Engineer

Engineers are essential to safeguarding Hawaiʻi’s limited freshwater resources and protecting its fragile ecosystems. From designing decentralized wastewater systems for rural and shoreline communities to creating resilient infrastructure that withstands climate impacts like sea level rise and flooding. Engineers play a critical role in providing clean, safe water. They are a broad category of workers who design and implement the industrial processes that make water treatment possible. They may work on a large or small scale and may work individually or cooperate with sizeable teams. Engineers often assume varied duties on their jobs. Sometimes, they estimate costs or develop specifications. Other times, they prepare drawings and schematics, design large scale operation systems, or do in-depth research on topics such as environmental impact. heir work ranges from small-scale decentralized systems for rural communities to large-scale wastewater treatment plant upgrades.

Education & Training

This position typically requires:

A Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Environmental, or Mechanical Engineering. Many positions require a Professional Engineer (PE) license, especially for supervisory or project lead roles. Some engineers pursue a Master’s degree or certifications in areas like sustainability, hydrology, or coastal engineering. In Hawaiʻi, early career experience with agencies (e.g., Department of Health, Board of Water Supply, or county public works) or local firms is highly valued. Experience with Native Hawaiian engagement and culturally sensitive design is a growing asset.

In Hawaiʻi, you can study at:

  • University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (UH Mānoa)

  • University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo

    • Offers a BA in Environmental Science (less engineering-specific, but useful for water-focused career paths).

    • Website: https://hilo.hawaii.edu

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Knowledge of:

  • Engineering principles, terminology, and best practices,

  • Computer-aided design (CAD) software,

  • Water and wastewater treatment processes,

  • State and federal environmental regulations and permitting requirements,

  • Pre-construction assessments and field evaluations,

  • Hazardous material handling and chemical safety (e.g., chlorine, asbestos),

  • Sustainable design and cost-saving strategies,

  • Cultural sensitivity, environmental stewardship, and local permitting processes (e.g., CZM, SMA permits).

Skill in:

  • Designing water and wastewater systems tailored to island environments,

  • Inspecting facilities and ensuring regulatory compliance,

  • Providing technical support to operators and technicians,

  • Communicating complex information to stakeholders, agencies, and the public,

  • Coordinating with community members on culturally sensitive projects,

  • Managing project budgets and timelines.

Ability to:

  • Implement safety protocols and sustainable engineering solutions,

  • Supervise teams and collaborate across disciplines,

  • Adapt designs to changing climate conditions and sea level rise,

  • Build trust and maintain strong relationships with community partners and regulatory agencies,

  • Travel between islands and to rural sites as needed.

Scholarships

Still to come.