The Materials Engineer evaluates materials to ensure conformance to predetermined standards. The Engineer plans and performs physical and non-destructive testing of materials and goods used by WSSC Water. Responsibilities include performing evaluations of new materials and new brands of previously approved types of materials; accepting or rejecting materials used by WSSC Water; develops, maintains, and reviews technical and non-technical specifications for a wide variety of materials purchased by or intended for use in WSSC Water’s infrastructure; coordinates with local and federal regulations entities to ensure compliance and conformance; performs technical engineering related to materials evaluation and problem solving; maintains and reviews various WSSC Water documents and drawings; reviews manufacturers’, vendors’, and contractors’ submittals for conformance to Commission standards and contractual agreements; serves as a material engineering resource and participates in Commission’s Materials Evaluation Committee. They collaborate with Civil Engineering teams to ensure adherence to purchasing and standard specifications; work closely with Materials Specialists and Planners; maintain a professional, harmonious working atmosphere conducive to meeting section goals and providing quality customer service.
Essential Functions
•Evaluates and oversees evaluation of vendor submittal samples for compliance with WSSC Water specifications and for functionality and utility
•Conducts and oversees the failure analyses of materials
•Develops, identifies, monitors, and reviews test methods used to evaluate materials for compliance to specifications
•Reviews and approves manufacturers’ repair and installation procedures
•Develops, interprets, analyzes and/or modifies materials specifications
•Updates and maintains technical documents and drawings
•Serves as the liaison for internal and external stakeholders and suppliers on issues related to specifications and performance requirements for materials
•Meets with materials manufacturers to discuss manufacturing processes, product design, materials specifications, and acceptance and rejection criteria
•Provides training to staff on new materials usage and availability
•Performs field research on the suitability of new or old materials, equipment, or supplies with the intent of developing cost-effective improvements
Other Functions
Performs related duties as assigned
Work Environment And Physical Demands
Work is performed in an office environment and field sites
Required Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities
•Thorough knowledge of the principles, practices, and methods of materials engineering analysis and design; ability to perform engineering reviews, analyses, and calculations
•Thorough knowledge in specialized engineering disciplines, such as corrosion and metallurgy, necessary to ensure quality in materials used by WSSC Water
•Thorough knowledge of pertinent products and materials used in the Commission infrastructure such as piping, coatings, cathodic protection, steel and welding materials, valves, and concrete structures
•Thorough knowledge of inspection methods, techniques, and industrial processes required to ensure product quality
•Thorough knowledge of Commission computer systems and software (including Microsoft Office Suite) required to perform the job
•Good knowledge of public procurement and contract law and practices
•Ability to exercise discretion in contract administration
•Ability to conduct studies related to materials management, analyze the results, and develop sound recommendations
•Ability to gain thorough knowledge of and ability to interpret WSSC Water requirements, specifications, applicable national standards, and manufacturing information
•Ability to develop and interpret specifications, technical drawings, and plans, as well as the ability to ensure compliance with these documents
•Good knowledge of national standards specifying water and sewer system construction and maintenance materials
•Thorough knowledge of tolerances and accuracies of measuring instruments and proficiency with same in determining material compliance
•Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with material manufacturers and suppliers, construction contractors, and WSSC Water personnel
•General knowledge of auditing practices related to quality control
•Ability to communicate well in verbal and written form
Minimum Education, Experience Requirements
•Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related discipline
•7 years of progressively responsible experience in materials engineering or a related field