Description

A water/wastewater engineer is an environmental engineer or scientist who works to help ensure the safety of public (and even sometimes private) water systems. This engineer works in treatment plants to ensure that fresh water and used water are both treated properly and systematically. They also typically monitor local soil and groundwater to ensure these environmental factors reflect the monitoring and output recorded by water treatment facilities.Water/wastewater engineers spends most of their typical workday in a water treatment plant. They ensure that the plant efficiently and effectively collects wastewater from all sources, usually through monitoring sewer systems. The engineer then determines and works to ensure that sufficient systems are in place and working properly to treat the water. The engineer then helps determine whether the water must be returned to groundwater in the environment or if it can be made potable and returned to the general water supply. Additionally, water/wastewater engineers monitor water outputs and also make frequent trips into the field to monitor natural water sources, soil, and groundwater for pollutants to ensure the water returned from the plant won't be harmful to the environment.To work in this position, a person must have at least a bachelor's degree in environmental engineering and a strong background in chemistry (and, sometimes, mechanical engineering as well). The engineer should expect some sort of background check as well. Typically employees in this job work during regular business hours, but they may be needed for on-call work in the event of emergency.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Water/Wastewater Engineer with 0-3 years of experience in Canada, your main responsibilities include:

  • Designing and analyzing water and wastewater treatment systems to meet regulatory standards and client requirements. This involves utilizing engineering principles and software tools to develop efficient and sustainable treatment solutions.
  • Conducting field investigations and collecting data for water and wastewater infrastructure projects. This includes site visits, sampling, and monitoring to assess existing conditions and support design and construction activities.
  • Assisting senior engineers in preparing technical reports, drawings, and specifications for water and wastewater projects. This involves contributing to project documentation and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure successful project delivery.
  • Participating in the commissioning and operation of water and wastewater treatment facilities.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Water/Wastewater Engineer, the following qualifications are required:

  • In-depth knowledge of water and wastewater treatment processes, including design, operation, and maintenance, to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and environmental protection.
  • Proficiency in using specialized software and tools for hydraulic modeling, water quality analysis, and system optimization, enabling effective planning and problem-solving.
  • Strong project management skills to oversee the design and implementation of water/wastewater projects, including budgeting, scheduling, and resource allocation.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with stakeholders, including clients, contractors, and regulatory agencies, to ensure successful project execution and client satisfaction.

Essential Skills For Water/Wastewater Engineer

1

Waste Management

2

Environmental Policy

3

Water Resources Systems Planning & Management

4

Public Affairs

Skills That Affect Water/Wastewater Engineer Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

Environmental Awareness

6%

Career Prospects

The role of a Water/Wastewater Engineer in Canada with 0-3 years of experience is crucial for the efficient management of water resources. For professionals looking for alternative roles, here are four options to consider:

  • Environmental Consultant: A position focused on assessing environmental impacts and developing strategies for sustainable water management.
  • Project Engineer: A role involving the planning, design, and execution of water/wastewater infrastructure projects.
  • Water Quality Specialist: A position dedicated to monitoring and enhancing the quality of water resources, including conducting tests and implementing corrective measures.
  • Regulatory Compliance Officer: A role focused on ensuring adherence to water/wastewater regulations and standards, including permit applications and compliance reporting.

How to Learn

According to Google's latest data, the water/wastewater engineering role in Canada is expected to experience significant growth in the market. Over the next 10 years, this job role is projected to steadily increase in demand. The expanding population, increasing industrial activities, and growing focus on sustainability and environmental regulations are driving the need for water and wastewater infrastructure development and maintenance. As a result, there will be a substantial number of employment opportunities available in the future for water/wastewater engineers in Canada. Stay tuned for more detailed information from our sources.