Engineer, Principal - Modeling Engineer

Overview

The Engineer Principal Modeling Engineer will support the Water Distribution team with hydraulic modeling functions for capital improvement projects, system planning, and analytical support. The selected candidate must be proficient with Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and hydraulic modeling software such as Autodesk InfoWater Pro (or equivalent) and possess strong technical knowledge of American Water Works Association (AWWA) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) best practices and standards related to water distribution systems.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Develop, calibrate, and maintain the hydraulic model of the water distribution system using Autodesk InfoWater Pro.

Perform scenario assessments to evaluate future growth and water demand projections.

Support system planning for planned or emergency shutdowns and coordinate with projects.

Assist with capital planning and provide project support for distribution renewal, loop closures, and related projects.

Contribute to condition assessments of the water distribution system to address low pressure issues, deficiencies, and resiliency improvements.

Perform other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelors degree in mechanical or civil engineering (or related field) from an ABET-accredited university.

Five (5) years of professional engineering experience.

Preferred Qualifications

Five (5) or more years of experience in water distribution hydraulic modeling.

At least three (3) years of GIS experience.

Professional Engineer (PE) license in Virginia.

Eight (8) years of experience using Autodesk InfoWater Pro or other hydraulic modeling software.

Five (5) years of experience with municipal water distribution systems.

Strong background in fluid mechanics, system integrity, utility risk management, AWWA, and NFPA standards.

Licensing, Certifications, and Other Special Requirements

Some assignments may require a valid Drivers License with a satisfactory driving record and the ability to obtain a valid state license within 30 days of hire.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of water distribution systems and operations.

Familiarity with AWWA and NFPA best practices.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to recommend cost-effective solutions.

Ability to align engineering tasks with broader business objectives.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, capable of explaining technical information to diverse audiences.

Experience presenting to public groups, management, regulators, and field teams preferred.

Strong organizational and project management skills to meet deadlines.

Strategic and critical thinking abilities.

Detail orientation and strong communication skills.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Requirements

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. Employees are encouraged to discuss accommodation needs as appropriate.

Environmental Hazards and Working Conditions

Work may involve travel to various locations.

Possible exposure to mechanical parts, electrical currents, vibrations, fumes, odors, dust, gases, poor ventilation, inadequate lighting, intense noise, or disruptive environments.

Physical Requirements

Ability to manage detailed work across multiple, concurrent tasks with frequent interruptions and deadlines.

Regular activities include typing, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motions of hands and wrists.

Frequent standing, walking, and handling materials.

Occasional climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, pushing, pulling, and lifting.

Classified as sedentary work : exerting up to 10 pounds occasionally and a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to move objects.