Industrial Water Resource Engineer

Empirical Foods, Inc. is seeking an Industrial Water Resource Engineer in Garden City, KS. The role involves managing water resources, ensuring compliance with regulations, and leading projects related to water and wastewater systems. Responsibilities include developing operating practices, conducting audits, and collaborating on technology evaluations. Candidates should have knowledge of water treatment processes and strong problem-solving skills. This position requires physical presence in a manufacturing environment.
Overview

Join our multidisciplinary engineering team as an Industrial Water Resource Engineer, where you'll play a growing role in ensuring sustainable water management across our multi-site operations. You'll build your skills to support and eventually lead the complete lifecycle of water and wastewater systems—from initial design strategy through deployment and continuous improvement—while supporting our mission to produce high-quality food safely and efficiently.

Responsibilities

Water Stewardship & Industrial Water System Management
• Support comprehensive water resource management, covering potable water intake through wastewater discharge.
• Assist in developing and maintaining operating practices for water and wastewater systems across all sites.
• Help oversee water quality specifications and implement preferred water technologies for manufacturing processes.
• Support water conditioning, utility systems, and company wastewater treatment infrastructure.

Regulatory Compliance & Quality Assurance
• Help ensure full compliance with local, state, and federal water regulations.
• Collaborate on permitting requirements, conduct audits, and oversee sampling programs.
• Maintain accurate data tracking and regulatory documentation.

Project Leadership & Technical Consultation
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to evaluate water and glycol technologies.
• Support and contribute to new process deployments and scale-up projects.
• Support construction and remodel projects to ensure water system compliance.
• Help develop specifications, evaluate vendors, and make informed purchasing decisions.

Analysis & Innovation
• Perform technical assessments, design calculations, and data analysis.
• Collaborate and implement water reuse projects from concept to commercialization.
• Create process flow diagrams, P&ID, mass balances, and technical documentation.
• Participate in bench testing and pilot development programs.

Additional
• Ability to perform all essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Must have regular and punctual attendance.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Skills and Abilities
• Foundational knowledge of water treatment processes and/or system design, including: coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, membrane filtration, biological treatment, and disinfection systems.
• Understanding of industrial wastewater pretreatment and primary treatment methods.
• Ability to develop and document operating practices for water treatment systems.
• Microsoft Office Suite, and understanding of HMI/SCADA systems, proficiency in 2D & 3D Cad Software is a plus.
• Ability to read technical drawings; electrical schematics is a plus.

Demonstrated Competencies
• Strong interpersonal skills and eagerness to learn.
• Basic understanding of environmental regulations in industrial settings.
• Solid problem-solving and organizational abilities.
• Effective communication skills across all organizational levels.
• Proven ability to present technical information clearly and concisely.
• Commitment to continuous learning and team development.

Physical Requirements
• This role is based in a manufacturing environment and requires flexibility to work various hours, including weekends when needed. You'll be part of a collaborative team environment focused on continuous improvement and innovation.
• Position will be required to travel to multiple facilities as needed.

Experience: Entry level position ideal for recent graduates or candidates with 1-3 years experience in water systems, environmental, civil or structural engineering, or industrial operations.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field preferred. Equivalent practical experience will be considered.Department: Engineering