Water Systems Specialist

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

• 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.

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