Senior Wastewater Process Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Wastewater Process Design Manager

Company: Parametrix, Inc.

Location: Seattle, WA, US; Spokane, WA, US; Bremerton, WA, US; Portland, OR, US; Puyallup, WA, US

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Water & Wastewater Engineering Operations

Date Posted: 2025-07-11T18:08:00

Experience Level: 10+ Years

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and development of water and wastewater treatment processes, encompassing biological and advanced treatment technologies, with a strong emphasis on project delivery oversight.

• Manage the full lifecycle of wastewater and water projects during the design phase, ensuring adherence to technical specifications, regulatory compliance, quality standards, and client expectations.

• Drive project success through effective project management, including scope definition, budget control, scheduling, task delegation, and deadline adherence.

• Foster team growth and collaboration by leading multidisciplinary engineering and design teams, providing technical mentorship, and coordinating with various disciplines and external partners.

• Engage actively with clients to understand their needs, provide project updates, resolve challenges, and lead client workshops, establishing strong professional relationships.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is in "Water & Wastewater Engineering Operations," the core functions align with a senior project management and technical leadership role within an operations-focused engineering firm. The emphasis on process design, project delivery, and client management positions this as a critical operational role for infrastructure projects.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee the design and development of advanced wastewater treatment processes, including biological nutrient removal, membrane bioreactors (MBRs), and advanced oxidation processes.

• Serve as the Engineer of Record for preliminary engineering studies, planning documents, and detailed design packages, with a primary focus on wastewater treatment facilities.

• Conduct and validate process modeling using tools like BioWIN, alongside hydraulic modeling and comprehensive cost estimating for treatment facilities.

• Manage project scopes, budgets, and schedules for the design phase of complex water and wastewater infrastructure projects, ensuring timely and within-budget delivery.

• Lead and mentor multidisciplinary project teams, including civil, mechanical, electrical, and structural engineers, as well as designers, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.

• Coordinate project execution with internal teams and external teaming partners to ensure seamless project delivery and client satisfaction.

• Develop clear and concise project documentation, including plans, drawings, and specifications, adhering to rigorous quality assurance and control procedures.

• Engage in client interaction, including leading and participating in client workshops, understanding project requirements, and presenting technical solutions.

• Provide technical guidance and support during the construction phase, addressing site queries, reviewing submittals, and ensuring design intent is met.

• Contribute to business development efforts by supporting proposal development, client presentations, and identifying opportunities for new projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical expertise in wastewater treatment processes and robust project management skills. The expectation to serve as an Engineer of Record and lead client workshops indicates a senior-level role with significant responsibility and client-facing duties.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in municipal water and wastewater treatment planning, design, and construction support services.

Required Skills:

• Professional Engineering (PE) License in Washington State or the ability to obtain one promptly.

• Expertise in wastewater treatment processes, including biological treatment, nutrient removal, disinfection, and solids handling.

• Proficiency in process modeling software such as BioWIN, or similar wastewater process simulation tools.

• Strong understanding of hydraulic modeling principles and software applications relevant to water/wastewater systems.

• Demonstrated ability in comprehensive cost estimating for infrastructure projects, including treatment facilities.

• Excellent project management skills, including scope definition, scheduling, budgeting, resource allocation, and risk management.

• Proven ability to lead and mentor multidisciplinary engineering teams, fostering collaboration and professional development.

• Strong client interaction and communication skills, with experience in leading client workshops and presentations.

• Familiarity with design software tools commonly used in the water industry, including Revit and Civil 3D.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with mechanical process piping design.

• Familiarity with advanced wastewater treatment technologies, such as MBRs, advanced oxidation processes, and resource recovery.

• Experience with public sector clients and understanding of municipal procurement processes.

• Knowledge of construction management principles and practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a PE license and extensive experience underscores the senior and responsible nature of this role. The specific software proficiencies (BioWIN, Revit, Civil 3D) are critical technical requirements for candidates in this specialized engineering operations field.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase at least two significant wastewater treatment design projects where you played a lead role, detailing the process selection, design challenges, and final treatment effectiveness.

• Include examples of process design reports, preliminary engineering studies, and master plans that demonstrate your analytical and planning capabilities.

• Present evidence of project management success, such as project timelines, budget adherence reports, or scope management strategies for water/wastewater projects.

• Demonstrate experience with client engagement via case studies of successful client interactions, workshop facilitation, or collaborative problem-solving sessions.

Process Documentation:

• Document your approach to process modeling and hydraulic analysis, including typical methodologies, input parameters, and output interpretation for wastewater treatment systems.

