Design Engineer

Job Description

Apply now

Job Title: Design Engineer

Posting Start Date: 11/12/26

Job Description:

Job Information

Salary Range: $80,500 - $94,500

The base salary range represents a good faith salary range for this position. This position is eligible for annual incentive pay and has the opportunity for continued salary growth. If you are hired at American Water your base salary compensation will be determined based on factors such as market, geography, skills, education and/or experience. At American Water, we are committed to pay equity. In addition to compensation, you will be offered a comprehensive benefits package including 401(k), Defined Contribution Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, medical, prescription, dental and vision coverage, plus disability, paid time off, life insurance, voluntary benefits, health and wellness programs and much more!

American Water is also proud to offer employees learning opportunities and work experiences to grow professionally!

Primary Role

The Design Engineer is responsible for executing detailed engineering design for capital investment projects addressing water and wastewater treatment, pumping, and conveyance facilities. Under the general guidance of senior engineering staff, the role includes interpreting data, understanding end user requirements, preparing calculations and design documents, assisting with the determination of permitting requirements and preparation of permit application packages, and providing technical support during construction, commissioning, and initial operation. The Design Engineer coordinates with internal technical resources, external consulting firms, and other project team members to ensure timely completion of assigned tasks. Within the assigned area of expertise, the role includes supporting the development of technical standards, standard specifications, and approved product/vendor lists, all in support of overall operational excellence and engineering center of excellence initiatives within American Water.

Key Accountabilities

• Participate in evaluations and inspections of water and wastewater facilities to identify deficiencies and capital improvements necessary to reliably meet current and future service needs. Develop design solutions for assigned components of new facilities and expansion/renovation of existing facilities.
• Prepare calculations, drawings, technical specifications, permitting documents, and bidding documents associated with delivery of assigned capital investment projects. This includes performing design work directly in CAD software and coordinating drawing production with other engineering staff.
• Manage small projects or components of larger projects, coordinating with internal team members and third party consulting firms to ensure timely task completion. Anticipate and communicate potential implementation obstacles to senior engineering staff.
• Apply Company standards for capacity, performance, reliability, safety, and regulatory compliance; participate in quality control reviews of own work and the work of others as assigned.
• Provide technical support during construction, commissioning, and initial operation of assets, including review of submittals and responses to requests for information under the guidance of senior engineering staff.
• Develop proficiency in matters within assigned discipline, including technical design, maintenance, asset management, and operations.
• Support the development of Engineering Standards, specifications, and equipment manufacturer recommendations as directed by senior engineering staff and Engineering Directors.
• Participate in special assignments including technology research, professional development activities, and other matters of strategic interest to the Company.

Knowledge/Skills

• Demonstrated knowledge of engineering design theory and practice.
• Familiarity with water and wastewater treatment, pumping, and conveyance facilities, and with utility maintenance and operations.
• Working knowledge of hydraulics, process design fundamentals, and equipment selection for water and wastewater facilities.
• Familiarity with CAD drafting procedures and technical specification preparation.
• Knowledge of safety procedures and guidelines.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD is required. Experience with AutoCAD MEP, Civil 3D, Revit, or other BIM software is a plus.
• Sound judgment and developing business acumen.
• Effective quantitative and analytical skills; attention to detail.
• Effective verbal and written communications skills (e.g., report writing, listening, and presentation).
• Strong interpersonal skills (e.g., tact/diplomacy, team building, cooperation) and the ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary project team.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and priorities to meet project schedules.

Experience/Education

• Bachelor's Degree in civil or environmental engineering or a related field. Advanced degree preferred.
• EIT or 2+ years' experience in water and/or wastewater engineering design and permitting.

Certifications & Licenses

• Valid Driver's License
• Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification preferred; EIT or Professional Engineer (PE) licensure expected to be pursued upon meeting eligibility requirements.

Travel Requirements

Periodic travel with overnight stays required; generally, less than 10% of total time is anticipated away from office

Work Environment

Primarily office with occasional local / overnight work in the field. Up to 2 days work from home permitted per week

Competencies

Plans & Aligns

Decision Making

Communicates Effectively

Builds Networks

Action Oriented

Apply now