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Water Systems Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

Your Role at PSFEI As a Water Systems Specialist, you will work alongside a multidisciplinary team ... Performing design and document reviews and assisting clients with regulatory compliance. * Advising ...

TSMC

Water Section Design Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

As a Water Section Design Engineer, you will demonstrate a strong sense of reliability and ... Our systems are designed to run 24 hours a day, 365 days a year without factory interruption ...

TSMC

Water Section Design Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

As a Water Section Design Engineer, you will demonstrate a strong sense of reliability and ... Our systems are designed to run 24 hours a day, 365 days a year without factory interruption ...

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Water Systems Design information

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$49.5K

$118.6K

$173.5K

How much do water systems design jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for water systems design in the United States is $118,589.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $137,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Water Systems Design, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Water Systems Design often encounter challenges such as integrating new technologies with existing infrastructure, meeting strict regulatory requirements, and managing projects within tight budgets and timelines. Effective communication with multidisciplinary teams—including civil engineers, contractors, and environmental specialists—is crucial to overcoming these hurdles. Staying current with evolving regulations and advancements in water treatment technologies, as well as developing strong project management skills, can help address these challenges and contribute to successful project outcomes.

What kind of engineer designs water systems?

A water systems design engineer specializes in creating and planning water distribution, treatment, and plumbing systems. They often have backgrounds in civil, environmental, or mechanical engineering and use tools like CAD software to develop system layouts. Certification such as Professional Engineer (PE) licensure can also be required or preferred.

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

To thrive as a Water Systems Design Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or environmental engineering, fluid dynamics, and water resource management, usually supported by an engineering degree and professional licensure (such as PE). Familiarity with technical tools like AutoCAD, hydraulic modeling software (e.g., EPANET, WaterCAD), and GIS systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and clients. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and sustainable design of water systems that meet regulatory standards and community needs.

What is a water designer?

A water designer is a professional who plans and develops water systems, including plumbing, irrigation, and water supply networks, often using design software like AutoCAD. They ensure systems meet safety, efficiency, and regulatory standards, typically working in engineering or consulting firms. Strong knowledge of hydraulics, codes, and environmental considerations is essential for this role.

What is the difference between Water Systems Design vs Plumbing Engineer?

AspectWater Systems DesignPlumbing Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in water systemsEngineering degree, plumbing licenses
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, project sitesConstruction sites, design offices
Industry UsageDesigning water distribution, treatment systemsInstalling and maintaining plumbing systems
Common Search/ComparisonFocus on system design, planningFocus on installation, repair

Water Systems Design involves creating plans for water distribution and treatment systems, focusing on planning and engineering. Plumbing Engineers implement these designs, handling installation and maintenance of plumbing systems. While both roles require engineering knowledge, Water Systems Design emphasizes planning, whereas Plumbing Engineering centers on practical application and system upkeep.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

In the field of water systems design, senior engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles can reach annual salaries of $500,000 or more, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or specialized consulting firms. Such compensation often includes bonuses, profit sharing, or other incentives beyond base salary. Typically, these roles require a strong background in civil or environmental engineering, project management skills, and a track record of large-scale project delivery.

What is water systems design?

Water systems design refers to the planning, engineering, and implementation of infrastructure and technologies that manage the supply, distribution, treatment, and disposal of water. Professionals in this field design systems for potable water, wastewater, stormwater, and sometimes irrigation, ensuring safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance. This work often involves hydraulic modeling, selecting appropriate materials, and integrating sustainable practices to meet the needs of communities or industries. Water systems designers collaborate with civil engineers, architects, and environmental specialists to develop solutions tailored to specific projects.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and relevant certifications. Leadership roles like engineering managers or principal engineers in high-demand industries can also reach or exceed this salary level.
More about Water Systems Design jobs
What job categories do people searching Water Systems Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Water Systems Design jobs are:
Water Systems Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Systems Design job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,589 per year, or $57 per hour.
Water Systems Engineer