• Illustrate your project management framework, detailing how you manage scope, schedule, budget, and risks for complex engineering projects.

• Outline your strategy for leading and coordinating multidisciplinary design teams, including communication protocols and quality assurance processes.

• Provide examples of how you integrate client feedback and regulatory requirements into the design process to ensure successful project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating hands-on experience with wastewater process design, project leadership, and client management is crucial. The emphasis on process documentation highlights the need for candidates to articulate their methodologies and systematic approaches to engineering operations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $130,000 - $200,000 annually (Depending on Qualifications)

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Healthcare: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans to support employee well-being.

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): Direct share in the company's success as a 100% employee-owned firm.

• Performance-Based Bonuses: Eligibility for bonuses tied to individual and company performance.

• 401(k) Plan: Retirement savings plan with company contributions.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrual of both vacation and sick/wellness time for work-life balance.

• Paid Holidays: Company-recognized paid holidays.

• Parental Bonding Leave: Support for new parents.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours expected, with flexibility offered through a hybrid work environment. The specific number of hours per week is typically 40, but the company emphasizes work-life balance and may accommodate flexible scheduling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for a Senior Process Design Manager role in the specified regions. The comprehensive benefits package, particularly the ESOP, reflects the company's commitment to employee ownership and long-term engagement, which is a significant draw for professionals in engineering operations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering Consulting Services, Environmental Services, Infrastructure Development. Parametrix operates within the vital sector of public infrastructure, focusing on water and wastewater treatment solutions that are critical for community health and environmental sustainability. Their work directly impacts the quality of life and environmental health of the regions they serve.

Company Size: 100% Employee-Owned. This structure fosters a strong sense of shared responsibility, collaboration, and commitment to company success. It means every employee has a stake in the business's performance and culture.

Founded: Parametrix was founded to deliver engineering services that improve communities. As an employee-owned firm, its longevity and growth are driven by the collective efforts and shared vision of its team members.

Team Structure:

• The Water Team is a core division within Parametrix, comprising specialized engineers, scientists, and planners focused on water and wastewater infrastructure.

• This role will likely report to a Principal Engineer, Director of Water Services, or a similar senior leadership position within the Water Business Unit.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using process modeling and hydraulic analysis to inform design decisions and optimize treatment performance.

• Collaborative Planning: A strong focus on working with clients and internal teams to develop integrated and effective solutions.

• Quality Assurance: Adherence to rigorous internal quality control processes and industry best practices to ensure project excellence.

• Client-Centric Approach: Prioritizing client needs and feedback throughout the project lifecycle to build lasting partnerships.

Company Website: https://www.parametrix.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Parametrix's employee-ownership model is a significant cultural differentiator. It suggests a collaborative, team-oriented environment where employees are invested in each other's success and the company's overall performance. The focus on resilient infrastructure and sustainable solutions aligns with forward-thinking engineering operations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is classified as a Senior Manager, indicating a leadership role with significant technical, project management, and client relationship responsibilities. It is a key contributor to the Water Business Unit's operational success and strategic growth.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Wastewater Process Design Manager will likely report to a senior leader within the Water Business Unit, such as a Director or Principal. They will, in turn, lead and mentor project engineers and design staff.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on the successful delivery of critical infrastructure projects that ensure public health and environmental protection. The manager’s expertise in process design and project management directly influences project quality, client satisfaction, and the firm's reputation and profitability in the water sector.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in emerging wastewater treatment technologies, process optimization, and advanced modeling techniques.

• Leadership Development: Advance into leadership roles such as Practice Lead, Business Unit Manager, or Principal within the Water sector.

• Client Relationship Management: Expand client portfolios and take on business development responsibilities, including leading client pursuits.

• Mentorship and Training: Develop leadership and training skills by mentoring junior engineers and contributing to internal knowledge sharing programs.

• Strategic Contribution: Influence the strategic direction of the Water Business Unit, contributing to service offerings, market expansion, and innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior Manager" title in this context signifies a significant step in an engineering operations career, moving beyond pure technical contribution to leadership, client management, and business development. The employee-ownership model further enhances growth potential by aligning individual success with company performance.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Parametrix offers hybrid work environments. This means employees have the flexibility to work from home or a company office, balancing remote work with in-person collaboration.

Office Location(s): The primary focus for this role is Western Washington and Oregon, with specific mention of Seattle, Spokane, Bremerton, Puyallup, and Portland. The company is open to exceptional candidates outside these areas who are committed to travel.

