Combustion Engineer / Scientist

ERG; Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and dental insurance

Generous 401k plan

Educational benefits

Job summary

A research and consulting firm is seeking a highly motivated Combustion Engineer or Scientist to join its technical team. This role requires a strong academic background in engineering or environmental science, with opportunities to lead complex projects and contribute to notable environmental research. Key responsibilities include designing combustion systems, collaborating with scientists and engineers, and maintaining compliance records. The ideal candidate will have 2-10 years of relevant experience and technical proficiency in tools like Microsoft Excel and PLC programming. Excellent benefits and competitive salaries are offered.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from an accredited institution.
• 2–10 years of experience in a research or testing environment with exposure to combustion systems.
• Experience applying EPA air emissions methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot, evaluate, design, and operate advanced combustion systems.
• Collaborate directly with EPA personnel through technical meetings.
• Maintain accurate handwritten and electronic records.

Skills

Troubleshooting combustion systems

Technical documentation writing

Data analysis

Mechanical aptitude

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Science, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Excel

PLC programming

Data acquisition systems

Job description

ERG is a research and consulting firm that provides a wide range of support to federal, state, and commercial clients. ERG offers multidisciplinary teams with nationally recognized skills in engineering, science, economics, public health, informational technology, and communications. We hire people with the best minds and then provide them with a vibrant and flexible environment in which to develop their careers. The qualified individual must be highly motivated with the skills to prioritize, perform, and communicate effectively in a fast-paced environment.

We are seeking a highly motivated Combustion Engineer or Scientist to join our growing technical team. This role is ideal for a driven professional with strong academic training in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field who is eager to take ownership of complex projects and contribute to meaningful environmental and combustion research.

The successful candidate will initially focus on hands-on technical execution and will quickly grow into opportunities to lead projects, influence technical direction, and support team development.

Job Description

• Troubleshoot, evaluate, design, and operate advanced combustion systems
• Partner with environmental scientists, engineers, and technical specialists to support combustion source measurements for the EPA
• Diagnose and resolve operational issues within combustion facilities, including control systems, replacement part sourcing, and repair coordination
• Configure sampling equipment and collect emissions data in accordance with EPA methodologies (e.g., Method 5)
• Design and implement sampling systems, including continuous emissions monitoring technologies such as gas analyzers, FTIR, and particle measurement instruments
• Analyze and review data to ensure alignment with project quality objectives while identifying opportunities for process improvement
• Collaborate directly with EPA personnel through technical meetings and operational initiatives
• Maintain accurate handwritten and electronic records in compliance with records management standards
• Execute all work in accordance with established safety and quality assurance protocols

Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Science, Environmental Technology, or a related discipline from an accredited institution
• 2–10 years of experience in a research or testing environment with exposure to combustion systems
• Demonstrated experience implementing safety protocols, including authoring safety guidance documents
• Strong technical proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Word, data acquisition systems, PLC programming, and industrial control configuration
• Hands-on mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot and operate complex systems such as furnaces
• Skilled in the use of hand tools for equipment installation and repair
• Solid understanding of combustion principles, including fuel stoichiometry and criteria pollutants
• Ability to interpret technical manuals, equipment documentation, and laboratory procedures
• Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
• Experience applying EPA air emissions methodologies
• Proven ability to write technical documentation, including safety plans, operational procedures, facility manuals, and technical reports
• Occasional lifting up to 35 lbs. (<5%)
• Climbing (<10%)
• Regular use of industrial PPE, including safety glasses, protective footwear, lab coats, and gloves
• Limited exposure to hot or cold environments (<5%)
• Work in moderate industrial noise environments (<10%)

Benefits

ERG offers competitive salaries and excellent benefits, including health and dental insurance, life insurance, long-term disability, educational benefits, FSAs, a generous 401k plan, profit sharing, an EAP, 11-20 paid vacation days per year, 10 paid holidays per year, 56 hours or more of sick leave (based on the state you work in) per year (pro-rated for part-time) and more. The salary range for all positions depends on the years and type of experience.

ERG is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable EEOC regulations. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Please be aware, the only authentic corporate domain for ERG is https://www.erg.com. ERG may, on occasion, screen applicants via telephone or video interviews via Skype, Teams, GoToMeeting, or another type of video platform. However, any candidate extended a job offer might be asked to meet in person with an ERG employee before providing confidential personal information associated with new employment.

If you’re a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access ERG’s online application process as a result of your disability. To request accommodation, please contact Human Resources via email at [e-mail] or call [phone].

ERG fosters a friendly, flexible work environment. ERGers are dedicated to serving clients who are committed to making the world a better place. We promote and recognize principles of fairness and respect in the work we do, the partnerships we foster, and the culture we value both within and outside of our organization.