Water Systems Engineer

Knoxville Utilities Board

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$68K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Knoxville Utilities Board rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Salary: $68,400.00 - $121,100.00 Annually
Location : 4505 Middlebrook Pike Knoxville, TN
Job Type: Full-Time/Regular
Job Number: 01261
Department: Water Systems Engineering
Opening Date: 06/30/2026
Closing Date: 7/14/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Classification: Engineer
Work Hours: 40+ hours/week; M-F
About KUB: KUB is one of the largest public utilities in the country providing safe, reliable, and affordable electric, gas, water, wastewater, and fiber services to more than 520,000 customers in Knoxville and parts of seven surrounding counties. We are looking for employees who want to be a part of a mission-driven organization with strong values that support a skilled, diverse, and inclusive workforce.
About the Role: Join KUB's Water Systems Engineering team and play a key role in delivering critical water and wastewater infrastructure projects that support the reliability, safety, and sustainability of essential utility services. This position leads high-impact capital improvement and maintenance projects across treatment facilities, pump stations, collection and distribution systems, and pipeline infrastructure.
The successful candidate will apply engineering, project management, and construction management expertise to oversee projects from concept through commissioning, including planning, design review, procurement, contract administration, construction oversight, budget and schedule management, and stakeholder coordination. Working with multidisciplinary teams, consultants, contractors, and operations personnel, this role drives innovative solutions that improve system performance, regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and long-term asset reliability.
This is an opportunity to make a lasting impact on the community while managing complex infrastructure projects and helping shape the future of KUB's water and wastewater systems.
Qualifications
Physical Requirements:
Works primarily in an office setting, but field visits and field activities may be required. These field visits may include: emergency response activities and support beyond normal business hours, heavy lifting or strenuous work and mobility over rough terrain. Requires bending, stooping, lifting, and working in awkward and strenuous positions at times. Occasionally requires above normal mental and visual alertness. Physical demands for a specific position within this classification may vary and/or exceed those demands described above.
Minimum Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering in Civil, Biosystems, Mechanical, or related engineering field from a four-year ABET-accredited college or university
  • One (1) to three (3) years of demonstrated experience in related field
  • Strong analytical and time management skills
  • Strong written and oral communication, interpersonal, and team skills
  • Ability to work independently on projects in a timely manner and direct the work of others
  • Valid driver's license

Please note that due to job responsibilities, KUB does not provide immigration sponsorship for and/or based on this position.
Preferred Requirements:
  • Four or more (4+) years of experience in planning, design, project management, operations, and construction of water distribution systems, wastewater collection systems, treatment plants, and remote facilities
  • Professional Engineer (PE) licensure or ability to obtain licensure in Tennessee within one year
  • Advanced degree (MS or MBA)
  • Proven ability to analyze system performance data, recommend capital or operational improvements, and provide technical support to operations and maintenance teams
  • Strong knowledge of engineering principles, standards, and practices related to water and wastewater treatment, distribution, and collection systems
  • Proficient in Civil 3D, ArcGIS Pro, and GIS, with experience in developing engineering specifications, cost estimates, and managing procurement processes

Selection Process
About the Selection Process:
Phase 1 - Apply online at www.kub.org
Phase 2 - Experience, training, and education evaluation
Phase 3 - Interview with department representatives
Phase 4 - Written, performance, and behavioral exercises
Phase 5 - Background Investigation
Phase 6 - Physical assessment and/or drug screen*
*KUB is part of the Tennessee Drug Free Workplace Program
If special accommodations are needed at any phase of the selection process, please notify Human Resources in advance.
Knoxville Utilities Board is an Equal Opportunity Employer
  • Generous health benefits with low premiums and deductibles
  • Benefits start day 1
  • Competitive 401(k) contribution and match
  • PTO available for use after your first payday
  • 11 paid holidays
  • Free financial advising
  • Educational assistance & professional development opportunities
  • Employee physical & mental wellness programs

01
If you would like to attach a resume to your application, please make sure it is attached in the "Attachments" section.
  • Yes; I have attached my resume to my application.
  • No; I'm not attaching a resume to my application.

02
If you answered "Career/Job Fair," Employee Referral," or "Other" to the 'how did you first hear about this opportunity' question, please include details here. If 'no,' please type "N/A" in the text box.
03
Which statement below best describes the highest level of education you have completed?
  • High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (GED)
  • Associate degree
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Master's degree
  • Professional degree
  • Doctorate degree

04
Describe your reasons for leaving your jobs within the past seven years.
05
Which discipline of capital project management best aligns with your interests?
  • Water distribution and wastewater collection system
  • Treatment facilities and remote sites

Required Question

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