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Wastewater Treatment Process Engineer

GFT.
Chicago, IL Full Time
POSTED ON 5/18/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 5/5/2027

GFT is seeking a Wastewater Treatment Process Engineer to join our Water team! This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring regular attendance at one of our many offices. 

 

What you’ll be challenged to do: 

In this role you will lead and support design of wastewater treatment through evaluation of existing processes and facilities; treatment assessments; design of improvements, expansions, and new facilities; permitting; and construction administration. Responsibilities will include conducting site visits, completing treatment studies and developing treatment process recommendations, preparing reports and design documents, and supporting permitting efforts.

 

In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following:

  • System Design:Lead and support the planning and process evaluation of wastewater processes, including biological nutrient removal, sludge handling, and filtration processes.
  • Process Optimization:Conduct site visits and investigations; analyze influent wastewater characteristics, facility design, and operating data to assess treatment performance; and provide recommendations for treatment and process improvements.
  • Studies and Evaluation:Plan and execute bench, pilot, and full-scale studies to meet project goals; assess test results and facility operating data to develop process recommendations; and preparation of required reports.
  • Technical:Function as a technical specialist in the areas of conventional and advanced wastewater treatment. Use processes such as physical/chemical primary treatment, conventional activated sludge, biological nutrient removal, fixed-film processes, membrane bio-reactors (MBR), sidestream treatment, tertiary filtration, auxiliary wet-weather treatment, and disinfection

What you will bring to our firm: 

  • BS in Civil, Environmental, Chemical Engineering (MS is preferred)
  • Professional Engineer Licensed required (PE) or the ability to obtain in 6-12 months
  • 4 years of experience required in wastewater treatment discipline, particularly as a wastewater engineer involved with planning and/or process evaluation of wastewater treatment facilities
  • Expert knowledge in standard engineering techniques and procedures.
  • EPC project experience preferred; design and construction of wastewater treatment facilities, including three or more years leading process design of wastewater projects with full responsibility for the budget, schedule, contractual obligations, client service, and quality standards preferred.
  • Demonstrated experience and knowledge in preliminary treatment, primary treatment, biological treatment (including BNR), disinfection, hydraulics, and solids processing and handling preferred.
  • Successful track record leading wastewater process and plant facilities projects background and the willingness to take on new challenges.

What we prefer:

  • Experience with biological modeling software such as BioWin, GPS-X, and Sumo.
  • Experience working directly with Environmental Regulators (i,e. NJDEP, PADEP, MDE, NYDOH etc). 
Compensation:The salary range for this role is $80,000 - $180,000. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.  Featured Benefits: • Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment.• Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.• Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan.• Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual.• Tuition reimbursement for continued education.• Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations• Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

 

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships – that’s why we’re the employer of choice for 5,000 of the industry’s brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.

 

Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century’s experience, together we’re building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives.GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives™ is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans’ status or other characteristics protected by law.

 

Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property GFT.

 

GFT does require the successful completion of a criminal background check for all advertised positions. 

 

Location: Chicago or Schaumburg, ILCore Business Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PMEmployment Status: Full-Time

 

#LI-SS1

#LI-Hybrid

Salary : $80,000 - $180,000

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