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Principal Wastewater Process Engineer - Job Opportunity at GHD

Manchester, United Kingdom
Full-time
Senior
Posted: February 27, 2025
Hybrid
GBP 75,000 - 95,000 per year based on location and experience level, with additional benefits through employee ownership structure

Benefits

Competitive professional development through GHD Business School
Enhanced leave package above statutory minimum
Flexible working arrangements with family-friendly policies
Employee ownership structure offering profit sharing potential
Career advancement opportunities within global operations

Key Responsibilities

Lead complex wastewater treatment design projects with full technical oversight and accountability
Drive technical excellence through review and validation of critical process designs and documentation
Mentor and develop junior engineers while building high-performing technical teams
Establish and maintain strategic client relationships to secure ongoing business
Coordinate cross-functional teams to deliver integrated engineering solutions
Provide expert consultation on construction phase technical challenges

Requirements

Education

Bachelor's and/or Master's degree in Chemical or Environmental Engineering (or equivalent)

Experience

Minimum 10 years industry experience

Required Skills

UK municipal wastewater processes expertise Biological treatment processes knowledge Tertiary treatment systems design Chemical dosing systems Biosolids management Process control systems BioWin modeling Primary treatment design Nutrient removal systems Communication and team leadership Client relationship management Independent problem-solving

Certifications

Chartered Engineer with IChemE, CIWEM, or equivalent
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

The wastewater treatment sector is experiencing increased focus on nutrient removal and recovery technologies due to tightening environmental regulations and circular economy initiatives Digital twin technology and advanced process simulation tools like BioWin are becoming industry standards for optimization and predictive maintenance Rising energy costs are driving innovation in energy-efficient treatment processes and biogas recovery systems

Role Significance

Likely leading a technical team of 5-8 engineers while coordinating with cross-functional teams of 15-20 members across projects
Principal level position with significant technical authority and client-facing responsibilities, typically representing 15+ years of specialized experience

Key Projects

Large-scale municipal wastewater treatment plant upgrades Advanced nutrient removal system implementations Biosolids management facility designs Treatment process optimization programs

Success Factors

Deep technical expertise combined with strong client relationship management skills Ability to balance multiple complex projects while mentoring junior staff Strong understanding of UK water industry regulations and future trends Experience with digital engineering tools and modern process simulation software

Market Demand

High demand driven by infrastructure modernization requirements, environmental regulations, and shortage of experienced process engineers in the water sector

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Process engineering expertise specifically in biological treatment and nutrient removal Project leadership and client relationship management Technical review and quality assurance capabilities

Beneficial Skills

Digital twin technology experience Energy optimization expertise Sustainability and circular economy knowledge Advanced modeling and simulation skills

Unique Aspects

Employee ownership structure offering direct stake in company success
Strong focus on digital engineering and innovation in traditional water sector
Emphasis on sustainability and environmental stewardship in project delivery

Career Growth

2-4 years in role before progression to technical director or practice leadership positions, depending on business growth and personal development

Potential Next Roles

Technical Director Water/Wastewater Practice Leader Regional Engineering Manager Principal Technical Consultant

Company Overview

GHD

GHD is a global professional services company operating in the markets of water, energy and resources, environment, property and buildings, and transportation

Top-tier engineering consultancy with strong presence in water/wastewater sector, competing with firms like Jacobs and AECOM
Significant UK operations with strong local market share in water industry projects
Employee-owned business model promoting high engagement and long-term commitment, with emphasis on technical excellence and professional development
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