Materials Engineer

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