Workspace Context:

• Hybrid Flexibility: The hybrid model supports work-life balance, allowing for focused work at home and collaborative engagement at the office or client sites.

• Collaborative Spaces: Offices are designed to facilitate teamwork, meetings, and knowledge sharing among engineers and project teams.

• Technology Enabled: Access to standard office technology, high-performance computing for modeling and design software, and collaborative platforms to support remote and in-office work.

• Client-Facing Engagement: Opportunities to work from client offices or project sites as needed for meetings, site visits, and project coordination.

Work Schedule:

• Standard business hours are expected, typically around 40 hours per week. The hybrid arrangement allows for flexibility in structuring the workday, provided project deadlines and client needs are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "hybrid work environment" is a key feature. For operations roles, this often translates to flexibility in managing personal time while ensuring project deliverables and team collaboration remain paramount. The need for travel underscores the importance of client engagement in this sector.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a hiring manager will review applications and resumes to assess basic qualifications and fit.

• Technical Interview: A discussion with senior members of the Water Team to evaluate technical expertise in wastewater process design, modeling, and project management. Expect questions related to past projects, problem-solving approaches, and technical challenges.

• Portfolio Review: Candidates will be asked to present and discuss their portfolio, highlighting key projects, their specific contributions, design methodologies, and outcomes. This is a critical step to assess practical experience and communication skills.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with potential team members and leadership to assess collaboration style, leadership approach, and alignment with Parametrix's employee-owned culture.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive or principal to discuss strategic contributions, business development potential, and overall fit within the firm.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by showcasing specific skill sets (e.g., process design, project management, client interaction).

• Highlight Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, your specific role, the methodologies used (especially process modeling and design), and the quantifiable results or benefits achieved.

• Process Focus: Emphasize your systematic approach to design, problem-solving, and project execution. Explain your decision-making process for process selection and optimization.

• Visual Aids: Use clear diagrams, flowcharts, and graphics to illustrate complex processes and project scopes.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to succinctly explain each project within a reasonable timeframe, focusing on the most relevant achievements for this role.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for hypothetical scenario questions related to project challenges, team conflicts, or client issues.

• Prepare to discuss your approach to managing demanding project schedules or tight budgets.

• Consider how you would tackle a complex wastewater treatment design problem, from initial concept to detailed design.

• Anticipate questions about leadership, mentorship, and fostering a positive team environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is a critical component for this role. Candidates should prepare to articulate their design philosophy, project management strategies, and the tangible impact of their work with specific examples and data. This is where demonstrable operational excellence is assessed.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Process Modeling: BioWIN (or similar, e.g., GPS-X, WEST) for simulating biological wastewater treatment processes.

• Hydraulic Modeling: Software like EPANET, InfoWater, or similar for analyzing water distribution and wastewater collection systems.

• CAD/Design Software: Revit and Civil 3D for creating engineering drawings, plans, and specifications.

• Project Management Software: Tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar for scheduling and resource management.

• Cost Estimating Software: Specialized tools or spreadsheets for developing project cost estimates.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Microsoft Excel (advanced functions, pivot tables), potentially SQL for data extraction, and BI tools like Tableau or Power BI for reporting on project performance and metrics.

• Reporting Platforms: Standard office suites for creating technical reports, proposals, and presentations.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not explicitly mentioned, familiarity with CRM systems for client management and business development tracking would be beneficial.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with platforms for organizing and sharing project documentation.

• Collaboration Tools: Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for team communication and file sharing.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in specialized engineering design and modeling software (BioWIN, Revit, Civil 3D) is non-negotiable. Strong project management and data analysis skills are also essential for effective operations in this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Delivery: Commitment to high-quality engineering, meticulous design, and successful project outcomes, reflecting a dedication to operational rigor.

• Client Focus: Prioritizing client needs, building trust, and delivering exceptional service through responsive communication and tailored solutions.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Valuing collective effort, open communication, and mutual support among team members, essential for complex project execution.

• Innovation and Continuous Improvement: Encouraging creative problem-solving and the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to enhance service delivery and project effectiveness.

• Employee Ownership: Embracing the principles of employee ownership, fostering accountability, shared success, and a strong sense of community.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively working with diverse engineering disciplines (civil, mechanical, electrical, structural) and support staff to achieve integrated project solutions.

• Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing: Proactively sharing expertise, mentoring junior staff, and contributing to a culture of learning and development within the team.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Effectively communicating with internal stakeholders, clients, regulatory agencies, and other project partners to ensure alignment and project progress.

