual performance bonus, ESOP participation, and a year-end holiday bonus. Comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; 401(k); generous PTO; professional dues reimbursement; and tuition assistance for continuing education.
· This is a remote-eligible position with travel up to 30%, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere in the US while making a meaningful impact on sustainable wastewater infrastructure.
Keywords (for internal/ATS use): Biosolids, sludge treatment, wastewater solids, sewage sludge, POTW design, anaerobic digestion, dewatering, Class A/Class B biosolids, EPA 40 CFR Part 503, process modeling, municipal engineering.