Drinking Water Process Engineer

Kennedy Jenks; Walnut Creek (CA); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

401k

Tuition reimbursement

Competitive PTO and holiday plan

Bonus opportunities

Job summary

A leading engineering firm is seeking a Drinking Water Process Engineer to join the team in California. This role involves contributing to drinking water treatment projects, evaluating treatment processes, and supporting project teams. Ideal candidates should have a BS or MS in a relevant engineering field and at least 5 years of experience in drinking water treatment engineering. The position promotes a hybrid work model and offers a competitive salary range of $120,000 to $210,000 based on experience and qualifications.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in drinking water treatment engineering, including process design and system optimization.
• Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or Professional Engineer (PE) license; PE preferred or ability to obtain.
• Strong technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Contribute technical expertise in municipal drinking water treatment and water reuse.
• Participate in feasibility studies and facility planning for water treatment projects.
• Prepare technical deliverables, including basis of design reports and engineering drawings.
• Stay current on industry standards and emerging technologies.

Skills

Technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills

Collaborative work on multidisciplinary teams

Effective communication with clients and project staff

Education

BS or MS in Civil, Environmental, Chemical Engineering or related discipline

Job description

Founded in 1919, KJ has always looked to the future. With a talented team of professionals and a culture of continuous improvement, we deliver exceptional engineering, environmental consulting, and construction management services, with a focus on innovation and sustainability. Using advanced analytics, technology, and tools, KJ improves designs, reduces risk, and finds better ways to deliver projects from planning through construction.

KJ is at the forefront of developing sustainable solutions for clients, including green infrastructure design, strategies to reduce energy use and environmental impacts, award‑winning water reuse projects, and efficient construction management practices that ensure quality, safety, and on‑time delivery. We are known for our dedication to industry‑leading client service and tailored solutions.

Kennedy Jenks is seeking a Drinking Water Process Engineer to join our team in California and contribute to projects focused on drinking water treatment, water reuse, and advanced water purification. This role offers the opportunity to work on both local and national projects, applying your technical expertise to complex water treatment challenges. Candidates at all stages of their career who are ready to take on increasing technical responsibility, contribute to innovative solutions, and collaborate with experienced engineers are encouraged to apply.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute technical expertise in municipal drinking water treatment, water reuse, and advanced water purification, including evaluating treatment processes, selecting appropriate methods, conducting engineering studies, and optimizing operations.
• Support project teams and client service managers in project pursuits, meetings, and technical discussions.
• Participate in feasibility studies, facility planning, and pilot testing for water treatment projects.
• Prepare technical deliverables, including basis of design reports, preliminary and detailed engineering drawings, specifications, process flow diagrams, and process instrumentation diagrams.
• Evaluate and optimize operations of existing water treatment facilities.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to less experienced engineers when appropriate, and collaborate with senior engineers on technical solutions.
• Stay current on industry standards, emerging technologies, and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

• BS or MS in Civil, Environmental, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline
• 5+ years of experience in drinking water treatment engineering, including process design, system optimization, or operational evaluation
• Engineer‑in‑Training (EIT) or Professional Engineer (PE) license; PE preferred or ability to obtain
• Strong technical, analytical, and problem‑solving skills
• Ability to work collaboratively on multidisciplinary teams and communicate effectively with clients and project staff

Kennedy Jenks supports a healthy work‑life balance and utilizes a hybrid model of home and office work, with a minimum of two days per week in the office. This approach empowers our people to thrive, collaborate, and achieve their full potential.

Salary range for this position is expected to be between $120,000 and $210,000, and may vary based upon education, experience, qualifications, licensure/certifications, and geographic location.

This position is eligible for performance and incentive compensation.

Benefits Summary

Kennedy Jenks offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, 401k, bonus opportunities, tuition reimbursement, professional registration support, a competitive PTO and holiday plan, and other benefits and programs.

Kennedy Jenks is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, pregnancy and pregnancy‑related conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, disability, citizenship status, genetics, protected veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable law.