Process Engineer, Solids and Energy

About the Role

Brown and Caldwell is seeking a Solids Process Engineer to join our Solids and Energy Practice, supporting biosolids projects in the DC Metro area. This role will assist local and regional teams in biosolids planning, design, and construction projects. There's potential to support specialized research projects and practice initiatives beyond the Mid-Atlantic region. The position is designed to cultivate the next generation of BC solids practitioners who can meet internal project needs and lead client engagements.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in collecting and analyzing data, creating basic process models and drawings under supervision.
• Provide support in evaluating current processes and suggesting optimizations.
• Prepare concise and accurate process engineering related tasks/project information.
• Under direction of senior staff, perform simple tasks for larger projects.
• Observe and learn troubleshooting techniques, and assist in documenting issues.
• Understand the requirements of Quality Management Plans (QMPs) for related projects.
• Participate in brainstorming sessions as a learning opportunity.
• Assist in setting up experiments, collecting data, and evaluating technologies.
• Support chemical/physical/biological testing and analysis, and document results.
• Proactively identify and communicate observed quality issues.
• Learn about and help to identify project risks.
• Work productively in a team and individually under close supervision from more senior staff.
• Learn about and support innovative solutions.
• Adapt and execute various additional assignments based on evolving needs.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Foundational wastewater and solids process engineering and analytical skills.
• Strong communication skills.
• Basic understanding of engineering principles.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Understanding of BC standards.
• Basic skills in technical approaches and solutions.
• Positive, can-do attitude.
• Flexibility and self-motivation.
• Desire to grow both technical and soft skills.

Qualifications

• A bachelor's degree in environmental, civil, chemical, mechanical, or biological engineering degree or equivalent experience.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Direct research experience with utilities in the DC Metro area.
• General knowledge of wastewater treatment processes.
• Knowledge of advanced anaerobic digestion technologies.
• General knowledge of typical solids process treatment trains.
• Experience regularly presenting work and technical topics in front of colleagues and industry professionals.
• Independent problem-solving skills and ability to tackle complex problems.

Preferred Education

• Doctoral degree in environmental, chemical, mechanical, or civil engineering.