Charleston Water System Careers
Associate Plant Engineer (26-012)
Charleston Water System Careers, Hanahan, South Carolina, United States
We're a public water and wastewater utility serving the greater Charleston area. Our water and wastewater services protect public health and the environment, provide fire protection, and support our economy. We’re always looking to add talented, enthusiastic people to our team!
Applications Accepted through Sunday, January 18, 2026.
Salary Range:
78,457.60 ($37.72/hr.) – 121,617.60 ($58.47/hr.)
Grade:
111
Position Summary Under limited supervision prepares project designs, drawings, construction documents, cost estimates, material orders, reports, addenda and change orders, and planning recommendations as required for each project. Provides technical guidance to assist in the operations and maintenance of the wastewater and/or water treatment facilities. Lead statistical process control projects as necessary and coordinate operations and maintenance activities.
Essential Functions
Provide operations oversight as necessary, including training on technical, safety and regulatory subjects.
Develop capital projects for plant optimization, manpower efficiency, and regulatory compliance.
Develop and prioritize equipment upgrades and new purchases.
Routinely inspect and spot‑check all facilities to identify plant deficiencies and needs.
Supervise the Engineering Co‑Op as needed.
Perform studies and engineering investigations and provide cost estimates.
Provide project management for projects assigned to outside engineering consultants and assist Maintenance Dept. as necessary.
Coordinate with Engineering & Construction department engineers on completion of major capital projects.
Manage technical aspects of implementing net recurring projects. Coordinate with all stakeholders.
Evaluate work processes that are labor intensive and develop systems and procedures to automate and simplify work.
Assist operations department in identifying and developing improvement opportunities.
May be required to work during emergency (hazardous) conditions.
Regular attendance is required.
Job performance must conform to all CWS policies and procedures.
Specific knowledge of CWS Environmental Management System policies and procedures.
Physical Requirements, Activities, and Working Conditions
Routinely ascend/descend ladders, stairs and ramps up to thirteen stories at Plum Island and three stories at Hanahan; ability to work at elevated height levels as needed.
Ability to make visual observations of repairs, construction, equipment installation and field work in progress to ensure compliance.
Strong communication skills in writing, verbally and via two‑way radio.
Ability to move extensively over a large plant site with varied topography.
Ability to read and comprehend detailed technical reports.
Occasional lifting up to 50 lbs; objects >50 lbs require two‑person operation.
Must work in internal/external environmental conditions; subject to fumes, odors, dusts, gases, etc.; PPE required.
May need full‑face respirator and chemical exposure precautions.
Frequent sedentary work with extended sitting.
May be exposed to loud machinery; hearing protection required.
Must operate motor vehicles if required.
Must wear PPE as defined in the JSA.
Education and Experience
Bachelor's degree in engineering or related technical degree (ABET accredited) with four years of progressive engineering work.
Minimum 3 years of experience managing capital projects (strongly preferred).
Computer Skills Extensive experience with Windows‑based word processing and spreadsheet software (Word, Excel). Proficiency in complex, menu‑driven programs.
Licenses, Certifications, Registrations
Engineer‑in‑Training registration required where applicable.
"A" level Water Certification exam required within 24 months of hire.
"C" level Water Certification exam required within 12 months of hire.
Valid South Carolina Driver's License required.
Training Needs
OSHA and departmental safety training as required.
Skills‑Based Training.
ISO 14001 standards for department and company.
See Department Competency and Training Matrix for this position.
Qualifications
Strong leadership skills (preferred).
Good oral and written communication skills.
Experience in experimental design and statistical process control (preferred).
Dependable and conscientious work record.
Proven ability to present technical concepts to regulatory boards and non‑technical stakeholders.
Eligibility for Promotion Plant Engineer. Promotion opportunities vary and are not guaranteed.
Additional Information Safety Sensitive Position: Yes. Subject to substance abuse policy testing as per CWS Substance Abuse Policy and Procedures.
Language Skills Professional proficiency in reading, writing, and communicating complex information.
Safety and Environmental Responsibilities Job duties require specific knowledge and application of CWS Environmental Management System (EMS) policies, procedures, and instructions.
Mission, Vision & Core Values Our Mission: Support public health and protect the environment.
Our Vision: Achieve excellence and exceed customer expectations.
