JOB SUMMARY:
The Water Treatment and Utilities Engineer is responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of the mills closed loop water treatment plant and all related utility systems (steam, compressed air, water, HVAC, etc.). This role ensures environmental compliance, supports mill operations, and drives process optimization and reliability improvements.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Water Treatment Operations:
- Oversee daily operation of the mills closed loop water treatment systems including primary, secondary, and tertiary treatment processes.
- Ensure compliance with all environmental regulations (local, state, federal, EPA, NPDES).
- Monitor and report data and liaise with environmental agencies as needed.
- Manage chemical dosing systems, sludge handling, dewatering operations, and waste hauling.
Utility Systems Management:
- Ensure continuous and efficient operation of utility systems including boilers, chillers, cooling towers, compressed air, and water systems.
- Support maintenance planning and reliability initiatives for all utility assets.
Engineering and Continuous Improvement:
- Lead or support capital projects related to water treatment and utilities.
- Analyze system performance data to identify and implement process improvements.
- Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), maintenance plans, and training materials.
Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE):
- Promote a culture of safety and environmental stewardship.
- Conduct risk assessments and ensure safety compliance within water treatment and utility areas.
- Participate in incident investigations and implement corrective actions.
Team Collaboration and Leadership:
- Work closely with operations, maintenance, and environmental teams.
- Provide technical guidance on water treatment and utilities to our operations teammates.
- Assist in budgeting, reporting, and strategic planning activities.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelors Degree in Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
- Minimum 35 years in a heavy industrial environment, preferably in the pulp and paper industry or wastewater treatment.
- Experience with NPDES permitting and environmental compliance.
- Familiarity with utility system operations and process control systems (SCADA, DCS).
Certifications (preferred):
- State Wastewater Operator License (Class B or higher preferred).
- Boiler Operator Certification (optional but beneficial).
SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES:
- Strong understanding of biological and chemical wastewater treatment processes.
- Knowledge of utility systems (steam, air, water, etc.) and energy management.
- Proficient in process troubleshooting and data analysis.
- Effective communicator with leadership and project management skills.
- Proficient with MS Office and engineering software tools.
- Experience in the papermaking process is a bonus.
Keywords: utilities engineer, boiler, boilers, wastewater, wastewater treatment, process engineer, utilities, water treatment, environmental, environmental compliance, NPDES, steam, steam plant, steam boilers, compressed air, utility systems, paper mill, pulp mill, containerboard, linerboard, liner, kraft, kraft paper, corrugated medium, medium paper, fluff pulp
Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment. Smurfit Westrock is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to create and maintain a diverse workforce where everyone feels valued, respected, and included. Smurfit Westrock does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law.Want to find more Construction opportunities?
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