Project Engineer in Washington

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.

Our aim is simple – to provide the most effective solutions and products on the market and thus, exceed clients expectations through market-leading technology. From technical through to commercial and management expertise, we have the in-house expertise to execute a range of projects from the most basic to highly complex.

Location: Washington – Tyne and Wear – Mobilising across the N.East

AFECO is an engineering services provider, delivering high quality process and MEICA design and installation projects predominantly across the South of England and Midlands for the water industry. We have excellent inhouse engineering teams capable of delivering all stages of the project cycle, from concept through to commissioning, with a strong focus on process led innovative and robust yet appropriate solutions.

We have a portfolio of varied projects covering both wastewater and clean water projects for planned and reactive projects. Due to the expansion within the region of NWL and the N.East, we are currently recruiting for a pro-active, hands on, Project Engineer to work within our multi-disciplinary teams. This is a great opportunity for enthusiastic individuals who fit in with our company values and are keen to develop in a forward-thinking organisation.

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

• 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 engineering drawings, P&IDs, and technical documents for accuracy and compliance.
• Provide engineering input on process, mechanical, electrical, or civil elements (depending on project scope).
• 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 escalate 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 Tier 1 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

• Car Allowance
• Medicash plan
• Life insurance
• Benefits portal
• Company pension
• 26 days holiday (plus bank holidays)

At AFECO, we value our employee’s and encourage and support them to development themselves and their career through training and progression. We offer the opportunity to work on a range of project types and size in the water sector including our own internally developed products and solutions. We are a privately owned business with a friendly and open culture and are dedicated to creating and maintaining a workforce that is highly skilled and motivated. 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.

Join us at AFECO and be part of our mission to deliver innovative and sustainable solutions to the complex infrastructure needs of the UK.