UPW Engineer

MGC Pure Chemicals America, Inc.; Mesa (AZ); On-site; USD 130,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) matching

Dental insurance

Health insurance

Life insurance

Paid time off

Vision insurance

In person work

Job summary

Water Otter Job Board is seeking an UPW Engineer to design, operate, and optimize ultra-pure water systems at our high-purity chemical plants in the Mesa area. The role emphasizes maintaining top water quality using RO, DI, UV oxidation, and filtration technologies.

You will monitor system performance, troubleshoot issues, and lead continuous improvement initiatives across cross-functional teams while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• 3-5 years of UPW system operation/maintenance experience.
• Strong understanding of water purification technologies (RO, DI, UV).
• Experience with water quality monitoring/control systems.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement and optimize UPW systems to meet purity requirements.
• Oversee daily UPW system operation and maintenance to minimize downtime.
• Monitor water quality parameters and enforce regulatory compliance.
• Analyze data to identify trends and propose improvements.
• Lead or participate in UPW system upgrade projects.

Skills

Process control software

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Project management

Education

Bachelor’s in Chemical/Mechanical Engineering

Master’s degree (plus)

Tools

RO

DI

UV oxidation

Ultrafiltration

Water quality monitoring systems

Job description

Overview:

The UPW Engineer will be responsible for the design, operation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of the Ultra-Pure Water (UPW) systems at our high-purity chemical plants. This role is critical to ensuring the consistent supply of high-quality UPW, which is essential for our manufacturing processes.

Key Responsibilities:

System Design and Optimization:

Design, implement, and optimize UPW systems to meet stringent purity requirements for various manufacturing processes. This includes the use of reverse osmosis (RO), deionization (DI), filtration, UV oxidation, and other relevant technologies.

Operation and Maintenance:

Oversee the daily operation of UPW systems, ensuring they function efficiently and reliably. Conduct regular maintenance activities, troubleshoot issues, and perform corrective actions to minimize downtime.

Quality Assurance:

Monitor water quality parameters (e.g., resistivity, total organic carbon (TOC), particles, bacteria) to ensure compliance with industry standards and internal specifications. Implement and manage control systems to maintain UPW quality.

Data Analysis and Reporting:

Analyze operational data to identify trends, detect potential issues, and recommend improvements. Prepare regular reports on UPW system performance for management and regulatory bodies.

Project Management:

Lead or participate in projects aimed at upgrading or expanding UPW systems. This includes managing timelines, budgets, and coordinating with cross-functional teams, contractors, and vendors.

Regulatory Compliance:

Ensure that UPW systems comply with all relevant industry regulations, standards, and safety guidelines. Prepare documentation and reports required for regulatory submissions and audits.

Continuous Improvement:

Stay updated on the latest UPW technologies and industry best practices. Proactively identify opportunities for system upgrades, process improvements, and cost savings.

Team Collaboration:

Work closely with multi-site process engineers, production teams, and quality control personnel and maintenance teams to ensure UPW systems support overall plant operations. Provide training and technical support to other team members as needed.

Qualifications:

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field. A Master’s degree is a plus.

Experience:

• 3-5 years of experience in operating and maintaining UPW systems in a high-purity chemical plant, semiconductor facility, or similar environment.
• Strong understanding of water purification technologies, including RO, DI, UV oxidation, and ultrafiltration.
• Experience with water quality monitoring and control systems.

Skills:

• Proficiency in using process control software and tools for monitoring and managing UPW systems.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work effectively in a team-oriented environment.

Certifications:

Relevant certifications in water treatment, such as Certified Water Technologist (CWT), are advantageous but not required.

Physical Requirements / Working Conditions:

Work Environment:

This role may require business travel to remote manufacturing sites (less than 15%), and the candidate should be prepared to adhere to strict cleanliness and contamination control protocols at the manufacturing sites.

Physical Requirements:

The role may involve standing for extended periods, working with high-pressure systems, and handling hazardous chemicals under safe conditions.

Safety Sensitive Position:

MGC Pure Chemicals America, Inc. designates this position as a safety-sensitive position based on the tasks and duties required of the employee holding the position and the company’s good faith belief that an employee’s current use of any drug could (a) impair or negatively affect the employee’s ability to perform the position, or (b) affect the employee’s and/or others’ safety and health, pursuant to A.R.S. §§ 23-493(9), 23-493.06(A).

Pay: $130,000.00 - $140,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance
• Work Location: In person