Sr Design Engineer / Project Executive – Wastewater Biosolids Treatment

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.