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Entry Level Wastewater Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Entry Level Wastewater Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$35.3K

$75.3K

$124.2K

How much do entry level wastewater engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level wastewater engineer in Michigan is $75,289.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,700.00 and $90,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical projects and responsibilities for an entry level wastewater engineer during their first year on the job?

As an entry level wastewater engineer, you can expect to assist with a variety of tasks such as preparing engineering reports, conducting site visits, collecting and analyzing water samples, and supporting the design of treatment systems. You’ll often work closely with senior engineers to learn about regulatory requirements, permitting processes, and best practices in system maintenance. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including environmental scientists, CAD technicians, and project managers—is common, providing valuable exposure to different aspects of project delivery. Over time, you’ll gradually take on more responsibility and may have opportunities to contribute to client meetings or help manage small projects.

What is the difference between Entry Level Wastewater Engineer vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectEntry Level Wastewater EngineerWater Treatment Plant Operator
CredentialsBachelor's in Environmental or Civil Engineering, Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent, relevant state certifications or licenses
Work EnvironmentDesign, planning, and analysis in engineering offices or field sitesOperate and monitor water treatment equipment at treatment plants
Industry UsageEngineering firms, municipal wastewater departmentsMunicipal water treatment facilities, private water companies

While both roles focus on water quality, an Entry Level Wastewater Engineer primarily handles design and planning tasks, requiring an engineering degree and certification. In contrast, a Water Treatment Plant Operator manages daily operations at treatment facilities, often with a high school diploma and specialized licenses. Both roles are essential in water management but differ in responsibilities and required qualifications.

What does an entry level wastewater engineer do?

An entry level wastewater engineer assists in designing, analyzing, and maintaining wastewater treatment systems and infrastructure. Their work often involves helping senior engineers with the planning and implementation of processes that remove contaminants from water, preparing technical reports, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. They may also collect and analyze water or soil samples, conduct site inspections, and use computer-aided design (CAD) software to develop project plans. This role provides foundational experience in environmental and civil engineering while supporting the protection of public health and the environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level wastewater engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Wastewater Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or environmental engineering, typically supported by a bachelor's degree and an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification. Familiarity with AutoCAD, GIS software, hydraulic modeling tools, and regulatory compliance systems is highly valuable. Attention to detail, strong analytical thinking, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in this role. These abilities ensure accurate project design, regulatory adherence, and successful collaboration in delivering safe and efficient wastewater solutions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Wastewater Engineer jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Wastewater Engineer jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Entry Level Wastewater Engineer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Entry Level Wastewater Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Wastewater Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,289 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Water/Wastewater Engineer - Entry Level (Hybrid)

Barr

Ann Arbor, MI • Hybrid

$73K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

The role - what you'll do

Barr is seeking a water/wastewater engineer to join our innovative and collaborative team. In this hybrid role, you will work as part of multidisciplinary project teams providing industrial and municipal clients with design engineering and related technical expertise for water and wastewater systems and treatment facilities. Industrial clients include those in the mining, fuels and/or natural gas, power generation, and manufacturing industries.

The ideal candidate for this position is intrinsically motivated and emphasizes client service. They enjoy working independently and as part of a team, using their expertise and technical ability for a variety of projects. They are flexible in working with their project teams and are willing to occasionally modify schedules to meet project deadlines and/or client needs. This person is also relationship-focused, as the role involves serving both internal and external clients.

Your impact - key responsibilities

  • Multidisciplinary collaboration: contribute to cross-functional project teams delivering engineering solutions for municipal and industrial clients, including those in mining, energy, and manufacturing sectors.

  • Design and analysis: perform technical analyses such as mass balances, process calculations, and cost estimates; select equipment; and develop detailed designs, drawings, and specifications for treatment systems and infrastructure.

  • Field sampling and bench and pilot testing: perform field sampling for clients and bench and pilot testing in Barr's laboratory or at client sites to evaluate and fine-tune water and wastewater treatment design bases.

  • Project support and execution: prepare engineering drawings, technical specifications, and design documentation. Contribute to project reports and help develop cost estimates for engineering solutions.

  • Technical reporting and compliance: prepare technical reports to evaluate alternatives and help ensure all designs meet environmental standards and regulatory compliance.

  • Field support: participate in site visits and short-term travel assignments to support project delivery and client engagement.

About the opportunity

  • Work location: a hybrid work arrangement may be considered for this position. A hybrid work arrangement refers to splitting time worked between a Barr office and a home office. This position can be based out of our Minneapolis, Minnesota or Ann Arbor, Michigan office with the expectation to visit the Barr office location at least one day per month.

  • Travel expectation: up to 25% with an average of 1-3 days of continuous job site presence.

  • Work environment: ability to work in locations that feature rough terrain typical of construction sites with limited accessibility, moving machinery, and other conditions typical of industrial facilities. Candidates must be able to perform job duties with or without reasonable accommodation.

  • Physical requirements for the role may include lifting or moving field testing equipment. Candidates must be able to perform job duties with or without reasonable accommodation.

About you - required core competencies

  • Education: bachelor's degree in civil, environmental, biosystems, or chemical engineering from an accredited university.

  • Experience: 0-2 years of relevant experience.

  • Willingness and ability to regularly travel.

  • Software: familiarity with Microsoft Office software.

  • Driver's license: possession of a current, valid driver's license and acceptable driving record.

  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship by Barr, now or in the future.

Compensation: anticipated range of $73,000-$85,000 annually. Compensation will vary based on relevant experience, education, skill level, and other compensable factors. Employees in this position may also be eligible for a discretionary cash bonus based on team and individual performance. This position is classified as Exempt (salaried) under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

#LI-Hybrid #Handshake

Benefits - what we offer

We are committed to providing an employee experience that attracts and retains top talent. That's why we offer a competitive package of employee benefits - including some unique offerings not found at other companies. At Barr, we also believe that learning doesn't stop when you get your degree, which is why we provide coaching, mentoring, and support for ongoing educational opportunities to foster professional development at every stage of your career.

  • Competitive, affordable insurance plans: Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, accidental death insurance, and flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care

  • Retirement benefits: 401(k) retirement savings plan with company contribution and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with company contribution in Barr stock

  • Profit distribution: Barr has a "no retained earnings" model and distributes all profit to our employees through our annual bonus distribution plan, ESOP, and dividends to shareholders

  • Professional development benefits: Annual time and expense allowances, mentorship program, and many internal training opportunities

  • Work/life balance: Paid time off, holidays, overtime for non-exempt/hourly staff, and compensatory time for exempt/salaried staff (time off or pay for extra time worked), paid family leave

  • Wellness focus: Ergonomic analysis and equipment, Personal Protective Equipment allowance, wellbeing-focused educational opportunities

Please note that benefits eligibility is determined and may change based on part-time, reduced-time, or full-time status.

About us - why choose Barr

At Barr, you'll join a community of engineers, scientists, and professionals who will help you achieve your ambitions and build a meaningful, rewarding career. You'll serve as a trusted advisor to clients who value Barr's tailored solutions and commitment to exceptional service.

As part of our employee-owned firm, you'll contribute to a culture of commitment and camaraderie where staff can thrive as professionals. We value diverse perspectives and experiences and believe an inclusive workplace is critical to our success.

To learn more about Barr's culture and values, visit: https://www.barr.com/Careers/Our-culture

Open positions at Barr Engineering Co. do not have application deadlines. Barr Engineering Co. is an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.