• Feedback-Oriented: Open to giving and receiving constructive feedback to foster continuous improvement in processes and project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values emphasize a blend of technical excellence, client service, and a strong team-oriented culture, all underpinned by the unique aspect of employee ownership. This suggests a work environment where individual contributions are recognized within a collective framework.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Complex Regulations: Staying current with evolving environmental regulations and ensuring designs meet stringent compliance standards.

• Managing Diverse Project Portfolios: Balancing the demands of multiple projects simultaneously, each with unique technical requirements, client expectations, and timelines.

• Technical Problem Solving: Addressing complex design challenges in wastewater treatment, requiring innovative solutions and deep technical understanding.

• Adapting to New Technologies: Integrating new process technologies and digital tools into design workflows to enhance efficiency and performance.

• Client Expectations Management: Effectively communicating technical details and project progress to clients, managing expectations, and resolving any potential conflicts.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Process Technologies: Gaining expertise in cutting-edge wastewater treatment methods and sustainable infrastructure solutions.

• Project Management Excellence: Enhancing skills in large-scale project management, contract negotiation, and risk mitigation.

• Business Development and Client Management: Developing capabilities in client engagement, proposal writing, and securing new projects.

• Leadership and Mentorship: Cultivating leadership skills through formal training, mentorship programs, and leading project teams.

• Industry Conferences and Certifications: Opportunities to attend industry-leading conferences, workshops, and pursue relevant professional certifications to stay at the forefront of the field.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities for significant professional growth by tackling complex engineering challenges and expanding leadership and business development capabilities within the critical water infrastructure sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Process Design Philosophy: "Describe your approach to selecting and designing wastewater treatment processes. How do you balance efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and regulatory compliance?" Prepare to discuss specific methodologies and decision-making criteria.

• Project Management Approach: "Walk us through how you manage a complex wastewater treatment design project from initiation to completion. What are your key strategies for scope, schedule, and budget control?" Have examples ready to illustrate your project management framework.

• Team Leadership and Mentorship: "How do you lead and motivate a multidisciplinary engineering team? Describe a time you mentored a junior engineer and the impact it had." Be ready to share specific examples of your leadership style and mentorship approach.

• Client Engagement: "Describe your experience leading client workshops or presenting technical solutions to clients. How do you ensure client satisfaction and build strong relationships?" Prepare case studies of successful client interactions.

• Problem-Solving: "Discuss a significant technical challenge you encountered in a wastewater treatment project and how you overcame it. What was the outcome?" Focus on your analytical skills and innovative solutions.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Employee Ownership: "What does employee ownership mean to you, and how do you see it influencing your role and contributions at Parametrix?" Research Parametrix's ESOP model and articulate your understanding and appreciation for it.

• Hybrid Work Environment: "How do you ensure effective collaboration and productivity within a hybrid work setting?" Be prepared to discuss strategies for maintaining team cohesion and communication.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Project Selection: Choose 2-3 of your most impactful wastewater treatment design projects that best showcase your process design, project management, and leadership skills.

• Narrative: For each project, structure your presentation with a clear problem statement, your role and responsibilities, the technical approach (including modeling and design details), challenges faced, solutions implemented, and quantifiable results (e.g., performance improvements, cost savings, compliance achieved).

• Visuals: Use clear and concise visuals (diagrams, flowcharts, key drawings) to illustrate the processes and project scope.

• Conciseness and Clarity: Practice presenting your portfolio efficiently, focusing on key achievements and demonstrating your ability to communicate complex technical information effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only technical prowess but also leadership, project management acumen, and alignment with Parametrix's employee-owned culture. The portfolio presentation is a critical opportunity to showcase practical application of skills.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Wastewater Process Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided ADP link, ensuring all required fields are completed accurately.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your most relevant experience in wastewater process design, project leadership, and client management, directly addressing the requirements outlined in the job description.

• Resume Optimization: Quantify your achievements whenever possible. For example, instead of "Managed projects," state "Managed X wastewater treatment design projects with an average budget of $Y million, consistently delivering on time and within budget."

• Portfolio Preparation: Assemble a digital portfolio that includes case studies of your key wastewater treatment design projects, showcasing process selection, modeling expertise (BioWIN), design deliverables (plans, specs), project management success, and client interaction examples. Ensure it's easily accessible for review.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Parametrix, focusing on their Water Business Unit, recent projects, company culture, and commitment to employee ownership. Understand their values and how your experience aligns with their mission.

• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your portfolio in detail and practice answering common interview questions related to technical expertise, project management, leadership, and client relations.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.