The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties, locations, and responsibilities performed by incumbent(s) in this job. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties in this description, and incumbent(s) may be required to perform work-related tasks other than those specifically listed in this description. This job description is not a “contract” between the employee and the Authority. The job duties and essential functions may be changed at the discretion of the General Manager.
Job Title: Program Manager, Research Job Code: P0304
New or Revised: Revised Regular or At-Will: At-Will
Date Last Revised: 4/9/2025 Exempt or Non-Exempt: Exempt
Compensation Approval Signature: Union/ Non-Union: Non-Union
Department Name and Division: CW&T-Central Administration Salary Schedule: Non-Union Salary Range
Cost Center Code: 810600 Grade: NU17
Essential Position: No Reports To: Manager, Research and Development
EEO Code: Professionals Work Format In-Person
Who We Are & What We Do:
At DC Water, we provide more than 700,000 District of Columbia residents and 24.6 million annual visitors with essential water, wastewater, and stormwater services. DC Water also provides wholesale wastewater treatment services for 1.8 million people in Montgomery and Prince George's counties in Maryland, and Fairfax and Loudoun counties in Virginia. We aspire to be known for superior service, ingenuity, and stewardship to advance the health and well-being of our diverse workforce and communities. To achieve this vision, we commit to our shared mission every day—exceeding expectations by providing high quality water services in a safe, environmentally friendly, and efficient manner.
Provides supervisory research support for the Blue Plains Wastewater Treatment Plant research and development program; evaluates the effectiveness and efficiency of all treatment processes and develops concepts for piloting or demonstration of new processes or optimization of existing processes. Maintains leadership of state-of-the-art engineering technology and industry practices; conducts process studies and evaluates new products, processes, and techniques used in wastewater treatment processes; develops feasibility proposals for internal or external funding.
Performs other duties and projects assigned at the discretion of the Manager, Research and Development.
*Key Working Relationships: Interacts with co-workers throughout the Authority, other government and private agencies, university professors, vendors, consultants and contractors.
The qualifications listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and ability necessary for an individual to perform each essential responsibility satisfactorily. Reasonable amounts of training are provided.
At least one (1) year of experience should include project or program management duties associated with process research or similar function.
Extensive process knowledge, including how each unit process fits into overall wastewater treatment process and ability to recommend and implement strategies to enhance quality, productivity, and cost-effectiveness.
Knowledge of occupational hazards and the necessity for adherence to safety precautions; Knowledge of applicable regulations, such as EPA and OSHA requirements.
Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering, Environmental Science, or related field from an accredited college or university and (5) years of progressive experience related to research of wastewater treatment processes or biosolids technologies.
Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills. Mastery of advanced concepts, principles, and practices of environmental engineering and ability to apply them on a practical level..
Knowledge of conventional methods and techniques used in engineering, chemical, and biological applications.
Excellent human relations and communication skills, including listening, reading, oral and written communication skills;
Ability to control wastewater treatment processes using digital systems
Ability to organize, prioritize, schedule, complete, and follow-up on work activities so that activities are completed within time and budget constraints
Ability to use computer applications, such as MS Office, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and Teams
Although most work is performed under general office conditions, this position is subject to the following in the course of evaluating unit processes, construction and modifications within the facility:
Exposure to a variety of hazards such as high voltage, noise, chemicals, oils and other solvents, bacteria, pathogens and toxic substances.
A doctoral degree in Environmental Science or Environmental Engineering or related field is strongly preferred.
The work environment characteristics described in the physical requirements section of the required skills & qualifications table are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential responsibilities.*
At DC Water, our people make us an industry leader. Join a group of thinkers, innovators, and problem solvers focused on protecting life’s most precious resource in the nation’s capital.
We are proud to be an EEO/AA employer M/F/D/V.
We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing
The Americans with Disabilities Act prohibits discrimination against “qualified individuals with disabilities”.
If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to
perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please