Dam Safety Engineer

Aqua America, Inc.; Bryn Mawr (PA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plans

Paid time off

Job summary

Aqua America, Inc. is hiring a Dam Safety Engineer to provide technical oversight for dam safety inspections and operational activities in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania. The role involves collaboration with multiple stakeholders to improve Aqua’s Dam Safety Program and includes significant on-site and field work.

Applicants should have a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, at least 4 years of relevant experience, and a PA Professional Engineer certification. The position offers competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of relevant experience in Dam Safety preferred.
• PA Professional Engineer (P.E.) certification or ability to obtain within 12 months.
• Valid Pennsylvania driver's license is required.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert input on dam-related decisions.
• Lead Aqua’s dam safety program and develop emergency action plans.
• Direct studies of engineering feasibility and safety studies.

Skills

Expertise in dam safety

Regulatory compliance

Financial analysis

Strong communication skills

Leadership capabilities

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Job description

Aqua, part of Essential Utilities, is a leader in safe, reliable water and wastewater services across Pennsylvania. We are seeking a highly skilled Dam Safety Engineer to join our team.

Location

Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania (some travel and overnight stays required)

Job Type

Full‑time

Position Overview

As a Dam Safety Engineer, you will provide technical oversight for engineering and operational activities related to dam safety inspections, monitoring, coordination, and reporting for water retention structures owned by Aqua. This includes low‑hazard and high‑hazard dams as well as floodwater protection systems at water treatment plants. You will collaborate with local consultants, PA DEP Dam Safety, and other stakeholders to implement and continuously improve Aqua’s Dam Safety Program.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert input and recommendations to leadership on decisions involving company dams and associated capital investments.
• Lead Aqua’s dam safety program, including engineering evaluations, emergency action plans, operation & maintenance plans, SOP development, training, and response.
• Direct studies of technical, environmental, and economic feasibility, engineering field studies, and dam design and safety studies.
• Provide technical direction for contracts and specifications related to dam safety and construction services.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and effective communication to senior leadership.
• Develop engineering staff through professional development and capacity building.
• Represent the company before regulatory agencies and provide professional testimony as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Civil engineering preferred).
• 4+ years of relevant experience, Dam Safety preferred.
• PA Professional Engineer (P.E.) certification, or ability to obtain within 12 months.
• Valid Pennsylvania driver’s license; ability to operate company vehicle.
• Strong knowledge of water retention facilities, contract administration, construction technology, regulatory developments, and industry trends.
• Proficient quantitative, analytical, and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; effective interpersonal skills.
• Leadership and stakeholder engagement capabilities.
• Financial analysis skills, including budget management and basic accounting.
• Willingness to foster relationships with regulatory authorities.

Travel & Working Conditions

• Frequent travel across Pennsylvania; up to 25% of the workweek may involve overnight stays.
• Field‑based work; significant on‑site time at project sites.
• Occasional lifting of up to 20 pounds.

Benefits and Compensation

Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Aqua is an equal opportunity employer and provides reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. Discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law is prohibited.