Section Engineer (Wastewater Process Engineer)

Distinguishing Features of Work
The Wastewater Process Engineer is responsible for performing advanced level professional engineering duties for the City of Wichita’s Wastewater Treatment Division, with emphasis on Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR) treatment processes at three treatment plants. The role involves optimizing, identifying and investigating problems, developing solutions for complex chemical and biological systems, reviewing wastewater process quality data, and participating in planning and pilot testing for water reuse projects, potentially leading to Direct Potable Reuse. The engineer works with considerable independence within a defined scope and may supervise lower‑level exempt and/or non‑exempt staff.

Examples of Work Performed

Ensures efficient and compliant operation of the BNR plants, conveyance systems, biosolids handling and disposal, and reduction of malodorous compounds by reviewing wastewater treatment processes and facility designs, SOPs, gathering data, analyzing new and existing systems, and directing improvement projects.

Evaluates process technologies, develops and directs testing from jar testing to pilot testing.

Identifies and investigates problems such as BNR process upsets, odors, and industrial discharges, and advises division staff on physical, biological, and chemical processes to maximize efficiency and meet permit requirements.

Monitors and analyzes operator reports, energy and chemical usage data, and lab data from on‑site and contracted labs, and establishes needs and plans for collecting additional data.

Conducts analyses of conveyance and influent pump station flow reports to characterize performance under normal and emergency conditions; advises on metering and instrumentation equipment needs and interacts with technology and operations.

Manages development and implementation of large‑scale planning and modeling efforts and complex engineering projects, emphasizing compliance and value engineering; serves as engineering liaison with other PW&U divisions, consultants, and outside agencies.

Consults with project managers and engineering design firms on selecting new treatment processes, methods, and means of implementation; oversees selection and management of engineering consultant contractors and coordinates work with stakeholders, government agencies, contractors, and consultants.

Analyzes new or proposed legislation or regulations to determine impact on operations or ability to achieve permit compliance.

Performs data control activities, proofreads and reviews process data reports to ensure accuracy, balances values, and makes necessary corrections or adjustments.

Serves as a resource to other staff, external stakeholders, vendors, and consultants regarding the City’s BNR treatment plant processes.

Completion of work assignments may require operation of a vehicle.

These examples are not intended to be all‑inclusive.

Other related duties may be assigned as needed.

Requirements of Work

Thorough knowledge of wastewater engineering and design, treatment processes, flow monitoring, and their application to a wide variety of treatment facility projects.

Thorough knowledge of BNR processes with expertise in process optimization and troubleshooting.

Considerable knowledge of project development, scheduling, and management.

Understanding of the principles and practices of public administration, legislative and local government operation, budget management, and contract management.

Understanding of key performance indicators and continuous improvement drivers related to wastewater treatment.

Understanding of risk management, facility resilience, and business continuity concepts.

Knowledge of data processing, data entry and retrieval techniques, and proficiency with engineering computer software applications, wastewater treatment simulation models, and Water Information Management Systems (WIMS).

Understanding of state and federal laws and regulations pertaining to wastewater permits and environmental protection, including the Clean Water Act and the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES).

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