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Drinking Water Process Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kennedy Jenks is seeking a Drinking Water Process Engineer to join our team in California and contribute to projects focused on drinking water treatment, water reuse, and advanced water purification.

Kennedy Jenks is seeking a Drinking Water Process Engineer to join our team in California and contribute to projects focused on drinking water treatment, water reuse, and advanced water purification.

Kennedy Jenks is seeking a Drinking Water Process Engineer to join our team in California and contribute to projects focused on drinking water treatment, water reuse, and advanced water purification.

Drinking Water Process Engineer

Ventura, CA · Hybrid

$115K - $210K/yr

Kennedy Jenks is seeking a Drinking Water Process Engineer to join our team in California and contribute to projects focused on drinking water treatment, water reuse, and advanced water purification.

Kennedy Jenks is seeking a Drinking Water Process Engineer to join our team in California and contribute to projects focused on drinking water treatment, water reuse, and advanced water purification.

Kennedy Jenks is seeking a Drinking Water Process Engineer to join our team in California and contribute to projects focused on drinking water treatment, water reuse, and advanced water purification.

Kennedy Jenks is seeking a Drinking Water Process Engineer to join our team in California and contribute to projects focused on drinking water treatment, water reuse, and advanced water purification.

Drinking Water Process Engineer

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

$115K - $210K/yr

Kennedy Jenks is seeking a Drinking Water Process Engineer to join our team in California and contribute to projects focused on drinking water treatment, water reuse, and advanced water purification.

Kennedy Jenks is seeking a Drinking Water Process Engineer to join our team in California and contribute to projects focused on drinking water treatment, water reuse, and advanced water purification.

Drinking Water Process Engineer

Temecula, CA · On-site

$115K - $210K/yr

Kennedy Jenks is seeking a Drinking Water Process Engineer to join our team in California and contribute to projects focused on drinking water treatment, water reuse, and advanced water purification.

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Drinking Water Process Engineer information

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$49.5K

$92K

$142.5K

How much do drinking water process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for drinking water process engineer in the United States is $92,018.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,500.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges Drinking Water Process Engineers face when collaborating with multidisciplinary teams?

Drinking Water Process Engineers often work alongside civil engineers, environmental scientists, and operations staff to design and maintain water treatment systems. A common challenge is ensuring clear communication across disciplines, as each team member may have different technical priorities and terminology. Additionally, balancing regulatory compliance, cost constraints, and sustainability goals can require frequent negotiation and creative problem-solving. Developing strong interpersonal and project management skills is essential for successful collaboration in this role.

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 certifications, or leadership roles. High-level positions often require advanced technical skills, management responsibilities, and working in industries with high compensation standards.

What is the difference between Drinking Water Process Engineer vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectDrinking Water Process EngineerWater Treatment Plant Operator
CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental engineering or related field; certifications may include CWE or WQ certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; operator certifications often required
Work EnvironmentDesign, analyze, and optimize water treatment processes; office and lab settingsOperate and monitor water treatment equipment on-site at treatment plants
Employer & IndustryConsulting firms, government agencies, water utilitiesMunicipal water treatment facilities, private water companies

While both roles focus on water quality, the Drinking Water Process Engineer primarily designs and improves treatment systems, whereas the Water Treatment Plant Operator manages daily operations on-site. Both roles are essential for ensuring safe drinking water but differ in responsibilities, education, and work environment.

How much is the salary of a Process Engineer?

The salary of a Drinking Water Process Engineer typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

What does a water Process Engineer do?

A water process engineer designs, develops, and optimizes systems for treating and distributing drinking water. They analyze water quality, select appropriate treatment methods, and ensure compliance with safety standards, often using tools like process simulation software. Their work supports safe, efficient water supply operations and may involve field testing and process monitoring.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drinking Water Process Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drinking Water Process Engineer, you need a strong background in environmental or civil engineering, water treatment processes, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and, often, Professional Engineer (PE) licensure. Familiarity with water quality modeling software, SCADA systems, and industry standards such as EPA regulations is essential. Strong problem-solving, project management, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant delivery of clean drinking water to communities.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or certain software engineering roles can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

What does a Drinking Water Process Engineer do?

A Drinking Water Process Engineer designs, develops, and manages systems and processes to ensure the safe and efficient treatment of drinking water. They work to remove contaminants, optimize water quality, and comply with regulatory standards. Their responsibilities often include designing treatment plants, selecting appropriate technologies, monitoring system performance, and troubleshooting operational challenges. These engineers also collaborate with other professionals to ensure that drinking water meets health and safety requirements for communities.
More about Drinking Water Process Engineer jobs
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What job categories do people searching Drinking Water Process Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Drinking Water Process Engineer jobs are:
Drinking Water Process Engineer

$125K - $175K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Donohue is seeking an experienced Drinking Water Process Engineer to provide technical guidance and process leadership on municipal drinking water projects located throughout the Midwest. In this position you will be an integral member of project teams that create detailed facility and master plans, designs, plans and specifications, and estimates for treatment plants, tanks, pump/booster stations, and other water storage and conveyance system infrastructure. You will work closely with our clients and Donohue project team members and serve as a technical resource.

Other responsibilities include project management, involvement in drinking water marketing pursuits, proposal writing, client interviews, staying abreast of regulatory issues impacting the industry, and active participation in AWWA.

Desired Qualifications:

  • Masters degree in Chemical, Civil or Environmental Engineering
  • Minimum 8 years experience with municipal water treatment systems
  • Professional Engineer registration
  • Strong technical background and experience in water treatment, water quality, and regulatory compliance
  • Positive team- and client-focused attitude directed towards delivering quality work on time and within budget
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Leadership and mentoring skills
  • Active professional organization participation

Requirements:

  • Masters degree in Chemical, Civil or Environmental Engineering
  • Minimum 8 years experience with municipal water treatment systems
  • Professional Engineer registration

An employee-owned firm, Donohue & Associates was established in 1997 and since then has expanded to over 140 employees in several offices across the Midwest. Engineering News Record ranks Donohue a Top 20 Wastewater Treatment Plant Design Firm and our innovative design teams have received over 45 engineering excellence awards. Donohue offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision insurance, 401(k) with company contribution, paid-time off and company holidays, flexible work schedules, discretionary annual bonuses, and an industry-unique monthly profit-sharing plan. The anticipated salary range for this position is $125,000 $175,000 based on education, experience, qualifications and location.

Donohue is an Equal Opportunity Employer.