Water Systems Specialist

The Pennsylvania State University; State College (Centre County); Hybrid; USD 76,700 - 115,100; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount for employees and their families

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage

Robust retirement plans

Substantial paid time off

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University is seeking a Water Systems Specialist to enhance water systems performance and compliance. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in relevant engineering fields and at least 3 years of experience in water and wastewater systems.

This role involves conducting onsite evaluations, advising on water quality strategies, and collaborating with various stakeholders. Flexible and hybrid work options are available. Join us in contributing to sustainable faculty management and public health improvement across Pennsylvania.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of relevant experience in water systems and project management.
• Demonstrated experience in water quality management and system evaluations.
• Professional Engineering (PE) license preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct onsite evaluations of water and wastewater systems.
• Perform design and document reviews.
• Advise clients on conservation strategies and water quality management.
• Investigate deficiencies related to water chemistry.

Skills

Water and wastewater permitting

Design

Project management

Operation and maintenance guidance

Strong verbal and written skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Civil, Environmental, or Chemical Engineering

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.

This position is funded for 3 years; continuation past 3 years will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Background Checks/Clearances

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $76,700.00 - $115,100.00.

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. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

Equal Employment Opportunity

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.