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Desalination Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Seven Seas Water Group

Seven Seas Water, which provides water treatment and desalination for governmental, hospitality and ... Skilled in use of computers, Microsoft Office and Programmable Logic Control programs * Ability to ...

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Desalination Engineer information

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$31K

$95.8K

$127.5K

How much do desalination engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for desalination engineer in the United States is $95,796.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,000.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the biggest problem with desalination?

Desalination engineers often identify energy consumption as the biggest challenge, as processes like reverse osmosis require significant power, increasing operational costs. Additionally, managing brine disposal and minimizing environmental impacts are critical concerns in the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Desalination Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Desalination Engineer, you need a strong background in chemical, mechanical, or environmental engineering, with expertise in water treatment processes and membrane technologies. Familiarity with tools such as process simulation software, CAD programs, and industry standards like ISO or ASTM is often essential, along with relevant certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) licensure. Strong problem-solving abilities, project management skills, and effective communication are key soft skills that help you collaborate across diverse teams and manage complex projects. These skills and qualifications enable Desalination Engineers to design, optimize, and maintain efficient water purification systems that are critical for sustainable water resource management.

What does a Desalination Engineer do?

A Desalination Engineer designs, develops, and maintains systems that remove salt and impurities from seawater or brackish water to produce fresh, potable water. They work with technologies such as reverse osmosis and thermal desalination to improve efficiency and sustainability. Their role includes system design, performance analysis, troubleshooting, and ensuring compliance with environmental and safety standards. Desalination Engineers often collaborate with scientists, researchers, and policymakers to advance water treatment solutions for communities and industries facing water scarcity.

How to become a desalination engineer?

To become a desalination engineer, typically a bachelor's degree in chemical, environmental, or mechanical engineering is required, often followed by specialized training or experience in water treatment and desalination technologies. Gaining knowledge of membrane processes, reverse osmosis, and related tools, along with relevant certifications, can enhance job prospects in this field.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-level positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and working in high-demand industries or companies with competitive compensation packages.

What does a typical day look like for a Desalination Engineer?

A typical day for a Desalination Engineer often involves monitoring plant operations, analyzing water quality data, and optimizing system performance to ensure reliable fresh water production. You may also collaborate with multidisciplinary teams—such as project managers, technicians, and environmental scientists—to develop process enhancements or troubleshoot operational issues. Field work, such as site inspections and overseeing equipment installations, is common, alongside office-based tasks like preparing reports and conducting feasibility studies. This variety makes the role dynamic and offers valuable hands-on and analytical experience in the pursuit of sustainable water solutions.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Senior roles requiring advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities tend to have the highest compensation levels.
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Desalination Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Desalination Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 1% As Needed, 1% Full Time, 4% Temporary, 85% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,796 per year, or $46.1 per hour.

Sr. Project Manager - Desalination

Mintex Technology

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description


Job Title :Design Task Leader / Senior Project Manager - Desalination
Anywhere in TX
 
Full-time Permanent
A leading engineering firm is seeking a Design Task Leader / Senior Project Manager to lead large-scale desalination and advanced water treatment projects across Texas. This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of one of the most significant water infrastructure programs in the country, supporting major coastal markets and long-term water supply initiatives.
This role is ideal for a senior-level engineering leader who excels in delivering complex infrastructure projects, leading multidisciplinary teams, and building strong client relationships. The selected candidate will play a key role in shaping high-impact projects while helping grow a rapidly expanding water and desalination practice.
Key Responsibilities
 
  • Lead full lifecycle delivery of large desalination and advanced treatment projects (seawater and brackish systems)
  • Oversee planning, design, procurement, construction support, and commissioning phases
  • Manage scope, schedule, budget, and overall project financial performance
  • Direct multidisciplinary teams across civil, mechanical, electrical, and environmental disciplines
  • Provide senior technical leadership on systems including reverse osmosis, pretreatment, post-treatment, and brine management
  • Maintain strong client relationships and ensure successful project execution
  • Mentor and develop engineering teams while driving quality and accountability

Qualifications
 
  • 15+ years of experience in water infrastructure, with strong desalination or advanced treatment exposure
  • Proven experience leading large, complex municipal or infrastructure projects
  • Strong technical knowledge of desalination systems (RO, pretreatment, post-treatment, etc.)
  • Demonstrated leadership in project delivery, client management, and team development
  • PE license required (or ability to obtain)

Why This Role
 
  • Work on a landmark, large-scale desalination program with long-term regional impact
  • High-visibility role with direct influence on project success and team leadership
  • Opportunity to shape future water infrastructure solutions in Texas and beyond