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Entry Level Wastewater Engineer Jobs in Wisconsin

This entry-level opportunity is ideal for a recent engineering graduate who is passionate about ... Support projects involving municipal facilities, water and wastewater treatment plants, waterfront ...

Entry Level Wastewater Engineer information

See Wisconsin salary details

$40.9K

$87.2K

$143.8K

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

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level wastewater engineer in Wisconsin is $87,189.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,600.00 and $104,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Wastewater Engineer job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,189 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

Graduate Engineer Structural

Madison, WI • On-site

Socket.dev
Network Security • 1 - 10 employees

$62 - $100/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Overview

MSA is seeking a motivated and collaborative Graduate Engineer - Structural to join our growing structural team. This entry-level opportunity is ideal for a recent engineering graduate who is passionate about designing meaningful public infrastructure and community-focused facilities. In this role, you’ll contribute to projects that directly improve how communities live, work, and connect - including municipal buildings, water and wastewater facilities, waterfront structures, parks and recreation amenities, and storage/tank structures.

You’ll work alongside experienced structural engineers, architects, and multidisciplinary teams to help deliver innovative, sustainable, and practical solutions for municipalities and infrastructure clients in communities we live, work and play in. From concept development through construction, you’ll gain hands-on experience while building a strong technical foundation and growing your professional engineering career.

MSA Professional Services is 100% employee-owned, meaning every employee has a direct stake in the success of the company. This ownership mindset drives our collaborative culture, long-term thinking, and commitment to delivering high-quality work for the communities we serve.

Responsibilities Structural Design & Technical Support
  • Assist with the structural design and analysis of buildings and infrastructure-related structures.
  • Support projects involving municipal facilities, water and wastewater treatment plants, waterfront and marine structures, parks and recreation facilities, and tank/storage structures.
  • Perform engineering calculations and develop construction documents under the supervision of licensed engineers.
  • Utilize structural analysis and modeling software, BIM/CADD platforms, and other engineering tools to support project delivery.
  • Assist with preparing technical reports, specifications, and engineering studies.
Project & Field Support
  • Participate in field investigations, condition assessments, and construction observation activities.
  • Review shop drawings, respond to contractor questions, and document field conditions during construction.
  • Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams including civil, transportation, mechanical, electrical, and environmental professionals.
  • Attend project meetings and interact with clients, contractors, and regulatory agencies alongside senior staff.
Professional Development
  • Build foundational knowledge in structural engineering principles, industry standards, and municipal infrastructure design.
  • Develop technical communication, project coordination, and problem-solving skills through mentorship and hands-on project experience.
  • Pursue professional licensure goals, including obtaining Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification.
Qualifications Required
  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering with a structural emphasis or related engineering field from an ABET-accredited program.
  • Foundational understanding of structural engineering principles and building systems.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and familiarity with structural analysis, BIM, or CADD software.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment while managing multiple assignments.
Preferred
  • Internship or cooperative education experience in structural engineering or consulting.
  • Exposure to Revit, AutoCAD, RISA, RAM, STAAD, SAP2000, or similar structural software platforms.
  • Interest in municipal, industrial, and infrastructure-related building design.
  • Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or ability to obtain within six months of hire.
Ideal Candidate Profile
  • The ideal candidate is curious, detail-oriented, and excited to learn from experienced mentors while contributing to projects that serve the public good. They are energized by solving technical challenges, collaborating across disciplines, and seeing their work positively impact communities.
Additional Benefits

Eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • Compensation Range: $62k to $100k (commensurate with experience)
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) - As a 100% employee-owned company, eligible employees receive company shares at no cost

  • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Generous employer match that is immediately 100% vested

  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance for employees and eligible dependents

  • Paid Time Off - Minimum of 17 days in the first year

  • Paid Holidays - 8 holidays annually

  • Paid Parental Leave - 2 weeks for both parents, with additional paid leave for birth parents

  • Employer-Paid Insurance - Life, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage

  • Short-Term Incentive Program (STIP) - Annual performance-based bonus opportunity

Equal Opportunity Employer

MSA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

MSA is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact hr@msa-ps.com so we can assist you.

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