Water Systems Specialist

The Pennsylvania State University; Ferguson Township (PA); Hybrid; USD 81,000 - 122,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Competitive benefits package

Job summary

The Penn State Facilities Engineering Institute (PSFEI) is seeking a Water Systems Specialist (Advanced Professional) to advise clients on water and wastewater systems, regulatory compliance, and sustainability across Pennsylvania.

You will work with engineers and technical staff to evaluate systems, prepare reports, assist with design reviews, and support facility managers with water quality management and conservation initiatives. Some travel involved.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; 3+ years of relevant experience.
• Professional Engineering (PE) license preferred.
• Flexibility for travel within Pennsylvania and fieldwork as needed.

Responsibilities

• Conduct onsite evaluations of water and wastewater systems with detailed reports and actionable recommendations.
• Perform design/document reviews and assist clients with regulatory compliance.
• Advise clients on water quality management, conservation strategies, and water reuse initiatives.
• Investigate corrosion and piping system deficiencies related to water chemistry.
• Provide educational and training opportunities for facility personnel.

Skills

Water systems

Regulatory compliance

Project management

Fieldwork

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Job description

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Penn State Facilities Engineering Institute (psfei.psu.edu) is seeking a Water Systems Specialist (Advanced Professional) with experience in water and wastewater permitting, design, project management, and operation and maintenance guidance to join our team. In this role, you will support our mission of providing research- and knowledge-driven advisory services that help facility managers across the Commonwealth improve system performance, compliance, and sustainability.

Who We Are

The Penn State Facilities Engineering Institute (PSFEI) has provided facility engineering services since its founding in 1947. As part of the College of Engineering at Penn State University Park, PSFEI serves clients in all 67 counties of Pennsylvania and across the nation through facility engineering, education program, facility condition assessment, and energy management services. Through our continued growth, we have built a team of more than 40 engineers, technical specialists, programmers, and administrative staff located throughout the Commonwealth. Our team is committed to helping our clients optimize facility performance and long-term operational sustainability.

Your Role at PSFEI

As a Water Systems Specialist, you will work alongside a multidisciplinary team of engineers and technical professionals who apply analytical, research, and problem-solving expertise to evaluate water and wastewater systems critical to facility operations. Your recommendations will directly support public health, environmental stewardship of the Commonwealth’s waterways, regulatory compliance, and financial sustainability of the facilities we serve.

• Conducting onsite evaluations and troubleshooting of water and wastewater systems culminating in detailed written reports with actionable recommendations for system improvement.
• Performing design and document reviews and assisting clients with regulatory compliance.
• Advising clients on water quality management, conservation strategies, and water reuse initiatives.
• Investigating corrosion and piping system deficiencies related to water chemistry.
• Providing educational and training opportunities for facility personnel.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

Bachelor's Degree 3+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None

This position is a blend of office-based work with fieldwork throughout Pennsylvania. Travel is primarily day travel, with occasional overnight stays as needed.

Who Should Apply

You would be well suited to apply for this position if you are an early- to mid-level design engineer interested in transitioning from a traditional design and project management role to a research-oriented engineering advisory position within the Penn State system. Ideal candidates will be able to identify water system deficiencies and apply practical, research-informed solutions grounded in sound engineering principles and real-world experience. Successful candidates often bring experience from professional design firms, municipal water and sewer authorities, and state and federal regulatory agencies. The person in this role is expected to interact with a variety of audiences and demonstrate strong verbal, written, and presentation skills. Degrees in Civil, Environmental, or Chemical Engineering and Professional Engineering (PE) license preferred.

Other Requirements Worth Noting

• A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check are required.
• Flexible work arrangements, including hybrid or remote options, may be available depending on operational needs and job responsibilities.
• Questions related to flexible work arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $81,312.00 - $122,016.00. Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473. Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

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