Project Engineer in Washington

About us: As part of the United Infrastructure Group, we are a dynamic and innovative specialist engineering services, solutions and products provider focused on servicing our clients’ immediate and future needs. We do this through the development of industry‑changing cleantech products as well as through engineering delivery excellence. We specialise in the design and delivery of process, mechanical, electrical and ICA engineering‑based projects, products and solutions. Regardless of the project, they all pursue the same goal: to improve the efficiency and sustainability of our water, wastewater and waste treatment.

We have a team of highly skilled and experienced professionals with extensive consulting and contracting experience, including engineers, scientists and commercial managers. Our knowledge and expertise spans more than 30 years, across industries including: water, wastewater, marine, energy and power sectors. At AFECO, we cover all stages of the innovation and project delivery cycle from concept through to operations.

Role overview: The Project Engineer will play a key role in delivering water‑sector infrastructure projects from design through to commissioning. Working closely with project managers, designers, contractors, and client representatives, the Project Engineer ensures technical quality, regulatory compliance and efficient execution across clean water, wastewater and treatment‑related works.

Key Responsibilities

• Project Delivery Support: end‑to‑end project lifecycle, including feasibility, detailed design, procurement, construction and commissioning.
• Translate project requirements into technical specifications and engineering solutions.
• Assist in the development of project plans, schedules and cost estimates.
• Coordinate with contractors and suppliers, ensuring timely delivery of materials and services.
• Technical Engineering Review: review engineering drawings, P&IDs and technical documents for accuracy and compliance; provide engineering input on process, mechanical, electrical or civil elements; conduct site surveys, assessments and technical investigations; support development of risk assessments, method statements (RAMS) and design risk registers.
• Quality, Compliance & Safety: ensure all project activities comply with water industry standards, regulatory requirements (e.g., DWI, EA) and health & safety legislation (e.g., CDM); conduct quality checks, inspections and documentation reviews; support environmental and sustainability objectives associated with water projects.
• Stakeholder Management: liaise with internal teams, clients, statutory authorities and subcontractors; support progress meetings, prepare status reports and escalated risks and issues; communicate technical information effectively to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
• Commissioning & Handover: support commissioning activities, FAT/SAT processes and performance testing; ensure full documentation is delivered, including O&M manuals, as‑built drawings, asset data and training materials; assist in project close‑out and lessons‑learned reviews.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Previous experience in the water sector (clean water, wastewater, pumping stations, networks or treatment works).
• Strong understanding of water‑industry standards, regulations and common project delivery frameworks.
• Proficiency in interpreting engineering drawings and specifications.
• Strong organisational, analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work across multiple projects and manage time effectively.
• Competent in MS Office; familiarity with project management tools (MS Project) advantageous.

Desirable Qualifications & Knowledge

• Degree or HNC/HND in Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical or Process) or equivalent experience.
• Experience working with major water utilities or Tier1 contractors.
• Knowledge of AMP cycles, TOTEX thinking and water‑industry asset standards.
• Understanding of process engineering related to water and wastewater treatment.
• CSCS, EUSR, SMSTS/SSSTS or relevant safety certifications.
• Experience with digital tools (BIM, SCADA interfaces, CAD, modelling software).

Personal Attributes

• Strong communicator with the ability to collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams.
• Proactive, detail‑oriented and solution‑driven.
• Able to work independently and take ownership of tasks.
• Commitment to safety, sustainability and continuous improvement.

Working Conditions

Based at treatment works, pumping stations or regional sites. Includes site visits, climbing ladders, confined space areas (with training). Participation in standby/rota call‑out system may be required. Outdoor work in varying weather conditions.

Salary and Benefits

Salary and benefits include Car Allowance, Medicash plan, Life insurance, Benefits portal, Company pension and 26 days holiday (plus bank holidays).

Equal Opportunities

As a Company we are committed to equal opportunities for all and do not discriminate on the grounds of race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, sex, disability or age.