Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants .
This position is funded for 3 year(s); continuation past 3 year(s) will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Penn State Facilities Engineering Institute (psfei.psu.edu) is seeking a Water Systems Specialist (Advanced Professional) with experience in water and wastewater permitting, design, project management, and operation and maintenance guidance to join our team. In this role, you will support our mission of providing research- and knowledge-driven advisory services that help facility managers across the Commonwealth improve system performance, compliance, and sustainability.
Who We Are
The Penn State Facilities Engineering Institute (PSFEI) has provided facility engineering services since its founding in 1947. As part of the College of Engineering at Penn State University Park, PSFEI serves clients in all 67 counties of Pennsylvania and across the nation through facility engineering, education program, facility condition assessment, and energy management services. Through our continued growth, we have built a team of more than 40 engineers, technical specialists, programmers, and administrative staff located throughout the Commonwealth. Our team is committed to helping our clients optimize facility performance and long-term operational sustainability.
Your Role at PSFEI
As a Water Systems Specialist, you will work alongside a multidisciplinary team of engineers and technical professionals who apply analytical, research, and problem-solving expertise to evaluate water and wastewater systems critical to facility operations. Your recommendations will directly support public health, environmental stewardship of the Commonwealth’s waterways, regulatory compliance, and financial sustainability of the facilities we serve.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Conducting onsite evaluations and troubleshooting of water and wastewater systems culminating in detailed written reports with actionable recommendations for system improvement.
Performing design and document reviews and assisting clients with regulatory compliance.
Advising clients on water quality management, conservation strategies, and water reuse initiatives.
Investigating corrosion and piping system deficiencies related to water chemistry.
Providing educational and training opportunities for facility personnel.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree
3+ years of relevant experience
Required Certifications:
None
This position is a blend of office-based work with fieldwork throughout Pennsylvania. Travel is primarily day travel, with occasional overnight stays as needed.
Who Should Apply
You would be well suited to apply for this position if you are an early- to mid-level design engineer interested in transitioning from a traditional design and project management role to a research-oriented engineering advisory position within the Penn State system. Ideal candidates will be able to identify water system deficiencies and apply practical, research-informed solutions grounded in sound engineering principles and real-world experience.
Successful candidates often bring experience from professional design firms, municipal water and sewer authorities, and state and federal regulatory agencies. The person in this role is expected to interact with a variety of audiences and demonstrate strong verbal, written, and presentation skills.
Degrees in Civil, Environmental, or Chemical Engineering and Professional Engineering (PE) license preferred.
Other Requirements Worth Noting
A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check are required.
Flexible work arrangements, including hybrid or remote options, may be available depending on operational needs and job responsibilities. Questions related to flexible work arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.
How to Apply
For full consideration, please submit both a resume and cover letter with your application.
This is a limited-term appointment funded for three years from the date of hire with an excellent possibility of refunding.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.
Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $81,312.00 - $122,016.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page .
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here .
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.
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