A water engineer undertakes a wide range of technical and non-technical duties in their role of supplying, managing and maintaining clean water and sewerage/waste water services and preventing flood damage.
Job description
Water engineers work on projects such as flood defence schemes and sewer improvement programmes at all stages of their development and implementation.
Work activities
- Coming up with designs – initial outlines or full plans.
- Presenting project details and technical information to other professionals and clients.
- Liaising with contractors, clients, government agencies, local authorities and suppliers.
- Ensuring that deadlines are met.
- Using specialist simulation software and computer applications.
- Monitoring flood levels.
- Managing project budgets and ensuring projects keep to budgets.
- Supervising workers on site.
Work conditions
Travel: regular site visits are part of the job; some positions may involve trips overseas.
Working hours: are typically long, particularly on site visits.
Entry requirements
A primary degree in a subject such as geology, geography, mechanical/civil engineering, geophysics or environmental sciences is necessary. Postgraduate qualifications are generally favourable and may aid career development.
To become a chartered engineer an accredited level 8 or 9 qualification and four years’ postgraduate training and experience to standards prescribed by Engineers Ireland is required.
Further information
The Water and Environment Society is a special interest group for environmental engineers. Membership is open to members of Engineers Ireland.