Core Values: Continuous pursuit of excellence, Customer Service, Open and honest communication, Accountability, Teamwork, Ethical behavior and integrity.
Charleston Water System is an at‑will, drug‑free, equal opportunity employer.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Applications Accepted through Sunday, January 18, 2026.
Salary Range:
78,457.60 ($37.72/hr.) – 121,617.60 ($58.47/hr.)
Grade:
111
Position Summary Under limited supervision prepares project designs, drawings, construction documents, cost estimates, material orders, reports, addenda and change orders, and planning recommendations as required for each project. Provides technical guidance to assist in the operations and maintenance of the wastewater and/or water treatment facilities. Lead statistical process control projects as necessary and coordinate operations and maintenance activities.
Essential Functions
Provide operations oversight as necessary, including training on technical, safety and regulatory subjects.
Develop capital projects for plant optimization, manpower efficiency, and regulatory compliance.
Develop and prioritize equipment upgrades and new purchases.
Routinely inspect and spot‑check all facilities to identify plant deficiencies and needs.
Supervise the Engineering Co‑Op as needed.
Perform studies and engineering investigations and provide cost estimates.
Provide project management for projects assigned to outside engineering consultants and assist Maintenance Dept. as necessary.
Coordinate with Engineering & Construction department engineers on completion of major capital projects.
Manage technical aspects of implementing net recurring projects. Coordinate with all stakeholders.
Evaluate work processes that are labor intensive and develop systems and procedures to automate and simplify work.
Assist operations department in identifying and developing improvement opportunities.
May be required to work during emergency (hazardous) conditions.
Regular attendance is required.
Job performance must conform to all CWS policies and procedures.
Specific knowledge of CWS Environmental Management System policies and procedures.
Physical Requirements, Activities, and Working Conditions
Routinely ascend/descend ladders, stairs and ramps up to thirteen stories at Plum Island and three stories at Hanahan; ability to work at elevated height levels as needed.
Ability to make visual observations of repairs, construction, equipment installation and field work in progress to ensure compliance.
Strong communication skills in writing, verbally and via two‑way radio.
Ability to move extensively over a large plant site with varied topography.
Ability to read and comprehend detailed technical reports.
Occasional lifting up to 50 lbs; objects >50 lbs require two‑person operation.
Must work in internal/external environmental conditions; subject to fumes, odors, dusts, gases, etc.; PPE required.
May need full‑face respirator and chemical exposure precautions.
Frequent sedentary work with extended sitting.
May be exposed to loud machinery; hearing protection required.
Must operate motor vehicles if required.
Must wear PPE as defined in the JSA.
Education and Experience
Bachelor's degree in engineering or related technical degree (ABET accredited) with four years of progressive engineering work.
Minimum 3 years of experience managing capital projects (strongly preferred).
Computer Skills Extensive experience with Windows‑based word processing and spreadsheet software (Word, Excel). Proficiency in complex, menu‑driven programs.
Licenses, Certifications, Registrations
Engineer‑in‑Training registration required where applicable.
"A" level Water Certification exam required within 24 months of hire.
"C" level Water Certification exam required within 12 months of hire.
Valid South Carolina Driver's License required.
Training Needs
OSHA and departmental safety training as required.
Skills‑Based Training.
ISO 14001 standards for department and company.
See Department Competency and Training Matrix for this position.
Qualifications
Strong leadership skills (preferred).
Good oral and written communication skills.
Experience in experimental design and statistical process control (preferred).
Dependable and conscientious work record.
Proven ability to present technical concepts to regulatory boards and non‑technical stakeholders.
Eligibility for Promotion Plant Engineer. Promotion opportunities vary and are not guaranteed.
Additional Information Safety Sensitive Position: Yes. Subject to substance abuse policy testing as per CWS Substance Abuse Policy and Procedures.
Language Skills Professional proficiency in reading, writing, and communicating complex information.
Safety and Environmental Responsibilities Job duties require specific knowledge and application of CWS Environmental Management System (EMS) policies, procedures, and instructions.
Mission, Vision & Core Values Our Mission: Support public health and protect the environment.
Our Vision: Achieve excellence and exceed customer expectations.
Core Values: Continuous pursuit of excellence, Customer Service, Open and honest communication, Accountability, Teamwork, Ethical behavior and integrity.
Charleston Water System is an at‑will, drug‑free, equal opportunity employer.
#J-18808-Ljbffr